Many people are unaware of the intricate nature of federal criminal money laundering cases, which can manifest in various forms. The complexity of these cases often leads to confusion, especially when trying to decipher the legal jargon. This lack of understanding can leave individuals bewildered when they find themselves arrested or indicted for money laundering.

The issue is that you essentially have proceeds, money, or a credit line—whatever the case may be—something of value or benefit, and it's obtained illegally. That's the first thing the government has to prove. Where did you get those funds? Where did you get that money? Is it lawfully obtained?

Because if it's lawfully obtained, then what's the issue or problem?  So, the first thing they must prove to get you for a money laundering case at the federal level is that whatever money, funds, or credit line was illegally obtained.

Once they prove that, they have to show — so that you understand the concept — that you're trying to clean that money.  In other words, let's say someone has a vast drug enterprise and is generating thousands of dollars from it.

They want to inject that money into a business, so they start putting it into it. They start running the money through the business's financial accounts or into the business itself. Then, they take money from the company or build it up with ill-gotten gains.

Attempting to “Clean” Money Through a Business Account

That's money laundering. It involves someone taking funds from an illegal enterprise, depositing them into a business account, and attempting to launder the money. This is probably one of the most simplistic examples.

That's just one example.  There are numerous examples of money being transferred through an account, and this also occurs at the international level, where people are moving money.  It's at the domestic level; someone can be charged with federal money laundering in both scenarios. For instance, purchasing high-value assets with unexplained funds, using shell companies to hide the source of money, or engaging in complex financial transactions can also be considered money laundering.

If you find yourself charged with federal money laundering and are struggling to comprehend your alleged offense, it's imperative that you seek the counsel of a federal criminal defense attorney without delay. Their expertise is crucial in navigating the complexities of your case. The sooner you act, the more proactive and in control you'll feel.

Sometimes, you can't figure out what you've done wrong because you haven't done anything wrong. If that's the circumstance—if the money you're receiving is not illegally obtained—that would be the first form of defense to block a federal money laundering allegation.

So, start with the end in mind.  Start with either 'I did something wrong, and I need to figure out how to fix it,' or 'I didn't do anything wrong, and I need to figure out how to prove that. '  And you have to huddle up with your attorney.

You need to provide him with your version of the events, as law enforcement may require some time to gather your account of what happened. Once your version of events is out there, you're in a position to win your case.

Sometimes, in a money laundering case, presenting your version of the events can help mitigate the charges. Sometimes, once you get a good attorney who knows your story and can begin helping you get the result you must have, you can negotiate with the government on different levels that you wouldn't have even thought of.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid?

If you or a loved one is charged with money laundering, you want to ensure that you don't do anything that could put you in a worse position. One example would be cooperating with the authorities. That's a common mistake I often see people make. They'll meet with the government, discuss their concerns, and address all their questions.  

They'll provide them with documentation.  Usually, what government agents are doing is just gathering evidence against you to make sure they have an air-tight prosecution against you.  

So, please refrain from cooperating with the authorities when they're investigating you or you've been charged with money laundering.  What you should do immediately is hire an attorney.  Let that attorney speak on your behalf.  Let that attorney decide what, if any, cooperation you are going to give.  Let the attorney handle the interactions with the agents and prosecutors.  

One common mistake individuals make when charged with money laundering is underestimating the severity of their situation and attempting to handle it alone. This can lead to unfavorable outcomes. It is crucial to understand the gravity of your circumstances. Money laundering charges can result in significant fines, imprisonment, and a tarnished reputation. Seeking legal representation immediately is the best course of action to mitigate these consequences.

Another common mistake I see people make is doing nothing. They bury their heads in the sand. They know they're being investigated or arrested, but they don't take any action. They go on with their lives without taking any preemptive moves to help themselves.

What I have you do is come in.  We review the entire case and begin designing a plan to help you and put you in the best possible position.  Once you realize what you're up against, once you know what you can do to help your attorney and what your attorney is going to do to try to put you in the best position, then you'll feel more at ease because you'll know you're doing everything you can to defend yourself in your federal criminal case.

If you or a loved one is charged with money laundering, it's imperative to hire a lawyer immediately. To ensure the best possible defense, you must provide your attorney with a comprehensive and detailed account of the events. Your attorney will use this information to advise and represent you effectively, handle interactions with the authorities, and negotiate on your behalf. This will give you control over your defense and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

As a federal criminal defense attorney with a track record dating back to the early 1990s, I've handled numerous money laundering cases. When facing federal money laundering charges, it's crucial to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney, such as myself, who has been defending individuals for many years, rather than a former prosecutor.  If you or a loved one is accused of money laundering at the federal level, pick up the phone now and ask for a meeting with Ron Hedding.