The first days after the charge
In a federal case, an initial appearance before a magistrate judge usually follows an arrest quickly, and the court sets release conditions, which can include travel limits, surrender of a passport, and restrictions on financial activity. In a New York state case, the first appearance is the arraignment in criminal court. Either way, the conditions set at the start shape daily life for the rest of the case, so preparing for that appearance matters. Money laundering is rarely charged alone; it is usually tied to an underlying offense such as fraud or drug trafficking, and understanding that underlying charge is part of understanding your exposure.
When accounts are restrained
Prosecutors often seek to restrain or seize assets they believe are connected to the alleged laundering, and this can happen well before trial. A restraint may sweep in accounts you consider legitimate, including savings unrelated to the charges or funds belonging to family members. Courts have recognized limits on freezing untainted assets needed to pay for counsel, and third parties with an interest in seized property have their own ways to assert claims. Gather records showing where the money in each account came from, because those records can support a request to release funds.
Testing the financial theory
Laundering cases often depend on financial analysis: how funds moved, whether transactions were designed to conceal, and what the defendant knew about the source. We review the indictment or complaint, the bank records, and any statements you made, and we consider whether forensic accounting help is needed. We also address the immediate risks, including contact with co-defendants, use of accounts while the case is pending, and immigration or licensing consequences. Decisions about cooperation, plea discussions, or trial come later, once the evidence is understood.
