Maryland Defense of Federal Money Laundering Charges
Sending money out of the country and back, or investing or transferring money between businesses in a manner that confuses its origin, creates a risk that a transfer will be interpreted by the U.S. government as "money laundering," sometimes referred to as "hawala."
If you believe you are being investigated by law enforcement and could be facing charges of federal money laundering, you have been subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury, or have actually had charges filed against you, contact me, Baltimore criminal defense attorney Isaac Klein.
Because money laundering usually involves transferring money across state or national borders, it is most often prosecuted at the federal, not the state level. These allegations are often included as part of a larger case with other criminal charges that could possibly include drug trafficking, embezzlement, wire fraud, mail fraud and conspiracies involving other parties.
Many times charges arise from situations where an agent or informant set someone up (entrap). The defendant has done very little, maybe just a phone conversation. Nevertheless, these actions can result in very serious charges as part of a conspiracy.
Financial crimes typically involve complicated issues of accounting, financing and computer forensics. I have more than 25 years of experience handling state and federal criminal cases in Maryland. My knowledge of changing case law, scientific developments, and federal sentence guidelines is an asset to my clients.
Money Laundering: Lower Sentence than Co-Defendants
Federal criminal cases are particularly time-consuming to defend. The feds put extensive resources into investigating these cases, often conducting months or even years of investigation. This can include wiretaps or audio and/or video recordings. In such cases, my thorough preparation and an in-depth understanding of federal sentencing guidelines may help my clients get reduced sentences in court by way of variances or departures or have a stronger position from which to plea bargain.
In one recent money laundering case, my client and his co-defendants were all convicted of money laundering. However, because of arguments I made at sentencing for departures from the sentencing guidelines, my client received the second lowest prison sentence.
Contact Isaac Klein, Attorney at Law
The earlier you involve a lawyer in your case, the better the lawyer can prepare, which may provide more options for your defense.
If you have been arrested on federal money laundering charges or if you believe you are being investigated for money laundering, contact my Baltimore, Maryland law office to schedule a free and confidential consultation. I am here to be a strong advocate at your side as you move through the criminal justice system — put me on your team. Call me at 410-727-4880.
