The Impact of Money Laundering Charges and Conviction is Life-Altering
Today, more than ever, law enforcement is aggressively focused on identifying and prosecuting instances of money laundering, a serious white-collar crime. With both state and federal charges at stake, guilty verdicts may result in severe penalties.
While money laundering statutes are complex, the crime is the act of making illegally generated funds seem to be the source of legal activities.
If you are facing money laundering charges in Virginia, or believe you may be charged, you should strongly consider engaging an experienced money laundering defense attorney. With the stakes so high, taking every precaution to protect yourself and your future is not a luxury — it’s a necessity.
Cody Villalon is a knowledgeable and well-regarded white-collar crime attorney with specific experience defending individuals accused of money laundering. In Richmond and the surrounding area, he is known to be a high-quality, compassionate lawyer whose commitment to his community is substantial.
Contact him today at (804) 316-0765 to schedule a free consultation and learn how he would address your situation.
Knowledge, Experience, and Approach
Cody Villalon Checks All of the Boxes
Serious situations call for definitive action. Engaging the right money laundering lawyer when facing white-collar crime charges is the first, and perhaps the most important, decision you need to make.
Because of the technical nature of the laws governing money laundering and the ramifications of conviction, you want to work with an accomplished professional, one who can positively impact the outcome of your case and your future.
This is Cody Villalon. An established money laundering defense lawyer, Cody has spent the past decade in Virginia providing high-quality, responsive service. His extensive knowledge of both federal and state money laundering laws, combined with his work in the Virginia legal system, provides him with a strong base from which to serve.
Clearly there is no substitute for experience in cases like this, but it is not the only important factor in deciding who to engage. Money laundering charges are personal, impacting your reputation and that of your friends and family. Working with a defense lawyer with whom you feel comfortable is crucial.
Cody Villalon is a sole practitioner, well known for providing caring and compassionate legal service. As his client you can rest assured that he will personally handle every aspect of your case. He is both non-judgmental and discreet; you can rely on him to manage your case with honor.
Finally, the greatest testament to the service that Cody provides comes directly from those with whom he has worked. Their statements paint a picture of a criminal defense attorney who supports his clients completely and works tirelessly to minimize the impact of the charges they are facing on their lives.
Providing High-Quality Defense Services
Understanding What Cody Villalon Will Do For You
Facing money laundering charges and the impending legal process is overwhelming, to say the least. With Cody Villalon by your side, you can be sure that every aspect of your case will be handled appropriately. His grasp of the complex laws is complete, and he is comfortable in the most trying of circumstances. Cody brings a sense of calm to unnerving situations.
As a symbol of his commitment to his community, Cody provides all prospective clients with a no-cost consultation. Fit is incredibly important when deciding who to entrust with your defense. This meeting provides you with the opportunity to see, firsthand, how he communicates, and it offers you the chance to share the details of your case. Your insight is crucial and perspective valuable.
If you decide to work with Cody, you can rely on him to manage your entire case, from start to finish. HIs responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Conducting a thorough review of the charges against you
- Examining evidence
- Managing all administrative issues, including court filings
- Communicating on your behalf
- Negotiating a reduction in charges, if appropriate
- Serving as a resource for questions and concerns
- Developing a defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case
- Preparing you for all appearances, in full court and before a judge
- Managing your trial
- Filing relevant appeals.
Basically, every aspect of your case will be personally handled by Cody. In money laundering cases, details matter, and effectively managing cases can be incredibly time consuming. Cody is well-aware of the commitment necessary to successfully represent individuals in situations like this. His intentional management of his caseload ensures that he has the time necessary to handle the entirety of your case.
Money Laundering Charges Are Complex
Cody Villalon Answers Your Frequently Asked Questions
Because money laundering crimes are unquestionably technical and their impact potentially life changing, those facing charges have many questions. Below, Cody Villalon has shared those he hears most often, along with his responses.
What is money laundering?
This non-violent crime is defined as an act designed to conceal the source or destination of money obtained illegally. For example, money earned from selling illegal drugs can be funneled through a cash business and deposited into the bank as a legitimate part of their sales.
Is money laundering a misdemeanor or felony?
In Virginia, the classification of money laundering can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the details of the crime. Your Virginia money laundering attorney can review the facts of your case and share the categorization of the charges against you.
What types of actions commonly lead to money laundering?
While drug dealing and illegal gambling are commonly recognized as a precursor to money laundering, fraud in many aspects (real estate, health care, and business, to name a few) often result in this action. Money laundering charges, regardless of the source of the funds, are serious and require experienced legal representation.
Can I go to jail if convicted of money laundering?
Prison time is a very real possibility for those facing money laundering charges. In fact, convictions for felony money laundering can result in maximum penalties of fines up to $500,000 and 40 years in jail. Those facing less serious, first-time misdemeanor charges face lesser consequences; but subsequent penalties for similar crimes may be charged as a Class 6 felony.
What are some common strategies used to defend those accused of money laundering?
While the specific angle your money laundering defense attorney will leverage depends upon the details of your case, some of the most common defense tactics include demonstrating that the origin of the funds laundered was legal, proving absence of intent or knowledge, showing the business transactions were legal, and even claiming entrapment. Talk to a Virginia money laundering defense attorney regarding your case.
Cody Villalon recognizes these questions are only the tip of the iceberg for those facing charges. Contact him to schedule a free consultation where he can address your more specific concerns.
The Time to Engage a Money Laundering Defense Lawyer Is Now
Your Future Depends Upon It
Waiting, in many aspects of life, can be a valuable strategy, but this is not the case when facing money laundering charges. You need to act quickly and engage legal representation in order to provide your defense attorney with the opportunity to leverage time on your behalf. You want them to have access to fresh evidence; investigations are time-consuming and technically complex.
That said, if you have been charged, or know you soon will be, identifying the best money laundering attorney for your situation is a priority. You must control what you can.
Cody Villalon appreciates the value of time and is available to meet with you immediately.
Reach out to him today at 804-316-0765 to schedule your free consultation. The right white-collar defense lawyer can make a tangible difference in your future.
Cody Villalon founded his firm over a decade ago on the belief that the integrity of the legal system is dependent on access to quality representation to all. His commitment to his community is long-standing and his reputation for success outstanding.