Facing Money Laundering Charges in New York? What to Do Now.

You’ve just received news that you’re under investigation or, worse, already charged with money laundering in New York. A knot forms in your stomach. Your mind races. What does this mean for your future? Your family? Your business? That fear is real, and it’s valid. It’s a crisis. But you aren’t alone. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we understand the crushing weight of these accusations. We’re here to help you get clear, get control, and start fighting back.

So, What Exactly Is Money Laundering in New York?

In New York, money laundering generally involves engaging in financial transactions with unlawfully obtained money or property, or conducting transactions to conceal the source, ownership, or control of criminally derived proceeds. It’s not just about hiding dirty money; it’s about making it look legitimate. The New York money laundering statute, specifically Article 470 of the Penal Law, broadly defines these acts, covering everything from simple cash transactions to complex international transfers. This isn’t some abstract financial crime; it’s a charge that can dismantle your life.

Blunt Truth: The state isn’t just looking at drug kingpins or organized crime. Regular business owners, financial professionals, and even individuals can find themselves caught in the crosshairs, often without fully understanding the nuances of how their actions might be interpreted as “laundering.” They build cases on patterns, and sometimes, innocent actions can be twisted.

The core idea behind these laws is to prevent criminals from profiting from their illicit activities and to sever the financial lifeline of illegal enterprises. This means prosecutors are often looking for a connection to an underlying “specified unlawful activity” – things like drug trafficking, fraud, or even certain tax crimes. Without that connection, the money laundering charge often falls apart. That’s a critical point.

What Are the Penalties for Money Laundering in New York?

The penalties for money laundering in New York are severe, ranging from Class E felonies to Class B felonies, carrying potential prison sentences of up to 25 years and substantial fines. It depends on the value of the property laundered and the level of intent. For example, a conviction for Money Laundering in the Third Degree (Penal Law § 470.15), involving property valued over $5,000, is a Class D felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 7 years. Money Laundering in the First Degree (Penal Law § 470.20), involving over $1,000,000, is a Class B felony, with potential imprisonment of up to 25 years. Beyond prison, you’re looking at hefty fines, asset forfeiture, and a criminal record that will haunt your professional and personal life. Your freedom, your reputation, your livelihood – they’re all on the line.

This isn’t a slap on the wrist. These are life-altering consequences. This is why you need a tenacious defense from day one. I’ve seen firsthand how aggressive prosecutors can be in these cases, and you need someone who knows how to counter that aggression with a strategic and comprehensive defense. Your future demands it.

Federal vs. State: Who’s Charging You?

Money laundering can be a state or federal offense, and sometimes both, significantly impacting jurisdiction and potential penalties. Federal charges, often brought under Title 18 U.S. Code §§ 1956 and 1957, typically carry even harsher sentences, mandatory minimums, and are pursued by agencies like the FBI, DEA, and IRS with vast resources. If you’re facing federal charges, the game changes entirely. The federal system is a different beast: stricter rules, experienced prosecutors, and typically much longer prison sentences. As a former prosecutor, and having handled numerous federal criminal defense cases, I can tell you that the strategies for federal court are distinct and require a specific type of experience. Don’t mistake a state charge for a federal charge, or vice-versa, or underestimate the gravity of either. It’s a matter of life and liberty.

How We Start Building Your Money Laundering Defense Today.

Building a robust money laundering defense starts with a meticulous investigation of the prosecution’s case, identifying weaknesses in their evidence, and challenging the elements of the crime. This means scrutinizing how they allege the funds were “criminally derived,” examining the “specified unlawful activity,” and questioning the intent behind your actions. Did you know the money was dirty? Did you specifically intend to conceal it or facilitate illegal activity? These are huge questions.

• Challenging “Criminally Derived Property”: We’ll attack the prosecution’s proof that the money or assets involved were indeed generated from illegal activities. If the funds weren’t “dirty” to begin with, the charge often collapses.
• Lack of Knowledge or Intent: Were you truly unaware the money was illicit, or that your actions would facilitate a crime? We can argue you lacked the necessary criminal intent, which is a cornerstone of money laundering convictions.
• Procedural Errors and Fourth Amendment Violations: Law enforcement must follow strict rules. If evidence was obtained through illegal searches, seizures, or improper wiretaps, we can move to suppress it, weakening the prosecution’s entire case.
• Mistake of Fact or Due Diligence: In business dealings, a legitimate mistake or a diligent effort to comply with regulations can be a powerful defense. We’ll show you acted in good faith.
• Negotiation and Alternative Resolutions: While we prepare for trial, we’ll also explore all avenues for negotiation, potentially leading to reduced charges or alternative resolutions.

Each money laundering case is unique. There’s no one-size-fits-all defense. My experience, having spent years both prosecuting and defending these complex cases, has taught me that the devil is always in the details. You need an attorney who is not only knowledgeable about the law but also understands the intricacies of financial transactions and how to present your narrative effectively.

Insider Tip: Don’t try to explain yourself to law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Your right to remain silent is your most powerful tool right now. Use it.

For example, in a complex financial case, the prosecutor might attempt to create a narrative of deceit through a pattern of transactions. However, with a comprehensive review of financial records, emails, and witness testimonies, we can often demonstrate that these transactions were part of legitimate business operations, albeit perhaps poorly documented or misunderstood by outsiders. It’s about taking their narrative and rebuilding it with the truth of your situation.

Why Acting Quickly is Non-Negotiable.

The moment you suspect you’re under investigation or are charged, time becomes your enemy. Evidence can disappear, witness memories fade, and prosecutors build their case while you wait. Early intervention means we can:

• Protect Your Rights: Ensure law enforcement respects your constitutional rights from the outset.
• Control the Narrative: Influence the direction of the investigation before charges even solidify.
• Preserve Evidence: Secure documents, communications, and witnesses that can bolster your defense.
• Strategize Proactively: Develop a defense plan tailored to your specific situation, rather than reactively defending against charges already filed.

Think of it like a chess match. Every move matters, especially the first ones. Waiting allows your opponent to get ahead. You need to be proactive, not reactive. That’s how you gain an advantage in any legal battle. My approach has always been to hit the ground running; we don’t just wait for the next court date. We actively work to dismantle the prosecution’s case from day one.

Your Steadfast Guide Through the Crisis.

Facing money laundering charges in New York can feel like drowning. You need a lifeline. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is that lifeline. I, Mr. Sris, along with my knowledgeable team, have spent years navigating these treacherous legal waters. We don’t just know the law; we understand the fear, the confusion, and the overwhelming anxiety that comes with it. My background as a former prosecutor gives us a unique perspective on how the other side thinks, what they look for, and how to effectively counter their strategies. This isn’t just a job for us; it’s a commitment to protecting your future.

Analogy: Think of your legal situation like a raging river. You’re in the middle, and the current is strong. We’re the experienced river guide with the strong raft and the map. We know the rapids, we know the safe passages, and we’ll steer you to calm waters. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

We believe in honest, direct communication. No legal jargon that leaves you more confused. Just clear, actionable advice so you understand every step of your defense. While we can’t guarantee outcomes — no attorney ethically can — we can guarantee unwavering dedication, a tenacious fight, and a deep, experienced understanding of what it takes to defend against serious charges like money laundering. This is our promise to you.

Ready To Talk? Secure Your Confidential Case Review.

Don’t let fear paralyze you. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense can be. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a location in Buffalo, New York, ready to provide the guidance you need. We’re here to listen, to understand your situation, and to outline a clear path forward. It’s time to regain control.