November 13, 2024 • Posted In Criminal Defense
Facing money laundering charges is one of many significant white collar crimes in Atlanta that carry severe consequences. Understanding the penalties you may face spotlights the life-changing outcomes accompanying a conviction. Below, we look at Georgia’s penalties for money laundering.
A money laundering conviction may result in an extended prison sentence. Expect to pay significant fines as well. State or federal law may apply depending on the extent of the charges. A conviction under federal law can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years and $500,000 in fines.
The prison term and fine can apply to each transaction. Fines can reach millions of dollars for multiple transactions. It is also typical for other charges and penalties of an underlying offense, such as fraud, to apply.
Any victims of Georgia money laundering crimes also have the legal right to sue for damages they incur. The financial compensation they may pursue is calculated on their economic and non-economic damages. Asset seizure can be one method of generating funds for reimbursement.
Funds and assets obtained through money laundering schemes can be seized, resulting in the loss of a significant amount of wealth. Any asset originating from a criminal act is subject to forfeiture.
Rebuilding your life after a money laundering conviction in Georgia can be daunting, if not impossible. Business, family, and social relationships are often severed. For family and friends, life frequently goes on in the time it takes to serve prolonged prison sentences. The financial implications of money laundering can last a lifetime.
Any criminal charge in Georgia is significant. Failing to secure representation by an experienced Atlanta money laundering attorney immediately can be costly to you. A critical factor for a strong defense is exploring the significance of intent in white collar crimes. Through a comprehensive review of the facts of your case, it may be possible to disprove or cast doubt on your intention to commit a crime.
Other defenses may include insufficient evidence of a crime, the use of illegal search and seizure tactics, entrapment, or coercion. Carefully examining the law, how it applies to your charges, and the methods used to build a case against you may play a pivotal role in your defense.
An examination of your mental health at the time money laundering occurred may also shift the outcome in a case. Having your charges dropped or significantly reduced can offer hope and relief from the crushing penalties and stigma accompanying money laundering convictions.
Securing legal representation at any stage of potential money laundering or an underlying offense charge is imperative. The prosecution aims to build a case connecting you with as many criminal components as possible to maximize penalties. Even without being a primary conspirator, charges of co-conspiracy can result in severe legal penalties.
The prosecution may work to establish if your actions played an essential role in furthering a criminal activity, ultimately leading to penalties equal to that of someone committing an underlying offense. Schedule a free case review with Sandy at Wallack Law in Atlanta, Georgia, to discuss charges of money laundering in Georgia and the penalties that may apply to a conviction. You deserve to have the respect and knowledge of an experienced Atlanta criminal defense lawyer on your side.
