Frequently Asked Questions About Money Laundering Charges In Federal Court
Tracing The Money: The useful questions here are simple: what was the source, what moved, who knew what, and whether forfeiture is being used as leverage instead of proof. This page, faq, keeps the focus on money laundering so the site does not read like a recycled template.
Answers to the most common questions about federal money laundering charges, investigations, and defense.
Q: I haven't been charged yet, but I think I'm under investigation. Should I hire a lawyer?
Yes. Immediately. Pre-indictment representation is often the most valuable legal service a federal defense attorney provides. An attorney can interact with investigators on your behalf, potentially prevent charges from being filed, and — at minimum — ensure you don't make statements or take actions that worsen your position.
Q: Federal agents want to talk to me. Should I speak with them?
No. Politely decline. Tell them you want to cooperate but need to speak with your attorney first. Then say nothing else. Even innocent statements can be used to build a case — law enforcement is permitted to misrepresent evidence during interviews. False statements to federal agents (18 U.S.C. § 1001) are a separate felony, often carrying more prison time than the underlying offense.
Q: What's the conviction rate for federal money laundering cases?
Federal prosecutors have an overall conviction rate above 90%. However, this number includes plea agreements, where defendants plead guilty to reduced charges. The trial conviction rate is lower, and with experienced counsel, many cases resolve on significantly better terms than the original indictment.
Q: How long does a federal money laundering case take?
From indictment to resolution (by plea or trial), most federal money laundering cases take 6-18 months. Investigations before indictment can take 1-3 years. Appeals add 12-18 months.
Q: Can I get a federal money laundering charge expunged?
Federal law does not provide for true expungement of federal convictions in most circumstances. Some limited post-conviction relief is available — pardons, commutations, or narrow legal challenges — but these are rare. This is one of many reasons to fight the charge with experienced counsel from day one.
Q: What's the difference between a target, a subject, and a witness?
A target is someone the government believes committed a crime and intends to charge. A subject is someone whose conduct is within the scope of the investigation but hasn't been designated a target. A witness is someone the government believes has information but hasn't committed a crime. These designations can change as the investigation develops.
Q: Should I accept a plea deal?
It depends on the specific deal, the strength of the government's evidence, the Guidelines exposure, and your priorities. Some plea deals offer genuine benefit — reduced charges, lower Guidelines range, certainty. Others are barely better than losing at trial. An experienced federal attorney can evaluate the offer against the evidence and advise you.
Q: Can I be released on bail in a federal money laundering case?
Yes, pretrial release is possible in many federal money laundering cases, but it's not automatic. The government often moves for detention in financial crime cases, arguing flight risk due to access to assets. A strong release plan — secured bond, third-party custody, location monitoring — is essential.
Q: Will I go to federal prison if convicted of money laundering?
Most federal money laundering convictions result in prison time. First-time offenders may receive sentences below the Guidelines range, but probation-only sentences for federal felonies are rare. The actual sentence depends on the offense level, criminal history, and the quality of the defense presentation at sentencing.
Q: How much will a federal money laundering defense cost?
Federal criminal defense is expensive. Retainers typically range from $25,000 to $100,000+ depending on the complexity of the case, whether it goes to trial, and the attorney's experience. Some attorneys offer payment plans. The cost of not hiring experienced counsel — in years of lost freedom — is far greater.
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Legal Disclaimer: This website provides general information about federal criminal defense. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this content. Every case is different. Consult a qualified federal criminal defense attorney about your specific situation.
