Fraud & Financial Crime Lawyers

Facing conviction for a Commonwealth criminal offence? Our legal experts are here to help. 

Quality Representation

With Smiddy-Brown Legal, your case is our priority. We have the experience and dedication. Please feel contact us for a complimentary 15 minute consultation.

With Smiddy-Brown Legal, your case is our priority.

Available 24 hours (08) 9468 3645

Lawyers Specialising in Fraud & Money Laundering

All offences associated with fraud and financial crime are very serious criminal matters. Each  offence varies considerably in circumstances and might typically include the theft and use of another person’s credit card, the falsification of documents, assuming another person’s identity, forgery, or defrauding  the State or Commonwealth.

Matters that the court looks at to determine the seriousness of the matter might include:

 

  • The amount or value of the property involved;
  • The personal circumstances of the victim;
  • The level of premeditation and planning involved and;
  • Whether the offending involved a breach of trust. 

If charged with a financial offence there is a likelihood that you could also face a civil action by the person or business you have allegedly committed the offence against.  This is why Smiddy-Brown Legal is the best solution for you as we are experienced in both defending the criminal charges and defending any civil claim brought against you.

How we can help

I

Call our lawyers for a complimentary consultation

II

Meet with our lawyers and we will provide immediate advice and an outline of costs

III

Be represented by a strong team throughout the legal process focussed on getting the best outcome for you

Contact us today to speak to our lawyers

We have the experience and expertise to represent you through all the legal processes, procedures and technicalities to protect your legal rights and achieve the best possible outcome for you.  

Call our lawyers on (08) 9468 3645 and relax with confidence knowing that your matter is in good hands.

Meet Our Team

Meet our team of dedicated legal professionals, each bringing unique expertise and a commitment to providing unparalleled service and support to our clients.
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Carolyn Smiddy-Brown

Director, Solicitor and Barrister

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Robert Jamieson

Solicitor and Barrister

Money laundering penalties in Australia are severe, reflecting the seriousness of the offence. Under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), penalties vary based on the value of the money or property involved and the offender’s level of knowledge:

  • For individuals: Penalties range from six months imprisonment and/or fines for amounts less than AUD 10,000, to life imprisonment and/or fines up to 2,000 penalty units (AUD 6,260,000) for amounts of AUD 10 million or more.
  • For corporations: Fines can reach up to 10,000 penalty units (AUD 31,300,000).

These penalties underscore the importance of compliance with anti-money laundering laws. 

The minimum sentence for money laundering offences in Australia depends on the specifics of the case, including the amount involved and the offender’s intent. For amounts less than AUD 10,000, individuals may face penalties of six to 12 months imprisonment and/or fines up to 30 penalty units (AUD 9,390). However, sentencing is at the court’s discretion, considering factors like the offender’s criminal history and the offence’s circumstances.

In Australia, there is no specific monetary threshold that defines money laundering. Any attempt to conceal, disguise, or convert illicit funds, regardless of the amount, can constitute money laundering. However, penalties escalate with the value of the money or property involved, with more severe penalties for higher amounts.

If accused of money laundering in Australia, the process typically involves:

  1. Investigation: Law enforcement agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC), and AUSTRAC conduct investigations.
  2. Charges: If sufficient evidence exists, charges are laid under relevant legislation, like the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).
  3. Court Proceedings: The accused appears in court, where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
  4. Sentencing: If convicted, penalties are imposed based on factors like the offence’s severity and the amount involved.

It’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly if accused of money laundering.

In Australia, the penalties for money laundering are severe, reflecting the gravity of the offense. Under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), individuals convicted of money laundering can face up to 25 years in prison, depending on the value of the funds involved and the offender’s level of culpability. Specifically, dealing with proceeds of crime worth $1,000,000 or more carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.


However, actual sentences imposed by courts can vary based on the circumstances of each case. Factors such as the amount laundered, the offender’s role in the operation, prior criminal history, and whether they pled guilty can influence the severity of the sentence. It’s essential to consult legal experts familiar with financial crime laws to understand the potential penalties and defences applicable to specific situations.