You’re here because you or someone you know is facing serious federal charges related to counterfeiting money or other white collar financial crimes. Let’s cut right to the chase – this is a precarious situation that demands swift and skilled legal action. 1At Spodek Law Group, we understand the weight of these allegations. Our elite team of criminal defense attorneys has successfully defended numerous clients against white collar crime charges in federal court. We know how to navigate these complex cases and fight for the best possible outcome. 1
What Exactly Is Counterfeiting?
Counterfeiting refers to the illegal manufacturing, altering, or use of currency, securities, or other financial obligations with the intent to defraud. 2 This includes:
- Creating fake cash, checks, bonds, etc.
- Altering genuine bills to make them appear more valuable
- Knowingly using or attempting to use counterfeit currency or securities
Even possessing counterfeiting equipment like specialized printers or materials can lead to charges. 1The key element is the intent to defraud – accidentally using a counterfeit bill you received from someone else is not a crime if you were unaware it was fake. 3 However, the burden is on you to prove that lack of knowledge.
Severe Federal Penalties
Counterfeiting charges are no joke. These are federal felonies that carry potential sentences of:
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Fines up to $250,000 (or higher for larger operations) 1
Sentencing depends on factors like:
- Types of items counterfeited (currency, checks, consumer goods, etc.)
- Total value of the counterfeit items
- If the operation crossed state or international borders
- Whether the counterfeits benefited terrorists or criminal organizations1
Essentially, the larger and more widespread the counterfeiting scheme, the harsher the penalties tend to be.Even first-time offenders face serious consequences. Using that fake $20 at the grocery store could land you in federal prison for years if convicted. 3
An Uphill Legal Battle
Beating counterfeiting charges requires an aggressive defense strategy from a skilled criminal lawyer. A few key challenges:
Intent is difficult to disprove: The prosecution only needs to convince the jury you knowingly used or created counterfeit items. Your word alone that you were unaware is often not enough. 3
The stakes are high: With such severe punishments on the line, prosecutors vigorously pursue convictions. They have vast resources to build their case against you.
The laws are complicated: Counterfeiting intersects with other financial crimes like fraud, forgery, and theft. An inexperienced lawyer could overlook legal nuances that make or break your defense.This is why you need a top-tier federal criminal defense firm like Spodek Law Group on your side from day one. Our attorneys have taken on – and won – countless counterfeiting and white collar cases in federal courts across the nation.
Building an Aggressive Defense Strategy
So what exactly goes into a strong defense against counterfeiting charges? Here are some key elements our firm focuses on:
Challenging the evidence: We comb through every detail, looking for holes in the prosecution’s case. Did law enforcement properly handle evidence? Were search and seizure protocols followed? We look for any potential constitutional violations or mishandling that could get evidence thrown out.
Questioning intent: As mentioned, intent is critical for a conviction. We work tirelessly to undermine the prosecution’s arguments about your alleged intent to defraud through:
- Interviews and testimony from witnesses
- Analysis of financial records and transactions
- Recreating the timeline and circumstances around the alleged crime
Our goal is to raise reasonable doubt that you knowingly committed counterfeiting.
Negotiating for reduced charges: In some cases, we can get charges reduced or even dismissed by identifying misstating circumstances or working out a favorable plea bargain. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who explore every possible avenue for a positive resolution.
Thorough trial preparation: If it goes to trial, you can be confident we will be the most prepared team in the courtroom. We handle everything from jury selection to cross-examination of witnesses to presenting compelling arguments in your defense.No matter how complex the allegations, our firm has the expertise to dismantle the prosecution’s case piece-by-piece. We leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice for our clients.
When Federal Agents Come Knocking
If federal agents contact you about counterfeiting suspicions, the first and most crucial step is to avoid speaking with them until you have legal representation. 1Anything you say can potentially be used against you, even if you are innocent or simply trying to be cooperative and honest. Federal investigators are trained to extract incriminating statements.The moment you become aware of an investigation, call an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. This is not the time to gamble and represent yourself.At Spodek Law Group, we offer free confidential consultations to discuss allegations and start building a defense strategy right away. Our rapid response team is available 24/7 to protect your rights.
More Than Just Counterfeiting Money
While counterfeiting currency is one of the most common white collar crime charges, our firm defends clients against the full spectrum of financial crime allegations, including:
- Bank fraud
- Tax evasion
- Embezzlement
- Money laundering
- Securities fraud
- Mail and wire fraud
- Racketeering (RICO)
- Corporate fraud
No matter how complex the scheme or allegations, our attorneys have the financial crime experience and resources to dismantle the prosecution’s case. We routinely take on and win high-stakes federal cases involving millions or even billions of dollars.If you or your business is under investigation or has been charged with any type of white collar crime, call Spodek Law Group immediately for a free consultation. The sooner we can get involved, the better we can protect your rights and interests.
Why Hire a Private Firm Like Spodek Law Group?
You may be wondering if you really need to hire a private criminal defense firm for counterfeiting charges. Can’t a public defender represent you?While public defenders are certainly qualified attorneys, the reality is their offices are overworked and underfunded. They simply lack the time and resources to provide the focused, individualized attention your case deserves.In contrast, Spodek Law Group‘s entire practice is dedicated to aggressive criminal defense representation. Our attorneys have:
- Extensive experience handling federal counterfeiting and white collar cases
- A strong track record of winning at trial and negotiating favorable plea deals
- Ample resources to conduct thorough investigations and case preparation
- A real financial incentive to achieve the best possible outcome for you
When you hire our firm, you get a committed legal team giving your case the utmost attention and effort. We see you as an individual, not just another case file.Our attorneys take a hands-on approach from day one, digging into every detail of the allegations against you. We hold regular strategy meetings to ensure we are exploring every possible defense angle.You also gain access to our network of expert witnesses, forensic accountants, investigators and other key resources to strengthen your case.
In short, we have the skills, experience and dedication to go toe-to-toe with federal prosecutors – and win. Defending your rights and future is our top priority.
