Money in soapy water representing money washing aka money laundering. If you've been accused of money laundering in Illinois, you NEED a money laundering attorney in your corner.

Aggressive Money Laundering Attorney

 

If you have been accused or charged with money laundering in Illinois, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. The earlier you retain legal counsel, the better your chance of de-escalating the situation. Money laundering is when money has been obtained through illegal actions while also trying to claim that it was earned legitimately.

An example of money laundering would be someone who obtained money by selling illegal drugs and filtering it through a real business such as a convenience store. The burden of proof is on the prosecution, which means they have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed an illegal activity.

 

To Convict for Money Laundering, the Prosecution Must Prove Three Elements

 

  1. A financial transaction needs to be made or attempted to be made. This can consist of paying a utility bill, purchasing at a store, or depositing money into the bank.

  2. The money known to be derived from illegal sources is used in this transaction.

  3. Intentional concealment of the illegitimate source of money 

The good news is that the prosecution must prove that these three elements exist without reasonable doubt. This can be challenging to prove. Hirsch Law Group knows how to poke holes in the prosecution’s case.

 

Sentences for Laundering Money

 

  • Value of $10,000 or less – Class 3 Felony – 2-5 years in prison

  • Value of $10,000 – $100,000 – Class 2 Felony – 3-7 years in prison

  • Value of $100,000 – $500,000 – Class 1 Felony – 4-15 years in prison

 

Defenses of Money Laundering Charges

 

1. The Defendant Believed They Were in Danger

One possible defense for money laundering is that the defendant had a reasonable belief they were in danger and needed to move the funds quickly. For example, if someone was being threatened by a drug cartel and had to transfer large sums of money to protect their family, this could be considered a legitimate reason for “laundering” money.

2. No Intent 

For a money laundering charge to stick, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally concealed the illegal source of their funds. This defense could be used if there was no intent to conceal or deceive. For example, a person may have accidentally deposited drug money into their business account without realizing it and had no intention of hiding its source.

3. No Illegitimate Funds Used 

The prosecution must also prove that the funds used in the financial transaction were derived from illegal criminal activity. If it can be proven that the money was earned through legal means, such as a legitimate business, then there is no basis for a money laundering charge.

3. Not Enough Evidence to Prosecute

In some cases, the prosecution may not have enough evidence to prove all three elements of money laundering beyond a reasonable doubt. In these situations, a skilled Chicago money laundering defense attorney can negotiate for reduced charges or even have the case dismissed altogether.

4. Mistake of Law

Sometimes, a defendant may not have known their actions were considered money laundering under the law. This is known as a mistake of law defense and can be used if it can be proven that the defendant was not aware of the laws surrounding money laundering crimes.

 

Contact Hirsch Law Group Today for Expert Money Laundering Defense

 

Do not take accusations of money laundering lightly. The penalties for a conviction can be severe and have long-lasting consequences on your future.

Contact Hirsch Law Group today for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of successfully defending clients against criminal charges. We will thoroughly evaluate your case and develop a strong defense strategy to protect your rights and freedom.

Do not wait. Act now and secure the best legal representation for your case.