Money laundering charges are among the most complex and serious financial crimes prosecuted in Florida. These cases often involve large sums of money, multiple transactions, and detailed investigations by state and federal authorities.
A conviction can mean not only prison time and steep fines, but also permanent damage to your reputation and the loss of your assets. This is where a skilled Cocoa Beach money laundering lawyer comes in.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our criminal defense lawyers are committed to defending clients accused of money laundering with skill, precision, and determination.
If you’re under investigation or facing charges in Cocoa Beach or Brevard County, call our Cocoa Beach white-collar crimes attorneys today at (321) 44-SHARK.
What is Money Laundering?
Money laundering is the process of disguising the origins of illegally obtained money to make it appear legitimate.
Prosecutors typically break it down into three stages:
- Placement — Introducing illicit funds into the financial system (e.g., depositing cash into a bank).
- Layering — Moving the money through complex transactions to obscure its source (e.g., wire transfers, shell companies).
- Integration — Reintroducing the funds as legitimate income (e.g., investments, business revenue).
Common methods used in laundering schemes include structuring deposits to avoid reporting requirements, offshore accounts, cryptocurrency transfers, and front businesses.
Legal Elements of Money Laundering
To convict someone of money laundering, prosecutors must prove certain legal elements:
- Financial transaction — The defendant conducted or attempted to conduct a financial transaction.
- Knowledge or intent — The defendant knew the funds came from unlawful activity or intended to conceal their source.
- Purpose — The transaction was designed to promote illegal activity, conceal funds, or evade reporting/tax obligations (18 U.S.C. § 1956).
In practice, prosecutors often rely heavily on circumstantial evidence to try to show knowledge or intent, which makes building a strong defense essential.
Legal Consequences of Money Laundering
The penalties for money laundering are severe and can include:
- Criminal fines — Often reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Incarceration — Federal convictions can carry up to 20 years in prison.
- Restitution — Courts may order repayment to alleged victims.
- Asset forfeiture — Seizure of property or funds linked to the alleged laundering.
Sentencing can vary depending on the amount laundered, whether organized crime or drug trafficking was involved, and whether the case is prosecuted at the state or federal level. To ensure the best defense against these charges, enlist the help of a knowledgeable Cocoa Beach money laundering lawyer.
Defending Against Money Laundering Charges
Every case is unique, but common defense strategies include:
- Lack of knowledge or intent — Showing the defendant did not know funds came from unlawful activity.
- Insufficient evidence — Challenging the prosecution’s ability to connect the funds to illegal activity.
- Entrapment — Demonstrating that law enforcement induced the alleged crime.
- Violation of rights — Suppressing evidence obtained through unlawful searches, seizures, or surveillance.
Because of the complex paper trails involved in money laundering investigations, detailed analysis of financial records is often key to a strong defense. Call an experienced Cocoa Beach money laundering lawyer today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we know how to fight back against money laundering charges.
Our Cocoa Beach money laundering lawyers:
- Scrutinize financial records and government investigations for errors or overreach.
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence of knowledge or intent.
- Protect your constitutional rights during investigation, interrogation, and trial.
- Develop tailored defense strategies based on your circumstances and goals.
Our Cocoa Beach money laundering lawyers also negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate to reduce charges or penalties, while preparing to take your case to trial if necessary.
Facing Charges? Our Cocoa Beach Money Laundering Lawyers Are Ready to Fight for You
Money laundering charges can jeopardize your freedom, finances, and reputation. But an accusation is not the same as a conviction.
With experienced legal counsel, you can fight back against the allegations, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your future.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we are here to stand by your side. Call our Cocoa Beach money laundering lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a confidential consultation.
