Federal Money Laundering Lawyer

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., our federal defense team provides strategic representation for individuals and organizations facing money laundering allegations in New York and across the United States. With decades of combined experience handling complex financial crime cases, we understand the intricate nature of federal money laundering investigations and prosecutions. Contact us today for immediate assistance.

Penalties of Being Convicted of Federal Money Laundering

As a money laundering lawyer at Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we know that federal money laundering convictions carry severe penalties that can impact every aspect of your life. Understanding these potential consequences is crucial for anyone facing such charges.

• Imprisonment Terms: Federal money laundering under 18 U.S.C. § 1956 carries up to 20 years per count, while § 1957 violations can result in up to 10 years per transaction.
• Financial Penalties: Fines can reach $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transactions, whichever is greater.
• Asset Forfeiture: The government can seize any property involved in or traceable to money laundering activities, including bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, and businesses.
• Professional License Impact: Conviction typically results in the suspension or revocation of professional licenses, affecting careers in finance, law, medicine, and other regulated industries.
• Business Operations: Corporate defendants face mandatory compliance programs, independent monitors, and potential debarment from government contracts.
• Banking Restrictions: Convicted individuals often face severe limitations on their ability to maintain bank accounts or conduct financial transactions.
• Immigration Consequences: Non-citizen defendants may face deportation, as money laundering is considered an aggravated felony under immigration law.
• Civil Liability: Beyond criminal penalties, defendants may face parallel civil proceedings and lawsuits from affected parties.
• Reputational Damage: Convictions become public record, potentially affecting future employment, housing, and business opportunities.
• Supervised Release: After imprisonment, defendants typically face 3-5 years of supervised release with strict financial monitoring and reporting requirements.

As your money laundering attorney, we understand these severe consequences and work diligently to develop strong defense strategies aimed at minimizing or avoiding these penalties. Early intervention by experienced defense counsel is crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.

How a Federal Money Laundering Lawyer Can Help

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., our federal defense team offers comprehensive support throughout money laundering investigations and prosecutions. As your money laundering lawyer, we provide strategic representation at every stage of your case.

• Early Case Intervention: We engage with federal investigators and prosecutors before formal charges are filed, potentially preventing indictment through proactive defense strategies and negotiations.
• Evidence Analysis: Our money laundering attorney team conducts thorough reviews of financial records, transaction histories, and electronic communications to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
• Constitutional Protection: We scrutinize law enforcement’s investigation methods to identify potential Fourth Amendment violations and other constitutional issues that could lead to evidence suppression.
• Defense Strategy Development: We create customized defense approaches based on the specific facts of your case, challenging the government’s evidence and presenting alternative explanations for financial transactions.
• Grand Jury Representation: We guide clients through grand jury proceedings, protecting their rights and advising on testimony while working to prevent indictment.
• Asset Protection: We fight against government seizures and forfeitures, working to preserve your assets and maintain business operations during legal proceedings.
• Parallel Proceedings Management: We coordinate defense strategies across multiple venues, including criminal courts, civil proceedings, and regulatory investigations.
• Sentencing Advocacy: If conviction occurs, we develop comprehensive sentencing presentations to minimize penalties and argue for favorable outcomes under federal sentencing guidelines.
• Compliance Program Development: We help implement robust compliance programs that can serve as mitigating factors in negotiations with prosecutors.
• International Coordination: We work with international counsel to address multi-jurisdictional challenges for cases involving cross-border transactions.

As your money laundering lawyer in New York, we understand the complexities of federal prosecutions and the severe consequences of conviction. Contact Konta Georges & Buza P.C. today to discuss how our experienced defense team can protect your rights and freedom.

Types of Money Laundering Offenses

As your money laundering lawyer at Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we regularly defend clients against various types of federal money laundering charges. Understanding these different offenses is crucial for building an effective defense strategy.

• Domestic Money Laundering: Conducting financial transactions with proceeds from specified unlawful activities to either promote criminal activity or conceal the source of funds, violating 18 U.S.C. § 1956(a)(1).
• International Money Laundering: Moving funds across U.S. borders with the intent to promote specified unlawful activities or conceal the source of money, as prohibited under 18 U.S.C. § 1956(a)(2).
• Monetary Transactions: Engaging in transactions exceeding $10,000 using criminally derived property, which violates 18 U.S.C. § 1957 regardless of intent to conceal.
• Structuring Operations: Deliberately breaking down transactions into smaller amounts to evade federal reporting requirements, commonly known as “smurfing.”
• Trade-Based Laundering: Using legitimate international trade transactions to disguise the transfer of value and obscure the true origins of illicit funds.
• Real Estate Laundering: Using property transactions to conceal illegal proceeds through complex purchasing schemes or renovation projects.
• Cryptocurrency Laundering: Utilizing digital currencies and decentralized platforms to obscure the source and movement of illicit funds.
• Shell Company Operations: Creating or using seemingly legitimate businesses without actual operations to move and conceal illegal proceeds.
• Bank Compliance Violations: Failing to maintain adequate anti-money laundering programs or deliberately circumventing reporting requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act.
• Sting Operation Violations: Conducting transactions with funds represented by law enforcement to be proceeds of specified unlawful activities, violating 18 U.S.C. § 1956(a)(3).

