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Sunrise Counterfeit Currency Charges Lawyers
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Dealing with Counterfeit Money Charges in Sunrise
Getting charged with counterfeiting money can be scary. Believe me, I know. My name’s John and I’m a criminal defense lawyer working out of Sunrise, Florida. I’ve worked with tons of good people who somehow wound up in the wrong place at the wrong time with fake cash they didn’t even realize was counterfeit. It happens more than you’d think.
In this article, I want to walk through exactly what to do if you or someone you care about gets slapped with counterfeit currency charges in the Sunrise area. I’ll give an overview of how these charges work, common defenses we use, and what to expect if your case heads to court. I know it’s a stressful situation, but having the right information can make all the difference.
An Overview of Counterfeit Charges in Florida
There’s a few laws in Florida that make it illegal to possess or pass counterfeit bills. The main offenses fall under Florida statutes 831.01 through 831.031. I’ll break the key ones down:
Having tools to make fake money – It’s a felony under 831.031 to own tools and machines to actually manufacture phony cash. We’re talking printing plates, security paper, etc.
Passing off phony bills – If you try to directly exchange a fake $20 for goods at a store, that’s considered “uttering” counterfeit bills under 831.02. This is a felony too.
Just having fake cash – Believe it or not, simply having counterfeit bills in your wallet or purse is enough to face misdemeanor charges under 831.01. It’s a weaker charge but still illegal.
The penalties really vary case by case. For misdemeanors, you’ll likely just get probation or community service. But felonies can mean years behind bars, huge fines, and a lifelong criminal record. So it’s vital to take these charges seriously, no matter what.
Common Defenses Against Counterfeit Charges
Luckily, there’s a few solid defenses that an experienced lawyer can use to fight counterfeit currency accusations. I’ve had tons of success beating these charges by showing:
You didn’t know the cash was fake – Unless there’s rock solid proof you intentionally passed bad bills, then you can’t be convicted under 831.02 for uttering. We’d argue you accepted the bills without realizing they were phony.
No evidence you made the bills – With manufacturing charges under 831.031, the state needs to show you actively created the fake cash. Just having it in your possession often isn’t enough.
Illegal search led to the bogus bills being found – If police uncover counterfeit currency through an unconstitutional search of your home or car, we can often get that thrown out of court. It’s known as “fruit of the poisonous tree.
“I can’t guarantee which defenses will work best for you. But with an open line of communication about what really happened, I can usually figure out an argument that gives us our best shot at beating the charges.
What to Expect if Your Case Goes to Trial
I always prepare my clients for the possibility of going to trial. Even though over 90% of criminal cases end in plea deals or get dismissed, you gotta be ready to fight these accusations before a judge or jury if you have to.Here’s a quick rundown of how a counterfeit currency trial tends to shake out:
Opening statements – The prosecutor gives their theory of why you’re guilty then I lay out our defense arguments. This sets the narrative.
State’s case – Police or Secret Service agents would testify about finding the phony cash and why they think you knew it was fake. Forensic experts may examine the bills.
Defense case – We hammer on cross examination, then I’d call witnesses to show you didn’t realize the money was counterfeit. I might bring up improper police work too.
Closing arguments – Last chance for both sides to argue over the evidence and whether the state proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If it’s a jury trial, the jurors would then decide if you’re guilty or not guilty.
I know sitting through a whole trial sounds intimidating. But I’ve been on the defense side dozens of times over my career. I’ll make sure you understand what’s happening every step of the way.
Don’t Panic – Get an Experienced Lawyer in Your Corner
The bottom line is – don’t freak out over counterfeit charges. I know it feels overwhelming but you have rights guaranteed by the US Constitution. With an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Sunrise on your side, analyzing the facts of your case, poking holes in the accusations, and aggressively defending your freedom, there’s an excellent chance we can get these charges reduced or even dismissed.
I totally understand money’s probably tight if you’re facing criminal accusations. But don’t let that stop you from seeking help. I offer flexible payment plans and will never judge someone just because they’re going through financial struggles.
My passion is protecting regular people who wound up on the wrong end of the law. I became a lawyer to give folks a fair shake against the power of the state coming down on them. If you or someone you love just got slapped with fake money charges in the Sunrise area, pick up the phone and call me. Getting proactive with an expert lawyer on your defense team ASAP gives you the best possible odds of beating this and moving on with your life.
I know you’re scared and unsure about what happens next. But you don’t need to handle this alone. Call me at 555-555-5555 or shoot me an email at john@sunriselawgroup.com. I promise we’ll get through this together. Don’t wait! Reach out now so I can start protecting your future.