Money in soapy water representing money washing aka money laundering. If you've been accused of money laundering in Illinois, you NEED a money laundering attorney in your corner.

Aggressive Money Laundering Attorney

If you have been accused or charged with money laundering in Illinois, then you need an attorney immediately. The earlier you retain legal counsel the better chance you have at de-escalating the situation. Money laundering is when money has been obtained through illegal actions while also trying to claim that it was earned in a legitimate manner. 

An example of money laundering would be someone who obtained money by selling illegal drugs and then filtering it through a real business such as a convenient store. The burden of proof is on the prosecution which means they have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed a crime. 

In order for a conviction of money laundering to be obtained, there are three elements that the prosecution will need to prove. 

  1. A financial transaction needs to be made or attempted to be made. This can consist of paying a utility bill, making a purchase at a store or depositing money into the bank.
  2. The money known to be derived from illegal sources is used in this transaction.
  3. Intentional concealment of the illegitimate source of money 

The good news is that the prosecution will need to prove that all of these three elements exist without reasonable doubt. This can be challenging to prove. Hirsch Law Group knows how to poke holes in the prosecution’s case.

Sentences for Money Laundering

  • Value of $10,000 or less – Class 3 Felony – 2-5 years in prison
  • Value of $10,000 – $100,000 – Class 2 Felony – 3-7 years in prison
  • Value of $100,000 – $500,000 – Class 1 Felony – 4-15 years in prison

Defenses of Money Laundering Charges

  1. The defendant believed that he or she was in danger. This can also include a loved on being in danger.
  2. Lack of intent to commit the crime. There was no knowledge that the money came from an illegal source.
  3. Not enough evidence to prosecute. The prosecutor must trace the illegal funds from the illegal source to where it is being laundered. 
  4. The money came from a legal source. 
  5. Mistake