Digital currency is growing in popularity. Many individuals use crypto or digital currency daily without even realizing it. However, as its popularity has increased, so has federal oversight and concerns about its use in criminal activities.
A Greenville crypto/digital currency federal crime lawyer can help those who are accused of a crypto crime. At Ellis Hinton, LLC, based in Greenville and servicing South Carolina and beyond, our experienced federal criminal attorneys are ready to advocate for you.
Cryptocurrency, also known as digital currency, is a form of money stored digitally. It can be used to make and receive payments, buy, sell, and invest.
Crypto is held in a digital wallet, such as PayPal, Venmo, and Apple Pay. Digital funds have fewer legal protections than those held in a traditional banking institution, are not federally insured, and can be more difficult to track.
Digital currency users need to understand the terms, blockchain” and “private key” and their implications when charged with a federal crypto crime.
Crypto transactions are recorded via a digital ledger known as a blockchain. The blockchain records information about the transaction and can be used to follow digital assets to their source and destination.
Additionally, a private key is an alphanumeric code unique to a user. It gives them access to crypto funds, allows users to manage their funds, authorize transactions, and protects them from unauthorized access.
Digital currency crimes involve cryptocurrency and the Internet and generally cross state lines (interstate commerce). Because of this, they fall under federal jurisdiction.
Any number of federal crimes may implicate cryptocurrency. However, some crimes are more common than others. Money laundering, wire fraud, securities fraud, tax evasion, and terrorist financing are just a few examples of federal crimes that may involve cryptocurrency.
Being charged with a federal crime related to crypto/digital currency can be challenging. The nature of crypto creates unique challenges when raising a defense. However, this also means that the federal prosecutor may face similar difficulties.
In any case, the prosecutor must show that the accused committed and intended to commit a crime. For instance, if the prosecutor brings charges for fraud, but the accused did not intend to commit fraud, or a genuine mistake resulted in a misrepresentation, their digital currency federal crime lawyer in Greenville could argue “lack of intent” or “mistake.”
When you have been accused of a federal crypto crime, it is critical to take quick action. Building a defense for a digital currency crime often involves vast amounts of discovery. Your Greenville cryptocurrency federal crime attorney will need to thoroughly investigate and possibly engage expert witnesses to testify on your behalf.
In addition to investigating and building a solid case, your lawyer will represent you in hearings and during plea negotiations with the prosecution. A dedicated criminal defense attorney will advocate on your behalf, build a strong defense, and fight for your rights.
Finally, your lawyer can represent you during the trial. Presenting your defenses and creating reasonable doubt. Their insights into crypto crimes and the criminal justice process can be essential if you are facing federal charges.
Criminal accusations are serious. Accused individuals may face serious prison time and large financial penalties. Seeking experienced legal assistance is vital to securing a solid defense.
At Ellis Hinton, LLC, our Greenville crypto/digital currency federal crime lawyers use their in-depth knowledge of the federal criminal justice system, network of experts, and keen investigation skills to help their clients proceed with confidence.
Our team includes former federal prosecutors, providing valuable insights into how the prosecution may proceed with your case and suitable defenses. Contact us now for legal assistance.
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