Los Angeles Money Laundering Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Against Money Laundering Charges in California 

Financial transactions are a fundamental aspect of daily life in the dynamic and diverse metropolis of Los Angeles. However, some transactions may inadvertently involve elements of money laundering, a severe and complex financial crime. At Stein & Markus, we recognize the significance of addressing money laundering cases in Los Angeles. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to safeguarding your rights and providing strong legal representation.

Call Stein & Markus today at (562) 512-7030 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our money laundering attorney in Los Angeles!

What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering refers to making illegally obtained money appear legitimate or "clean" by channeling it through a complex sequence of banking transfers or commercial transactions. This crime often involves the following key stages:

• Placement: At this initial stage, the illicit funds are introduced into the financial system. This can occur through various means, such as bank deposits, gambling, or purchasing high-value assets.
• Layering: In this phase, the goal is to obscure the origins of the money by creating a complex web of transactions. This may involve transferring funds between different accounts jurisdictions, or even changing the form of the assets.
• Integration: The "cleaned" money is reintroduced into the legitimate economy in the final phase. This could involve investments, purchases of assets, or other financial activities that make the illicit funds indistinguishable from legal income.

Money laundering can be executed through various means, including traditional banking transactions, cryptocurrency, or trade-based activities. The crime can also be associated with other criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, corruption, or tax evasion.

What are the Penalties for Money Laundering in California?

Money laundering is a serious offense in California and carries severe penalties. The penalties can vary depending on the amount of money involved, the sophistication of the laundering scheme, and whether it is linked to other criminal activities. Here is a general overview of the potential penalties:

• Criminal Charges: Money laundering can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, with felonies carrying more severe penalties. Felony convictions can result in substantial fines and imprisonment.
• Fines: Conviction for money laundering can lead to significant fines, often in the thousands or even millions of dollars. The exact amount depends on the value of the laundered funds.
• Imprisonment: For felony money laundering convictions, offenders can face substantial prison sentences, ranging from several years to decades, depending on the circumstances of the case.
• Restitution: Courts may order offenders to pay restitution to the victims or authorities to cover the losses resulting from the money laundering.
• Seizure of Assets: Authorities can seize and forfeit assets involved in or acquired through money laundering, further compounding the financial losses for those convicted.
• Collateral Consequences: A money laundering conviction can have far-reaching collateral consequences, including damage to one's reputation, difficulties securing employment, and restrictions on certain rights and privileges.