Hiring West Palm Beach Criminal Defense Lawyers for Money Laundering
Money laundering is a serious white collar crime that involves concealing the origins of money obtained through criminal activity. In West Palm Beach, Florida, those accused of money laundering can face severe penalties if convicted, including hefty fines and years in prison. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side is crucial for mounting an effective defense against money laundering charges. This article provides an overview of money laundering laws in Florida, how an attorney can defend against allegations, and tips for hiring the right lawyer for your case in West Palm Beach.
Understanding Florida’s Money Laundering Laws
Florida has strict laws against money laundering under Chapter 896 of the Florida Statutes. The state defines money laundering as knowingly conducting a financial transaction involving proceeds from criminal activity with intent to promote or aid that criminal activity. There are two degrees of money laundering charges in Florida:
- Money Laundering in the First Degree (Felony) – Financial transaction exceeding $100,000 from criminal proceeds.
- Money Laundering in the Second Degree (Felony) – Financial transaction between $20,000 and $100,000 from criminal proceeds.
Penalties increase with the amount of money involved and number of offenses. A first degree felony conviction can result in up to 30 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 or twice the value of the funds. Second degree is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.Prosecutors don’t need to prove that the defendant committed the underlying criminal activity, only that they knowingly conducted a financial transaction with dirty money. Common predicate crimes include drug trafficking, fraud, theft, and embezzlement.
How Lawyers Defend Against Money Laundering Charges
Because money laundering laws are broad, the burden is on the state to prove criminal intent. Skilled criminal defense lawyers will look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and raise reasonable doubt about the defendant’s guilt. Some effective legal defenses include:
- Lack of Knowledge – Argue the defendant did not know the money came from illegal activity. This is common when handling cash businesses.
- No Actual Money Laundering – The financial transactions were legitimate and not aimed at hiding criminal proceeds.
- Entrapment – Law enforcement improperly induced the defendant into committing money laundering.
- Unlawful Search – Evidence was obtained through an illegal search, making it inadmissible in court.
An attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or pretrial diversion programs in exchange for cooperation, restitution, or meeting other conditions.
Tips for Hiring a West Palm Beach Money Laundering Lawyer
When facing money laundering allegations in West Palm Beach, it’s critical to have an experienced Florida criminal defense lawyer on your side. Here are some tips for hiring the right attorney:
- Look for a lawyer with extensive experience defending money laundering and white collar crime cases. Ask about their specific expertise and success record with these complex cases.
- Understand the lawyer’s fees upfront and get fee estimates in writing. Money laundering cases often involve extensive pretrial work.
- Choose a lawyer with experience arguing Fourth Amendment issues and getting evidence suppressed. This can make or break many money laundering cases.
- Select an attorney with relationships with local prosecutors and judges. This can help in negotiating better outcomes for clients pretrial.
- Meet with the lawyer in person when possible to discuss your case details and evaluate their responsiveness. Money laundering cases require close collaboration.
- Ask plenty of questions and make sure you understand the lawyer’s defense strategy. Look for creative approaches to defending you.
- Research client reviews and ratings when available. An attorney with a strong reputation for money laundering defense is ideal.
- Avoid lawyers who guarantee specific outcomes or overpromise. Money laundering cases are highly complex.
Finding Top Money Laundering Defense Lawyers in West Palm Beach
Fortunately, West Palm Beach has many skilled criminal defense attorneys with experience fighting money laundering charges in Palm Beach County courts. Here are a few top-rated local lawyers to consider:
- Ronald S. Chapman, P.A. – Highly rated criminal defense firm helping clients with money laundering and white collar crime charges for over 20 years.
- Frank A. Rubino, Esq. – Prominent attorney with extensive money laundering defense experience and numerous published articles on the topic.
- Grey, Tesh & Grey – Respected legal team achieving outstanding case results for money laundering clients.
- Scott Berry, Esq. – Former state prosecutor now defending money laundering cases with inside knowledge of prosecution tactics.
- Douglas Rudman, Esq. – Tenacious lawyer who aggressively defends those accused of financial crimes.
The consequences for a money laundering conviction can be severe. Building a strong defense requires retaining an experienced local lawyer you trust. Use the guidance above to help find the right criminal defense attorney to represent you in West Palm Beach. With an expert lawyer on your side, you can minimize penalties and protect your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common penalties for money laundering convictions in Florida?
Money laundering sentences in Florida depend on the degree of the felony but can include years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, asset forfeiture, and probation. First degree felonies carry up to 30 years behind bars. Second degree felonies can result in up to 15 years in prison.
What should I do if questioned by police about money laundering?
You have the right to remain silent and should avoid answering questions without your lawyer present. Be polite but clearly state you wish to speak to an attorney before responding to allegations. Anything you say can be used against you.
Can money laundering charges be reduced or dropped?
Yes, an experienced lawyer may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed by challenging the evidence, raising reasonable doubt, pursuing pretrial diversion, or negotiating with the prosecution. Swiftly hiring a lawyer improves the chances of a favorable outcome.
How important are money laundering defense lawyers’ relationships with prosecutors?
It’s extremely beneficial for defense lawyers to have good working relationships with prosecutors. This rapport can help with obtaining better plea deals, pursuing pretrial diversion to avoid convictions, and having charges reduced or dropped.
What average cost range should I expect for a money laundering defense lawyer?
Attorney fees vary based on experience, case complexity, and duration. Still, expect an average range of $5,000 to $20,000+ for skilled representation through trial. Additional costs may include expert witnesses, investigations, and other preparations.
Can I go to jail for money laundering without knowing the money was from illegal activity?
Yes, under Florida law prosecutors only need to prove you knowingly conducted a financial transaction with proceeds from criminal activity. However, a lack of knowledge defense can be effective when properly supported. Consult an attorney.
Are there any money laundering reporting requirements in Florida I should know about?
Yes, Florida requires timely reporting of cash transactions exceeding $10,000 for certain businesses under its Money Laundering Act. Violations can result in criminal charges. An attorney can advise on proper reporting.
What common evidence do prosecutors use to prove money laundering charges?
Prosecutors may use bank records, communications, informants, surveillance, financial statements, and expert forensic accounting testimony to follow the money trail and establish intent. An experienced defense lawyer can challenge this evidence.
Can I negotiate a better outcome by cooperating with prosecutors in a money laundering case?
Potentially, depending on the case specifics. Providing substantial assistance to prosecutors can sometimes lead to reduced charges or sentences. An attorney can advise if cooperation is beneficial or risky. Tread carefully.