Money Laundering Lawyer New Jersey, NJ

Facing a money laundering charge in New Jersey – whether at the state level under state law or in federal district court under 18 U.S.C. § 1956 – can place a person’s liberty, profession, and financial standing at immediate risk. Money laundering accusations involve complex financial records, voluminous discovery, and prosecutors who often bring companion charges such as conspiracy, racketeering, or theft. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on criminal defense in New Jersey and across four other jurisdictions, with Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys providing representation to individuals under investigation or already charged. The firm’s New Jersey location in Tinton Falls serves clients statewide, from Bergen County to Cape May County. If you are under scrutiny or have been charged, contact the firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Money Laundering Means in New Jersey

New Jersey prosecutes money laundering as an indictable offense under state law. The statute makes it a crime to conduct or attempt to conduct a financial transaction knowing that the property involved represents the proceeds of unlawful activity, with the intent to promote that activity or to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of the proceeds. The degree of the crime – and therefore the sentencing exposure – depends on the amount of money or property involved. A conviction may result in a term of incarceration and substantial fines. Because New Jersey abolished cash bail under the Criminal Justice Reform Act of 2017, pretrial release decisions are based on a Public Safety Assessment rather than a defendant’s ability to post money.

Money laundering charges are typically investigated by the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, county prosecutor’s offices, or joint task forces with federal agencies. Indictments are returned to the Superior Court, Law Division – Criminal Part, in the vicinage where the alleged offense occurred. The same conduct may also be charged federally in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, particularly when transactions cross state lines, involve federally insured institutions, or exceed certain dollar thresholds. Federal money laundering carries separate sentencing guidelines and, unlike the New Jersey system, no parole. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are admitted in New Jersey and also handle federal matters in the District of New Jersey, so clients receive a cohesive defense strategy across both sovereigns.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Money Laundering Cases

Representation begins with an immediate review of the charging instrument, the investigative affidavits, and the financial records that the government intends to use. The defense team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. works to identify constitutional, procedural, and evidentiary issues – such as whether the government established the required tracing between the funds and a specified unlawful activity, whether the transaction involved proceeds and not clean money, and whether any statements were obtained in violation of Miranda or the New Jersey Rules of Evidence.

The firm prioritizes early engagement with the prosecutor’s office. In many New Jersey counties, experienced criminal defense lawyers can pursue pretrial intervention (PTI) for first‑time defendants charged with certain second‑degree offenses, provided statutory conditions are met. When a resolution is not possible, the firm prepares each case as though it will be tried, conducting forensic accounting analysis, retaining financial attorneys as needed, and filing appropriate motions to suppress or dismiss. Every decision is discussed transparently with the client, and the firm works toward the most favorable outcome achievable under the facts and the law.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he regularly appears in New Jersey Superior Court and the District of New Jersey on behalf of clients facing serious white‑collar and financial-crime charges. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. The team understands that money laundering investigations often unfold over weeks or months before charges are filed, and that early legal involvement can influence the direction of the case. Clients who engage the firm receive direct communication and a strategy tailored to the specific allegations they face.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between New Jersey state money laundering and federal money laundering?

State money laundering is charged under state law and prosecuted in New Jersey Superior Court, while federal money laundering is charged under 18 U.S.C. § 1956 and prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Both require proof that a financial transaction involved proceeds of unlawful activity. Federal charges often involve larger amounts, interstate conduct, or financial institutions, and federal sentencing guidelines apply. Because New Jersey has no parole for state prison sentences imposed for certain crimes, both systems carry substantial incarceration exposure. A single set of facts can trigger both state and federal charges, making coordinated representation essential.

Is money laundering an indictable offense in New Jersey?

Yes, money laundering under state law is an indictable offense, which is the New Jersey equivalent of a felony. Indictable crimes are heard in the Superior Court, Law Division – Criminal Part, after a grand jury returns an indictment. Depending on the dollar value and circumstances, the charge may be graded as a first‑degree or second‑degree crime, each carrying a significant potential prison sentence. Because the case proceeds in Superior Court, a defendant is entitled to a jury trial and all procedural protections of the New Jersey Rules of Court.

Should I speak with law enforcement if I am under investigation for money laundering?

You should not speak with law enforcement about a money laundering investigation without first consulting an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Statements made to investigators, even those given in an effort to explain transactions, can be used against you at trial. Law enforcement may present a case as routine or suggest that cooperation will help; however, you have the right to remain silent and the right to have counsel present. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to discuss your situation confidentially before making any statement or signing any document.

How does the bail system work for money laundering charges in New Jersey?

New Jersey abolished cash bail in January 2017 under the Criminal Justice Reform Act, so pretrial release is determined by a computerized Public Safety Assessment (PSA) rather than the ability to pay a monetary bail amount. The PSA evaluates flight risk and danger to the community. A judge may order release on conditions, pretrial monitoring, or, in cases where no conditions can reasonably ensure public safety and appearance, pretrial detention. A detention hearing must be held within a short statutory period after arrest. Counsel can present evidence and argument to advocate for release under the least restrictive conditions.

What should I bring to a consultation with a money laundering defense lawyer?

Bring any documents you have already received from law enforcement or the court, including the complaint, indictment, subpoenas, search warrant returns, and any correspondence from prosecutors, as well as a list of previously retained professionals such as accountants or financial advisors who may have relevant information. Do not attempt to organize or explain documents before the consultation; the lawyer will review them in the context of the investigation. If you have not yet been charged but know you are under investigation, note the date you became aware of the investigation and the agencies involved. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

How can I find a money laundering lawyer near me in New Jersey?

You can find a money laundering defense lawyer by contacting Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to schedule a consultation at the firm’s Tinton Falls location. The firm represents individuals throughout New Jersey, including Hudson, Bergen, Essex, Union, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, Somerset, Hunterdon, Warren, Morris, Sussex, Passaic, Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, and Salem counties. Consultations are available by appointment, and the firm’s toll‑free line is answered responsive.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris. Results may vary.