A criminal charge of money laundering is frequently added to other charges by zealous prosecutors seeking to enhance the penalties for a crime. When a charge of money laundering is brought on its own, it may be because the government’s evidence of other crimes is weak or tainted, and this is the one area that can be proven based only on a paper trail.
Reliable, Practiced Experience in Money Laundering Defense
Whether you are facing money laundering charges alone or with other charges, you need a strong defense. Money laundering cases can be heard in either state or federal court, so you need a defense attorney who is experienced in both. At the Law Office of John Freeman, we defend individuals and corporate entities in the Detroit Metro area charged with money laundering and other white-collar offenses in state or federal court. We work with forensic accountants and computer experts when needed to build a strong defense for our clients.
We have handled money laundering charges as part of a wide range of cases that include:
- Narcotics trafficking
- Alien smuggling
- Securities fraud
- Ponzi schemes
Entrust your case to attorney John Freeman, a former prosecutor now turned defense lawyer with more than 30 years of criminal law experience.
Money Laundering and Businesses
Money laundering charges can pose significant challenges for businesses if corporate assets are alleged to have been purchased or obtained through a money laundering scheme. For example, if someone buys a franchise using funds from an illegal enterprise or with the intent to launder money through the business, the feds will investigate whether the franchise owner knew or had reason to know. If they did, they could also face criminal charges. Foreign businesses and security investment opportunities can also raise questions about money laundering.
Degrees of Money Laundering Under Michigan Law
Money laundering offenses are classified into four classes, or degrees, with first-degree offenses being the most serious. The classification in a particular case depends on factors such as the value of the crime’s proceeds, whether the offense involved drugs, and whether the laundering promoted the commission of a crime.
Only fourth-degree money laundering is considered a misdemeanor offense. Third-degree, second-degree, and first-degree offenses are felonies with increasingly serious sentencing guidelines. Conviction on a first-degree money laundering offense, for instance, can result in up to 20 years in jail as well as a fine of $500,000 or more.
Contact a Trial-Tested Attorney Today
For a free initial phone consultation with the Law Office of John Freeman, call 248-250-9950 or contact us online.