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Money Laundering Charges in San Diego Attorney
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By Jason Ronis, Criminal Defense Attorney · CA Bar #229628Updated November 2026
Money laundering means moving, spending, or hiding money the government says came from a crime. Federal laws include 18 USC 1956 (up to 20 years) and 18 USC 1957 (up to 10 years), plus bank-report laws. The government can also freeze or take your money. Jason Ronis Law defends these cases in San Diego. Call or text {PHONE}, free, day or night.
What Are Money Laundering Charges in San Diego? A Simple Explanation
Money laundering is moving, spending, or hiding money that came from a crime so it looks clean. You can face federal charges, California charges, or both. The money does not have to be yours. Helping someone else move it can be enough if you knew where it came from.
The Main Money Laundering Laws: 18 USC 1956, 1957, and Related Crimes
| Law | In plain words | Top prison time |
|---|---|---|
| 18 USC 1956 | Moving money to hide it, promote a crime, or avoid a report | Up to 20 years |
| 18 USC 1957 | Spending more than $10,000 of crime money | Up to 10 years |
| 31 USC 5324 (structuring) | Breaking up deposits to avoid a bank report | Up to 5 years or more |
| 31 USC 5332 (bulk cash) | Hiding over $10,000 in cash when crossing the border | Up to 5 years |
| Cal. Penal Code 186.10 | California money laundering | County jail or state prison |
See our page on the 18 USC 1957 law.
How Money Laundering Cases Start in San Diego
Most start with another investigation, such as drugs, fraud, or a border arrest. Others start with a bank alert, a large cash deposit, or cash found at an airport or port. Note that structuring can be a crime even when the money is legal, if the goal was to avoid a bank report.
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Money Laundering and Seized Money: Bank Accounts, Cash, and Cars
The government can freeze or take money and property tied to these cases. Seizure letters set a deadline to fight back, often 35 days or more. Read asset forfeiture, airport cash seizures, forfeiture notice deadlines, and getting a car back after a seizure.
How We Defend Money Laundering Charges in San Diego
- You did not know the money came from a crime.
- The money was legitimate. We trace it with bank, business, and tax records.
- No crime behind the money.
- No intent to hide the money or promote a crime.
- Structuring. You did not know about the report rule, or did not mean to avoid it.
- Illegal searches or improperly obtained bank records.
- Better outcomes. Fewer counts, no forfeiture, a smaller role.
What Happens in a Federal Money Laundering Case
- Arrest or summons, then a first court date.
- A detention hearing, where a judge decides if you go home.
- An indictment, usually within 30 days.
- Motions, plea talks, or trial.
- Sentencing under federal guidelines.
Federal cases in San Diego are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, at 333 W. Broadway. See what happens after a federal arrest and getting someone out of jail.
What to Do If You Are Under Investigation or a Bank Closed Your Account
Do not move money around to “protect” it. Keep every record. Federal agents may visit you in a friendly way. You can still ask for a lawyer. Related reading: drug conspiracy charges, drug trafficking defense, drug offenses in San Diego County, and our criminal defense attorney.
What Clients Say
Real Google reviews from people who called us when they were scared and unsure.
“He communicated clearly, guided me through every step, and fought hard to get me the best possible outcome. I felt supported, informed, and never judged.”
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Ethan C.Google review“Jason and his team followed up extremely well during my whole process. He is very communicative and explored anything that I brought up.”
Jenny G.Google reviewReviews are from past clients. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
More Quick Answers
Short answers to other things people ask us.
What are money laundering charges?
They are charges that you moved, spent, or hid money from a crime. Call (619) 859-2002 for a free consultation.
What is the penalty for federal money laundering?
Up to 20 years under 18 USC 1956 and up to 10 years under 18 USC 1957, plus fines and loss of money.
Is structuring a crime if the money is legal?
It can be, if the goal was to avoid a bank report.
Can I be charged if I only helped someone move money?
Yes, if the government proves you knew the money came from a crime.
Can the government take my bank account?
Often yes, through seizure and forfeiture. We can fight it. Deadlines are short.
How do I prove my money is clean?
With bank, business, and tax records that show the source. Gather them and call us.
Is there a California money laundering law?
Yes. California Penal Code 186.10 covers state charges.
Should I talk to agents?
No. Say you want a lawyer and call (619) 859-2002.
Do you speak Spanish?
Sí. Se habla español. Call or text (619) 859-2002.
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