Have you recently been accused of money laundering in the state of New York? It’s important to understand, first and foremost, what money laundering is and why this offense carries such harsh legal punishments.
Money laundering is a serious charge that can carry harsh penalties at both the state and federal level. The sooner you hire an attorney to represent you in court, the better your chances will be of beating or, at least, reducing the charges that are being leveled against you.
Money Laundering Is Both a State and Federal Offense
Money laundering is defined as transferring funds that have been taken illegally into legitimate channels, thus "washing" the money to disguise its criminal origins. This can involve concealing the funds obtained by failing to report them when required by law. Money laundering involves a transgression of both New York state and federal laws.
Money laundering can take place through a variety of means. These may include, but will not be limited to, the following methods:
Transferring money from one bank account to another
Wiring money to another party
Depositing money
Withdrawing money
Using this illegally obtained money to extend a loan
Using this money to extend a line of credit
Buying or selling a safety deposit box to hide the illegal money in
Using the illegal money as the basis of a foreign currency exchange
A Federal Offense in New York
Money laundering charges are broken down into several degrees. Money laundering in the service of terrorism is the most serious and carries severe penalties. Other degrees of money laundering are lesser felonies but will still involve serious penalties. Any felony conviction will carry a mandatory term of more than one year in prison.
If money is transported across state lines, it can become a federal case. If the money in question has been transported into the state of New York, then a New York court may have jurisdiction over the matter. If money is transferred from one area of New York to another, the case will be tried in a New York state court.
While we understand that every case and charge is different, our criminal defense attorneys will do all in our power to make sure that you have the best possible chance of beating your charges. We have the knowledge and expertise that comes from over 75 years of experience defending individuals in similar situations. Get in touch with us today for a case evaluation to discuss how we can help you beat your charge.
Contact Foley Griffin at (888) 966-8480 for help defending your rights.