Facing money laundering charges in Fort Worth, TX, can be overwhelming and confusing for a defendant, especially with the complex financial evidence often involved in these cases. A conviction for such a serious offense can be life-changing, including heavy fines, prison time, and significant personal or professional setbacks.
If you or a loved one has been accused of money laundering, it’s essential to understand your rights and explore every legal option available.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can walk you through the process when you’re facing these charges in Fort Worth, Texas. Call (682) 777-3336 or contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth money laundering attorney.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help if You’re Arrested for Money Laundering in Fort Worth, Texas
We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with a money laundering charge in Fort Worth, TX. At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, our lawyers have over 60 years of combined experience. Attorneys Pam Boggess and Cody Cofer are Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. We are ready to fight to protect your rights.
Our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys provide the following services to help with your case:
- We thoroughly analyze the evidence against you, including financial records, to identify weaknesses in the case.
- We consult with forensic accountants and other financial experts to break down complicated data in a way that strengthens your defense.
- Negotiating with prosecutors is another step we can take to try to reduce charges or obtain a more lenient sentence.
When facing a charge as serious as money laundering in Fort Worth, Texas, having skilled legal representation in your corner is critical. Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth money laundering attorney.
Overview of Money Laundering in Texas
Money laundering is taking or using money from unlawful sources and trying to disguise it as legitimate business profits. Sometimes the funds pass through fake entities or falsified transactions to appear legal.
Essentially, people use these methods to clean “dirty” funds, making them look like regular income. Each scheme can vary, but the goal is always the same: hiding the true source of the money to avoid detection.
What Are the Penalties For Money Laundering in Fort Worth, Texas?
Texas law determines money laundering penalties based on the amount involved, meaning higher sums bring heavier consequences.
General penalties include:
- Laundering $2,500 to $30,000: This is charged as a state jail felony, carrying six months to two years in jail and fines of up to $10,000.
- Laundering $30,000 to $150,000: This elevates the charge to a third-degree felony, which can lead to prison time of two to 10 years and fines of up to $10,000.
- Laundering $150,000 to $300,000: This is a second-degree felony. Consequences include two to 20 years in prison plus fines up to $10,000.
- Laundering more than $300,000: This falls under a first-degree felony, potentially resulting in five to 99 years or even life in prison, and fines up to $10,000.
Facing these penalties can seriously disrupt your life, making it crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available. Make sure you speak to a criminal defense lawyer as soon a possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Money Laundering?
If you’ve been arrested for money laundering, there are legal defenses available that may help your case. The specific defense you use will depend on the specific details of your situation, but here are some common strategies attorneys can use:
Lack of Intent
One potential defense is proving that you did not knowingly engage in money laundering. The law requires that the prosecution show you had the intent to conceal or disguise illegal funds. If your attorney can show that you didn’t know of the origin of the funds or their use, this could weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
Insufficient Evidence
Another defense is challenging the evidence that the prosecution presents. Money laundering cases are often determined by complex financial data, and errors or gaps in the evidence may exist. Your attorney can scrutinize the evidence to show it doesn’t connect you to the alleged acts, or that it’s too weak to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Duress or Coercion
If you were pressured or forced into participating in money laundering under threats or coercion, this could serve as a valid defense. Being under duress removes the element of voluntary participation, which is essential to proving these charges in court.
Taking the time to understand your legal defenses is important when facing serious accusations like money laundering.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With Our Fort Worth Money Laundering Attorneys
Facing a money laundering charge can be intimidating, especially if you’re unsure where to turn for guidance. Understanding the basics of how these cases are built and prosecuted is an important first step. Seeking legal advice can help you navigate complex rules and focus on defense strategies.
With the right support, you can find a path forward that protects your future. For help, contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth money laundering attorney.