As your money laundering attorney, we understand the nuances of each type of offense and how to build effective defenses against these charges. Contact Konta Georges & Buza P.C. immediately if you’re facing any of these allegations. Early intervention by experienced defense counsel is crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.

What Constitutes Federal Money Laundering?

Federal money laundering occurs when someone conducts financial transactions with proceeds from specified unlawful activities (SUAs) to conceal the money’s source or promote further criminal activity. The primary statutes are 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956 and 1957.

Under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, there are three main types of money laundering:

Transaction Money Laundering (§ 1956(a)(1)): When someone conducts a financial transaction knowing the funds came from illegal activity, and either:

• • Intends to promote the illegal activity
  • Intends to evade taxes
  • Knows the transaction is designed to conceal the source of the funds
  • Knows the transaction is designed to avoid reporting requirements

International Money Laundering (§ 1956(a)(2)): When someone moves money into or out of the United States either:

• • • To promote illegal activity
    • To conceal the source of the funds
    • To avoid reporting requirements

Sting Operations (§ 1956(a)(3)): When someone conducts transactions with funds they believe are proceeds of illegal activity (even though they’re actually legal funds used in a sting operation).

Additionally, 18 U.S.C. § 1957 criminalizes knowingly engaging in monetary transactions over $10,000 involving criminally derived property. Unlike § 1956, this statute doesn’t require proof that the defendant intended to conceal the source of the funds or promote illegal activity—simply knowing the funds came from criminal activity is enough.

The law defines “financial transaction” broadly to include:

• Banking activities
• Wire transfers
• Purchase or sale of property
• Vehicle transactions
• Securities dealings
• Cryptocurrency transfers

Signs You’re Being Investigated For Federal Money Laundering

As a money laundering lawyer team at Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we regularly advise clients about potential warning signs of federal investigations. Understanding these indicators can help you seek legal representation early, which is crucial for protecting your rights.

• Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs): Your bank may suddenly close your accounts or restrict services without explanation, often indicating they’ve filed SARs with federal authorities about your transactions.
• Subpoena Notifications: Business partners, banks, or other associates inform you they’ve received federal subpoenas requesting documents related to your financial activities or transactions.
• Increased Surveillance: You notice unusual vehicles parked near your home or business, or detect signs of electronic surveillance such as interference with electronic devices.
• Law Enforcement Contact: Federal agents make unannounced visits to your home, business, or associates requesting “informal” conversations about your financial activities.
• Grand Jury Witness Alerts: Associates inform you they’ve been called to testify before a federal grand jury about your business dealings or financial transactions.
• Document Preservation Notices: You receive formal requests to preserve documents, emails, or other records related to specific transactions or business relationships.
• Bank Record Requests: Multiple financial institutions request detailed explanations for transactions or additional documentation for routine banking activities.
• Asset Inquiries: You discover third parties conducting detailed research into your property holdings, business ownership, or other assets.
• Tax Audit Expansion: What begins as a routine tax audit expands into broader inquiries about sources of income and specific financial transactions.
• Customs Scrutiny: You experience increased scrutiny or delays during international travel, particularly regarding currency or financial documents.

As your money laundering attorney, we emphasize that identifying these signs early allows us to implement proactive defense strategies. If you recognize any of these indicators, contact Konta Georges & Buza P.C. immediately for a confidential consultation to assess your situation and protect your interests.

What To Do After Being Charged for Federal Money Laundering

As your money laundering lawyer at Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we understand that facing federal money laundering charges can be overwhelming. Taking the right steps immediately after being charged is crucial for protecting your rights and building a strong defense.

• Maintain Complete Silence: Do not discuss your case with anyone except your money laundering attorney, as any communications with others can be used against you and aren’t protected by attorney-client privilege.
• Secure Legal Representation: Contact a qualified money laundering lawyer immediately before speaking with federal agents or prosecutors, as early intervention can significantly impact your case outcome.
• Preserve Documents: Maintain all financial records, communications, and other potentially relevant documents, but do not attempt to alter or destroy any materials as this could result in additional charges.
• Document Government Contact: Keep detailed records of any interactions with federal agents, including names, dates, and the nature of conversations or requests.
• Restrict Digital Communications: Cease discussing any aspects of your case through email, text messages, or social media, as these platforms can be monitored and used as evidence.
• Protect Business Operations: Consult with your money laundering attorney about implementing protocols to maintain business operations while protecting against additional legal exposure.
• Asset Protection: Work with legal counsel to understand which assets may be subject to forfeiture and develop legitimate strategies to protect your interests.
• Travel Considerations: Inform your defense team about any planned travel and obtain guidance about potential restrictions, especially regarding international movement.
• Compliance Protocols: Establish strict compliance procedures for ongoing business activities to demonstrate good faith and potentially mitigate penalties.
• Family Protection: Work with your attorney to develop strategies for protecting family members and associates from potential legal exposure or financial impact.

