Money Laundering lawyer Near Me
You’re sitting at your desk in Gaithersburg when two federal agents walk in with a warrant. They seize your computer, your business records, and freeze your personal accounts. They tell you they’re investigating money laundering. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland is building a case against you. You need a federal criminal defense lawyer near you who can act immediately and protect your rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients facing money laundering charges in Maryland, Virginia, D.C., New Jersey, and New York. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Defending Against Federal Money Laundering Charges
Federal money laundering prosecutions require a defense that understands both the complex financial transactions at issue and the active tools federal prosecutors deploy. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to these cases, including Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems, which allows for a detailed examination of the government’s financial evidence. A defense may involve challenging the government’s ability to prove that the funds were proceeds of a specified unlawful activity, demonstrating that the defendant lacked the requisite intent to conceal, or showing that the transactions were legitimate business activities.
The firm works to test every element of the government’s case. This can mean filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through flawed warrants, seeking dismissal when the indictment fails to state an offense, or engaging in vigorous pretrial negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys prepare each case for trial, ensuring that the government’s narrative is met with a thorough and well-prepared challenge. Results may vary.
What to Expect During a Federal Money Laundering Case
Federal money laundering investigations are typically led by agencies such as the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, or DEA. The investigative phase can be lengthy, involving subpoenas, search warrants, and sometimes undercover operations. Once charges are filed, the process moves to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland (or the appropriate federal district for your case). The government obtains an indictment from a grand jury, and the defendant appears for an initial appearance and arraignment. The court determines conditions of pretrial release, which may include financial restrictions and travel limitations.
Following arraignment, the discovery phase begins. The defense reviews the government’s evidence and conducts its own investigation. Pretrial motions may challenge the admissibility of evidence or seek to dismiss counts. Throughout this period, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys engage with federal prosecutors to explore resolutions, including plea agreements when appropriate, while simultaneously preparing for trial. If the case proceeds to trial, the government must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. Sentencing, if there is a conviction, occurs after a presentence report and hearing under the advisory federal sentencing guidelines.
Penalties Under Federal Money Laundering Statutes
The principal federal money laundering statute, 18 U.S.C. § 1956, provides that a person convicted of conducting a financial transaction involving the proceeds of unlawful activity, with the intent to promote the unlawful activity or to conceal its nature, faces a maximum of 20 years imprisonment per count. Fines can reach twice the value of the property involved in the transaction. Conspiracy to commit money laundering under 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h) carries the same penalty range as the underlying offense.
Federal sentencing is governed by the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which consider offense characteristics, the defendant’s role, and the amount of money involved. There is no parole in the federal system. Concurrently, the government may seek criminal forfeiture of property tied to the offense. While the maximums are severe, a thorough defense can significantly affect the sentence through guidelines arguments, substantial assistance motions, and mitigating factors. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced since 1997. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinctive advantage in analyzing the intricate financial records that are central to money laundering cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, allowing the firm to serve clients across multiple federal jurisdictions.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys contribute extensive litigation experience to every federal criminal matter. Working collectively, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys handle cases from investigation through trial. The firm’s Maryland location serves clients throughout the state, including those facing charges in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Reach our location for a consultation at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is federal money laundering?
Federal money laundering is the process of conducting a financial transaction with the proceeds of unlawful activity, knowing that the transaction is designed to disguise the nature, source, or ownership of the funds. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, it is a felony offense prosecuted in U.S. District Court. Money laundering can take many forms, from structured cash deposits to complex wire transfers through multiple accounts. Federal prosecutors often charge this offense alongside the underlying crime, such as drug trafficking or fraud.
How does a federal money laundering investigation start?
A federal money laundering investigation often begins when law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI or IRS Criminal Investigation, detect suspicious financial activity through bank reports, undercover operations, or informant tips. Investigators may issue subpoenas, execute search warrants, and freeze assets before charges are filed. If you believe you are under investigation, contact an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the matter with anyone except your lawyer, and preserve all relevant documents.
What should I do if I am contacted by federal agents?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not answer any questions or consent to searches without legal counsel present. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. An experienced attorney can communicate with agents on your behalf and help protect your rights during the investigation.
Can I be charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering?
Yes, under 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h), a person can be charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering without completing the actual laundering transaction. The crime is the agreement itself, and the penalties are the same as for a completed money laundering offense—up to 20 years per count. Federal conspiracy charges do not require an overt act; the government only needs to prove an agreement between two or more people to commit the underlying crime.
How long does a federal money laundering case take?
The timeline varies significantly depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. Federal white-collar investigations can span months before indictment, and the pretrial phase often involves extensive discovery and motions. Cases that go to trial take longer than those resolved by plea. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to move the case forward efficiently while preparing a thorough defense. For guidance on your specific situation, contact the firm at (888) 437-7747.
Will I have to go to prison if convicted of money laundering?
The potential penalties for federal money laundering include imprisonment, but the actual sentence depends on the guidelines calculation, the strength of the government’s case, and the defense’s efforts. Factors such as the amount of money involved, the defendant’s role, and acceptance of responsibility influence the guidelines range. In many cases, a defense centered on lawful source of funds, lack of intent, or procedural challenges can lead to reduced charges or dismissal. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys explore every avenue to seek a favorable outcome, but past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For a full statutory breakdown of federal money laundering laws, see our comprehensive analysis.
For official information, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland.
Maryland Location: 199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850. By appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.