Fort Worth Money Laundering Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Against Money Laundering Charges in Texas 

At The Alband Law Firm, we understand the complexities and seriousness of money laundering charges in Fort Worth, Texas. Our legal team is dedicated to providing aggressive and strategic defense for individuals facing allegations related to money laundering. We possess the knowledge and expertise to navigate the intricate legal landscape surrounding money laundering laws, protecting our client's rights and guiding them through the legal process with skill and confidence. 

Call The Alband Law Firm today at (817) 997-4366 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our money laundering attorney in Fort Worth!

What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering refers to concealing the origins of illegally obtained money by passing it through a complex sequence of banking transfers or commercial transactions.

Proving money laundering in Texas, as in any jurisdiction, requires establishing certain elements and presenting evidence that demonstrates the commission of the crime. Money laundering cases can be complex, involving intricate financial transactions and multiple layers of concealment. To prove money laundering in Texas, the following elements generally need to be established:

• Financial Transaction: The prosecution must demonstrate the existence of a financial transaction involving funds or assets derived from illegal activity. This can include bank transfers, wire transfers, purchases, investments, or any other movement of money or assets.
• Knowledge of Illegality: The prosecution must show that the defendant knew or had reason to know that the funds or assets involved in the financial transaction were derived from illegal activities. This knowledge element is essential in proving the intent to launder money.
• Intent to Conceal or Promote Illegitimate Activity: The prosecution needs to establish that the defendant's purpose in engaging in the financial transaction was to conceal the true source of the funds or assets or to promote the underlying illegal activity. This intent to hide the illegal origins of the money is a crucial aspect of money laundering.
• Financial Gain: Money laundering often involves attempts to legitimize illicit funds or assets for personal or financial gain. The prosecution may need to demonstrate that the defendant intended to benefit from the laundered money or assets somehow.

Money Laundering Penalties in Texas

Money laundering in Texas is a serious offense that can result in significant penalties. The penalties for money laundering can vary depending on the money involved and the case's specific circumstances. Generally, money laundering is prosecuted under state and federal laws so that penalties can be imposed at both levels.

Under the Texas Penal Code, money laundering is a felony offense. The penalties for money laundering in Texas are as follows:

• If the value of the funds involved in the offense is $2,500 or more but less than $30,000, it is a state jail felony. State jail felonies are punishable by confinement in a state jail for a term ranging from 180 days to 2 years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
• If the value of the funds involved in the offense is $30,000 or more but less than $150,000, it is a third-degree felony. Third-degree felonies carry a punishment of imprisonment for a term ranging from 2 to 10 years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
• If the value of the funds involved in the offense is $150,000 or more but less than $300,000, it is a second-degree felony. Second-degree felonies are punishable by imprisonment ranging from 2 to 20 years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
• If the value of the funds involved in the offense is $300,000, it is a first-degree felony. First-degree felonies carry a punishment of imprisonment for a term ranging from 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000.

Additionally, it's important to note that money laundering can be prosecuted at the federal level under various federal statutes, such as the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and the Money Laundering Control Act (MLCA). Federal penalties for money laundering can be more severe and include substantial fines and longer prison sentences.

Defenses Against Money Laundering Charges

Building a strong defense against money laundering charges requires meticulously examining the case's facts. While every case is unique, potential defenses may include:

• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the accused lacked the intent to commit money laundering can be a viable defense. This may involve proving that the individual was unaware of the illicit origins of the funds.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence is crucial to any defense strategy. Our legal team will meticulously review the evidence against you, looking for weaknesses or inconsistencies that could cast doubt on the charges.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement conducted an unlawful search or seizure violating your Fourth Amendment rights, we may be able to challenge the admissibility of evidence obtained through such means.
• Coerced Confessions: If your confession was obtained through coercion or without proper Miranda warnings, it may be possible to have it excluded from evidence.

Crafting a tailored defense requires an in-depth understanding of your case's legal landscape and specifics. At The Alband Law Firm, our attorney has the experience to explore all available defenses and vigorously advocate for your rights.

Contact Our Fort Worth Money Laundering Attorney Today  

Facing money laundering charges is daunting, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Our team is dedicated to providing solid legal representation to individuals facing money laundering allegations in Fort Worth, Texas. We leverage our knowledge and experience to build strategic defenses tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. 

Contact The Alband Law Firm today to schedule a meeting with our money laundering lawyer in Fort Worth!