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we provide comprehensive guidance through every step of federal money laundering proceedings. Contact our office immediately to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your defense strategy. Remember, the actions you take immediately after being charged can significantly influence the outcome of your case.

Why You Need a Money Laundering Defense Lawyer

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we understand that facing federal money laundering allegations can be overwhelming. Here’s why having an experienced money laundering lawyer is crucial for protecting your rights and freedom.

• Complex Federal Statutes: A money laundering attorney understands the intricate details of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956 and 1957, ensuring your defense addresses specific statutory elements and leverages relevant case law.
• Strategic Investigation Management: We guide you through federal investigations, managing law enforcement interactions and protecting your constitutional rights during searches, seizures, and questioning.
• Financial Evidence Analysis: Our money laundering lawyer team works with forensic accountants to analyze complex financial records, identifying legitimate transactions and challenging prosecution assumptions.
• Asset Protection: We implement immediate strategies to protect your assets from government seizure and forfeiture, helping maintain your business operations and personal financial stability.
• Multi-Agency Navigation: Federal cases often involve multiple agencies like the FBI, IRS, and FinCEN; experienced defense counsel coordinates responses across all investigating bodies.
• Sentencing Mitigation: If conviction occurs, a money laundering lawyer knows how to navigate federal sentencing guidelines and present compelling arguments for reduced penalties.
• Parallel Proceedings Management: We coordinate defense strategies across criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings, ensuring actions in one arena don’t compromise another.
• International Considerations: For cases involving cross-border transactions, we understand international banking laws and coordinate with foreign counsel when necessary.
• Negotiation Experience: Our money laundering attorney team has established relationships with federal prosecutors, enhancing our ability to negotiate favorable plea agreements or case resolutions.
• Reputation Protection: We develop strategies to minimize the professional and personal impact of money laundering charges, protecting your future opportunities.

Don’t face federal money laundering charges alone. Contact Konta Georges & Buza P.C. today for a confidential consultation. Our experienced defense team will evaluate your case and develop a comprehensive strategy to protect your interests.

Protect Your Rights and Freedom

When facing federal money laundering charges, every moment counts. Our money laundering lawyer team at Konta Georges & Buza P.C. stands ready to defend your interests with strategic, comprehensive representation. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your defense options and take the first step toward protecting your future.

Money Laundering Lawyer FAQs

What distinguishes state from federal money laundering charges?

Federal charges typically involve interstate commerce, international transactions, or federally regulated financial institutions. State charges usually focus on intrastate activities but can be elevated to federal jurisdiction if they cross state lines or involve federal banking systems.

How long does a federal money laundering investigation typically last?

Federal money laundering investigations often span 1-3 years before charges are filed. During this time, investigators gather financial records, conduct surveillance, interview witnesses, and build their case through grand jury proceedings.

Will my business be shut down during a money laundering investigation?

Not automatically. However, federal authorities may freeze accounts or seize assets connected to suspected illegal activities. Our money laundering lawyer team can help maintain business operations while addressing legal challenges.

Can I still access my bank accounts if I’m under investigation?

Access to accounts depends on several factors. While some accounts may remain accessible, others might be frozen through court orders. Having a criminal defense attorney involved early can help protect your access to essential funds.

What if my business unknowingly processed illegal funds?

Intent is a crucial element in money laundering cases. If you can demonstrate that you had no knowledge of the illegal source of funds and had proper compliance programs in place, this could form the basis of a strong defense.

How are cryptocurrency transactions treated in money laundering cases? Federal prosecutors increasingly scrutinize cryptocurrency transactions using sophisticated tracking tools. However, these cases present unique challenges for prosecution, and our defense strategies adapt to address these emerging technologies.

What role do international treaties play in money laundering cases?

International treaties affect evidence gathering, asset seizure, and potential extradition. Our money laundering lawyer team understands how these agreements impact cross-border cases and defense strategies.

Can past financial transactions be used against me?

Federal investigators can examine financial records going back many years. However, the statute of limitations for money laundering charges is typically five years from the date of the transaction.

What happens to my professional licenses during a case?

Professional licenses may be subject to temporary suspension during proceedings. Our white collar crime attorney team works to protect your professional standing while defending against criminal charges.

How do whistleblower claims affect money laundering cases?

Whistleblower allegations often trigger investigations and can provide prosecutors with insider information. Early intervention by defense counsel is crucial to address these claims effectively.