Boca Raton Counterfeit Currency Charges Lawyers
Being charged with counterfeiting currency in Boca Raton can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. As a major financial hub in South Florida, law enforcement in Boca takes financial crimes very seriously. If you or a loved one is facing counterfeit money charges, it’s critical that you understand your rights and options.
This article provides an overview of counterfeit currency laws, typical penalties, and how an experienced criminal defense attorney can help build the strongest case possible. We’ll also highlight key considerations in finding the right lawyer for your specific situation in Boca Raton and Palm Beach County.
Overview of Counterfeiting Currency Laws
Under federal law 18 U.S.C. § 471, it’s illegal to falsely make, alter, or counterfeit currency with the intent to defraud. This includes attempting to pass off fake bills or coins as authentic legal tender. Penalties vary based on the denominations and total face value of counterfeit currency involved.
In South Florida, the U.S. Secret Service often works with local law enforcement agencies like the Boca Raton Police Department to investigate suspected counterfeiting operations. Typical charges can include:
- Possessing tools and equipment to make counterfeit money
- Buying, selling or exchanging fake currency
- Making or possessing counterfeit plates or printing devices
- Transporting and concealing counterfeit bills
Merely unknowingly passing a fake $20 bill at the grocery store likely won’t lead to criminal charges. But intentionally creating or distributing large volumes of high-quality counterfeit currency can result in decades behind bars.
Penalties and Sentencing Guidelines
Like most white collar crimes, punishments for counterfeiting currency in Florida depend heavily on the scope of the alleged criminal operation. Federal sentencing guidelines take into account:
- The total face value of fake currency produced or exchanged
- Number of co-conspirators involved
- Use of sophisticated tools, printing equipment or technology
- Defendant’s prior criminal history
For less than $2,000 in counterfeit bills, first-time offenders may face 0-12 months in prison. But for over $30 million, federal guidelines can recommend up to 25+ years incarceration. Fines up to $250,000 are also common.
Finding the Right Defense Attorney
If you or someone you care about is charged with counterfeiting financial instruments or currency, finding an experienced criminal defense lawyer is absolutely vital. Never attempt to handle these complex cases alone without legal counsel.
Key credentials and focuses to look for include:
- Federal criminal defense expertise – Most counterfeiting cases involve federal laws and law enforcement agencies like the U.S. Secret Service. It’s essential to find a lawyer well-versed in the federal system.
- Financial and cybercrime specialty – Counterfeiting often relies on computers, printers and technology to create fake currency. Look for attorneys with specific experience defending white collar and cybercrime charges.
- Local connections – A lawyer who has practiced for years in the South Florida area and Palm Beach County criminal justice system can better navigate prosecutors, judges and processes.
Building the Strongest Possible Defense
While federal counterfeiting convictions often lead to years behind bars, experienced lawyers can carefully analyze the prosecution’s case for weaknesses. Some potential defenses include:
- Lack of criminal intent – If you unknowingly passed a fake $20 bill, you can argue you lacked any intent to defraud. The prosecution must prove you knowingly tried to use counterfeit currency.
- Not “substantially identical” – Criminal standards require fake currency be very similar to real money. If the quality is extremely poor, an attorney can potentially dispute whether it meets the legal test.
- Entrapment – If law enforcement pushed you into committing a counterfeiting crime you otherwise wouldn’t, a lawyer may be able to claim entrapment.
- Constitutional rights violations – If police lacked reasonable suspicion for a search or seizure, any evidence found may be excluded.
Skilled lawyers, investigators and forensics experts can also scrutinize the prosecution’s physical evidence, witness accounts and police reports to identify inconsistencies or procedural mistakes. One tiny technical error could lead to a dismissal or dropped charges.
Take Immediate Action
If you believe you’re under investigation or have been arrested for counterfeit currency crimes, it’s essential to exercise your right to legal counsel immediately. Avoid making any statements to law enforcement without your defense lawyer present. An experienced attorney can negotiate with prosecutors regarding bail, bond and minimizing charges.
Finding Boca Raton Counterfeiting Defense Lawyers
The criminal defense attorneys at The Federal Criminal Lawyers have extensive experience defending complex federal cases like counterfeiting, money laundering and other financial crimes. Based in Boca Raton and serving clients nationwide, our top-rated lawyers have achieved outstanding case results for over 25 years.
To schedule a free case evaluation with our elite team of former federal prosecutors and US Department of Justice trial attorneys, call (561) 923-1984 or contact us online today. We provide aggressive, insightful representation to clients facing federal investigations across Florida and most major US cities.