Accused of Money Laundering? Our Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Protect Your Future
If you’ve been charged with money laundering in Massachusetts, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we focus on criminal defense and have offices conveniently located in Boston and Salem. Our team of aggressive criminal defense attorneys, including a former prosecutor, provides strategic legal defense for clients facing serious white-collar criminal charges, including money laundering. We defend individuals across Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties, including cities such as Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, and more. We don’t just represent your case—we take it personally.
Money laundering charges carry serious legal and personal consequences. In Massachusetts, being accused of moving or disguising illegally obtained funds can lead to heavy fines, imprisonment, and a damaged reputation. Whether you are under investigation or already charged, working with a trusted Massachusetts defense attorney is the first step in defending your rights and protecting your future.
Understanding Money Laundering Charges in Massachusetts
Money laundering is the process of concealing the origins of money obtained through illegal means, typically by passing it through complex financial transactions or commercial dealings. Under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 267A, money laundering is considered a felony offense, and a conviction can result in significant criminal penalties.
According to Massachusetts law, a person is guilty of money laundering if they knowingly:
- Conduct or attempt to conduct a financial transaction involving the proceeds of criminal activity with the intent to promote further unlawful activity.
- Don’t reveal the type, location, source, ownership, or control of the revenues.
- Avoid transaction reporting requirements under state or federal law.
Money laundering convictions may carry penalties of up to 5 years in state prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the value of the property involved, whichever is greater. In cases involving organizations or entities, the fine may be even higher.
In addition, defendants may face forfeiture of assets, including cash, vehicles, and property believed to be connected to or derived from illegal activity, as outlined under MGL c. 276, § 3B.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm
When facing white-collar criminal charges like money laundering, you need more than just legal knowledge—you need a strategic defense built on experience, precision, and dedication. Our criminal defense law firm is known for aggressive courtroom representation and an in-depth understanding of the prosecution’s tactics, thanks to the insight of a former prosecutor on our team.
We serve clients in Boston and surrounding areas such as Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, and Swampscott. Our reputation is built on consistent results, clear communication, and a defense strategy tailored to each case.
Our team focuses on:
- Reviewing every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
- Challenging improper searches or seizures that violate your rights
- Investigating the financial transactions at the heart of your charge
- Negotiating, where feasible, with prosecutors to have charges dropped or reduced
- Preparing a comprehensive defense strategy for trial, if necessary
Areas We Serve in Massachusetts
Whether you live in the heart of Boston or a nearby city or town, the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is here to help. We defend individuals, but not limited to the following areas:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Wherever you’re located, we’re ready to defend your rights and ensure you receive fair treatment under the law.
We Take Your Defense Personally
Money laundering charges can impact your finances, freedom, and future. You deserve a Boston defense attorney who is committed to understanding your situation and building a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we approach every case with determination, thorough preparation, and an unwavering focus on protecting your rights.
Don’t face these charges alone. Whether you’re in Boston, Salem, or elsewhere in Massachusetts, we’re ready to step in and guide you through this challenging process. Contact us now to schedule a private strategy session with an experienced Massachusetts defense attorney. Let our criminal defense law firm start working on your case and help you move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered money laundering under Massachusetts law?
Money laundering involves financial transactions intended to hide the origins of money obtained through illegal means. This can include bank transfers, shell companies, or cash structuring to evade detection.
Can I be charged with money laundering if I didn’t know the money was illegal?
Knowledge and intent are key elements of a money laundering charge. If you unknowingly handled funds tied to criminal activity, you may have a valid defense. Our attorneys can help you assess whether the state can prove your intent.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for money laundering?
You should speak with a Boston criminal defense attorney immediately. Avoid speaking to investigators or law enforcement without legal counsel. Your case’s outcome can be greatly impacted by early action.
Are money laundering charges federal or state?
Money laundering can be prosecuted at both the state and federal levels, depending on the scope and nature of the alleged activity. Our team can handle complex cases in either jurisdiction.
What are the potential consequences of a money laundering conviction?
Convictions can lead to imprisonment, heavy fines, asset forfeiture, and permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation. Hiring an aggressive criminal defense attorney can help minimize or avoid these penalties.