Facing money laundering charges in California is a serious matter, with steep penalties and lifelong consequences. If you find yourself in this position, understanding your rights, the legal process, and how an experienced criminal defense attorney can help is essential to protecting your future.
Money laundering involves carrying out financial transactions to disguise the origins of illegally obtained funds, making them seem legitimate. Under California Penal Code §186.10, charges apply if transactions exceed $5,000 in a week or $25,000 in a month and are linked to criminal activity. Prosecutors must prove you knew or intended that the funds were connected to a crime.
Contact a Fresno criminal defense attorney immediately — specialization in money laundering cases matters.
Don’t discuss your case with anyone but your lawyer.
Preserve all financial records and related correspondence — never destroy evidence.
Follow your attorney’s advice and appear at all court dates.
Acting quickly with the help of an experienced money laundering defense lawyer can substantially impact your outcome, from minimizing penalties to possibly getting charges dismissed.
Penalties vary depending on whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges:
| Charge Type | Jail Time | Fine Amount | Additional Years Based on Transaction Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail | $1,000 | – |
| Felony | 16 months to 4 years | $250,000 or twice the laundered sum | +1-4 years for transactions $50K-$2.5M+ |
| Repeat Felony | Up to 4 years | $500,000 or 5x the laundered sum | + up to 4 years extra |
Asset forfeiture and permanent loss of property involved in financial crimes are likely.
Having a conviction on record affects:
Employment and professional licenses
Immigration status and federal benefits
Reputation, especially for those in financial or business sectors
Money laundering often crosses state lines or involves interstate commerce, which can elevate the case to the federal level — with even harsher penalties.
Avoid jeopardizing your case by:
Speaking with investigators without your attorney
Failing to secure all documentation
Ignoring advice to remain silent
Attempting to “fix” things on your own
Your white collar crime lawyer will help navigate these challenges and protect your rights.
In money laundering cases, experienced criminal defense attorneys will thoroughly examine the evidence and the circumstances surrounding the charges to develop the most effective defense strategy. Common approaches include:
Lack of knowledge or intent: No purposeful attempt to launder money, or no knowledge of criminal activity.
Insufficient funds: The alleged transactions do not cross the statutory threshold.
Lawful source: Demonstrating the funds originated from legitimate sources.
Unlawful search and seizure: Challenging improperly obtained evidence.
Mistaken identity: Asserting that the defendant was not involved in the transaction.
Legal diversion programs or probation may be possible for first-time offenders, potentially avoiding jail time. Repeat offenders are rarely granted probation.
Mark Broughton is a certified specialist in criminal law with decades of experience handling high-profile cases in Fresno and the Central Valley. His compassionate, ethical approach and proven track record offer clients peace of mind and expert guidance throughout the process.
Clients highlight his honesty, dedication, and detailed personal attention even in challenging cases. Whether resolving a minor misdemeanor or a complex federal indictment, he invests full effort to achieve the best possible outcome.
It is disguising the origin of funds linked to illegal activity through financial transactions exceeding set thresholds ($5,000/week or $25,000/month).
Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine. Felony: Up to 4 years prison, $250,000 or more in fines. Repeat offenders face even stiffer penalties.
No. Only discuss the case with a criminal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
Sometimes. Diversion programs, probation, or reduced charges may be available for those with minimal involvement or no criminal history.
Yes. You may lose jobs, licenses, immigration status, and face social stigma.
Federal money laundering cases carry much harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.
Typical defenses include lack of intent, source of funds is legal, unlawful police procedures, and mistaken identity.
Charged with money laundering? The sooner you call, the greater your options. Mark Broughton provides confidential consultations for those facing financial crime accusations, cares deeply about clients’ futures, and delivers results through unparalleled expertise.
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