Facing a money laundering charge can be a stressful event. You may feel overwhelmed, unsure of how to defend yourself and fight back against this serious charge. The complexity of money laundering cases can make it difficult to know where to start. A Fort Mill money laundering lawyer can aid in the process, explaining any laws that apply and helping you decide what the next steps should be.
Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A., has the experience and skills to assist you when facing money laundering charges. Christopher A. Wellborn, the firm’s founder, has been focused on defending the people of Fort Mill and the larger South Carolina region from criminal charges for decades. Wellborn is the current president of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and served as the past president of the York County Bar Association.
The United States Sentencing Commission reported 1,095 cases of money laundering nationwide in 2024. Out of those found guilty, 73.8% had little to no criminal history. For most individuals facing money laundering charges, this is their first exposure to criminal court, making the situation far more intimidating.
Money laundering in South Carolina is defined as the intentional processing and distribution of funds that are from illegal activities or sources. Some common money laundering operations involve illicit drug sales, weapon dealing, or a scheme to avoid taxes and regulations.
Money laundering cases are often prosecuted in tandem with related charges surrounding the income. For instance, if you are accused of embezzlement from a company, you may also be suspected of money laundering as a way to conceal the source of money.
Money laundering tends to fall into a three-stage process. These parts are:
Money laundering cases can be full of complicated elements, such as a vast number of records pulled by the prosecution as evidence that can go back years. The stress of facing serious accusations can already be a heavy weight, not to mention the hours of work required to craft a defense. Hire a money laundering lawyer who can guide you through this difficult time.
An experienced money laundering attorney will be familiar with what the prosecution must prove. The following are a few strategies that your money laundering lawyer may use in your case:
The details of your case may not align with the above strategies, yet a Fort Mill money laundering lawyer can help decide on a legal defense that is suitable for your unique circumstances.
If you are arrested, you will likely be transported to either the Fort Mill City Jail for processing or the York County Detention Center in York. Reach out to Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A. right away. Attorney Wellborn brings the experience and knowledge of local courts and federal court procedures that can make a difference in your case.
There is no statute of limitations for money laundering in South Carolina. Since money laundering is classified as a felony, there is no time limit for when you can be charged. If the accusation includes interstate action, the case may fall under federal jurisdiction. In federal money laundering cases, there may be a time limit of five years, depending on the case.
It is not necessary to have a lawyer for a money laundering case in South Carolina, but it is highly recommended. A money laundering attorney will know what it takes to win a money laundering case and the types of evidence needed to be successful. Money laundering cases can rely on complex webs of financial records, witness testimony, and recordings. Your lawyer can guide you through the state’s accusations and safeguard your rights.
Money laundering in South Carolina is a felony. The South Carolina Uniform Money Services Act breaks down the levels depending on the dollar amount:
Money laundering penalties depend on a variety of factors, but mainly relate to two aspects of the case. The first is the class of felony, and the second factor is whether or not you are a repeat offender. Penalties for money laundering can include extensive prison sentences and huge fines. Speak to an experienced lawyer about the details of your case and the penalties you could be facing.
Money laundering and associated allegations are serious. Christopher A. Wellborn, P.A., has vast experience with exceptional results defending a wide range of criminal charges, including money laundering cases, and our legal team can help.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation so we can discuss the details of your case.