Federal Money Laundering Defense Attorney Serving Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland Federal Courts
Strategic Defense for High-Stakes Federal Financial Crime Charges
Over 30 Years of Experience Defending Clients in Complex Criminal Investigations
If you’re under investigation or facing charges for federal money laundering, your freedom, financial security, and future are at serious risk. The federal government brings these cases with extensive resources and a presumption of guilt. You need a defense attorney with the experience, discretion, and strategy to fight back.
I represent professionals, business owners, and individuals accused of financial crimes—including money laundering, wire fraud, and conspiracy—across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. With over three decades of federal criminal defense experience, I help clients manage crises, protect reputations, and defend against life-altering charges.
Call (202) 462-1100 or contact me online for a confidential consultation today.
What Is Money Laundering?
Money laundering is the process of disguising the origins of money obtained through illegal activity by making it appear legitimate. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1956 and § 1957, the federal government prosecutes individuals and entities suspected of conducting financial transactions involving the proceeds of unlawful activity.
You may be charged with money laundering if the government believes you:
• Transferred, deposited, or invested money linked to criminal conduct
• Used businesses, bank accounts, or shell corporations to “clean” illicit funds
• Made structured deposits to avoid federal reporting requirements
• Facilitated transactions on behalf of another person to hide criminal proceeds
• Were involved in cryptocurrency or international transactions tied to criminal acts
Money laundering charges are often linked with allegations of drug trafficking, fraud, public corruption, tax evasion, or bribery—and can be prosecuted even if the underlying crime is not proven.
Who Investigates and Prosecutes Money Laundering?
Federal money laundering investigations are often conducted by:
• The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI)
• The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
• The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)
• U.S. Attorney’s Offices in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ)
These agencies use financial records, surveillance, subpoenas, and wiretaps—and they rarely file charges without a fully developed case.
Penalties for Federal Money Laundering
Money laundering is a serious felony offense with substantial penalties:
• Up to 20 years in federal prison
• Fines of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds
• Asset forfeiture of bank accounts, vehicles, real estate, or business holdings
• Restitution to alleged victims
• Professional consequences (loss of licenses, security clearances, banking privileges)
If you are convicted, the financial, personal, and reputational damage can be permanent.
What the Government Must Prove
To convict you of money laundering, prosecutors must prove that you:
• Knew the funds came from criminal activity
• Engaged in a financial transaction involving those funds
• Intended to promote unlawful activity or conceal the source, ownership, or control of the money
Each of these elements presents an opportunity to challenge the government’s evidence, interpretation, or assumptions.
Strategic Defenses Against Money Laundering Charges
Every case is unique—but common defenses may include:
Lack of Intent or Knowledge – You did not know the funds were linked to illegal activity Legitimate Source of Funds – Transactions were tied to legal business or investments Insufficient or Circumstantial Evidence – Government cannot meet the burden of proof Unlawful Search or Seizure – Evidence may be suppressed due to constitutional violations Overreach or Mischaracterization – Innocent or routine transactions misinterpreted as criminal Entrapment or Government Misconduct
I work with forensic accountants, compliance consultants, and digital investigators to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a strong, strategic defense.
Why Clients Choose My Firm for Federal Money Laundering Defense
35+ Years of Federal Trial and Negotiation Experience Trusted by Professionals, Executives, and Business Owners Discreet and Strategic Representation in Complex Cases Strong Track Record of Dismissals, Reductions, and Acquittals Personalized Legal Strategy Tailored to Each Client’s Unique Situation
From pre-indictment investigations to federal jury trials, I provide a calm, commanding defense when your future is on the line.
What To Do If You Are Being Investigated
• Do Not Speak to Federal Agents Without a Lawyer
Politely decline and invoke your right to counsel.
• Preserve Financial Records and Communication Logs
Do not destroy or alter evidence. Let us guide document collection and review.
• Act Immediately
Early legal intervention can prevent charges, protect your rights, and influence the outcome of your case.
Your Defense Starts Now—Before It’s Too Late
Money laundering charges can quickly spiral into full-blown federal prosecutions. The time to protect yourself is now. Whether you are under investigation, have received a subpoena, or are already facing indictment—I can help. Call (202) 462-1100 or schedule a confidential consultation today.
Proudly representing clients in federal courts across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, as well as D.C. Superior Court and Virginia state courts.
