Laundering Money from Controlled Substance Violations
When individuals obtain funds from controlled substance distribution, they often channel the money through alternative methods in an attempt to make it difficult for authorities to trace its source. This act, referred to as “money laundering,” is illegal and may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor of a felony, depending on the defendant’s criminal history and the details of the case. If you’re involved in a money laundering case, it’s important to contact a skilled federal drug defense attorney as soon as possible. He or she will review the details of your case and help you derive a unique approach to your defense, putting you on track to receive a favorable outcome.
The Grabel & Associates team has been handling cases involving controlled substance violations and money laundering from over 15 years, and has the skills needed to earn you a fair verdict. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide you with a free initial case consultation. Just call our toll-free hotline to learn more about our services and to get connected with an attorney.
What is Money Laundering?
There are three major elements of Money Laundering. In order to be convicted of the crime, a prosecutor has to show you are guilty of all three. The elements of Money Laundering consist of the following:
- You obtained money or property with monetary value that you knew originated from a controlled substance offense.
- You obtained the money or property with intent to hide its source, control, or ownership.
- The total amount of money you obtained was great than twenty-five thousand dollars within a 30-day period.
If your attorney can disprove one of the three elements, you may be able to get off with minor penalties. Your lawyer will use his or her knowledge of the law and your case to develop a defense strategy that will earn you the best available results.
The Penalties for Laundering Money in Michigan
The punishments associated with money laundering vary depending on the severity of your crime. If you’re charged with a misdemeanor, penalties may include up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to one thousand dollars. If you’re charged with a felony, the punishments increase. You could face up to four years in state prison and a fine of up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars, or twice the amount laundered (whichever is greater). Your lawyer will fight to dismiss all charges, or have your crime charged as a misdemeanor, lessening the negative effects on your future.
If you are charged with laundering money from controlled substance violations, your attorney may consider using one of the following defenses:
- You did not obtain the money and engage in the transaction in order to hide its source or ownership.
- The police handled your case unjustly or did not have a valid search warrant when they discovered the information that led to your charges.
- The money did not come from a drug offense or the amount did not exceed twenty five thousand dollars.
Our Approach to Money Laundering Cases
The Grabel & Associates team has many years of experience handling cases involving both money laundering and controlled substances. If you’re being charged with laundering money from controlled substance violations, we can help you fight back and avoid potentially life-altering penalties. We will aggressively defend you, regardless of the details of your case, and are willing to devote ample time and energy to developing your defense. Give our team a call today to learn more about our services and get on track to being successful in your criminal case.
Contact Us for 24/7 Criminal Defense in Michigan
It’s never too early to start building your case. Whether you’re facing criminal charged or merely suspect you are under investigation, call 1-800-342-7896 toll-free to speak with an experienced case analyst who will provide you with unrivaled legal advice. Taking the right steps at the beginning of your case is the best way to avoid felony charges and the harsh penalties that accompany them. Pick up your phone and contact the Grabel & Associates team today to start protecting your future.