Crypto Fraud Defense

Introduction: Crypto Crimes and Criminal Defense

The anonymous nature of cryptocurrency makes it attractive not only to investors but also to heightened scrutiny from law enforcement agencies. In Georgia, criminal cases involving cybercrime, money laundering via crypto, financial pyramids, and fraudulent schemes are becoming increasingly common. "Crypto Fraud Defense" is a specialized legal service focused on defending individuals accused of economic crimes involving digital assets. Such cases require a lawyer who not only understands criminal law but can also analyze blockchain transactions and refute the prosecution's technical evidence.

This service also covers the protection of victims' interests—representing them during the investigation to identify the perpetrator and recover damages. Qualified legal intervention is critical at the very first stage, as electronic evidence (logs, IP addresses) can be destroyed over time.

What Crypto Fraud Defense Services Cover

The service covers all stages of the criminal process for both the accused and the victim:

• Defense Against Charges: Advocacy in cases such as fraud (Article 180), legalization of illegal income (money laundering), cybercrime, and illegal entrepreneurial activity with cryptocurrency.
• Blockchain Forensics: Conducting blockchain expertise to trace transactions or debunk the prosecution's alleged scheme.
• Victim Representation: Filing complaints with the Prosecutor's Office, requesting victim status, and filing a civil lawsuit within the criminal process for damage compensation.
• Asset Recovery: Locating fraudulently obtained crypto assets and securing freezing orders.
• Interrogation Consultations: Preparing clients for and attending investigative actions to ensure their procedural rights are protected.

Common Scenarios and Use Cases

Criminal disputes in the crypto sphere often relate to the following scenarios:

• Money Laundering Accusation: An individual received crypto from abroad and cashed it out. The investigation claims they participated in laundering "dirty money." The lawyer's goal is to prove the individual's bona fide intent.
• Financial Pyramid: A company attracted investments into a crypto project that collapsed. Founders are accused of fraud. The defense must prove it was a business failure, not a premeditated crime.
• Phishing and Hacking: A client is accused of hacking someone else's crypto wallet. Technical expertise is needed to prove that the IP address match is coincidental or the result of a VPN.
• Misappropriation of Investment: A victim transferred money to a "broker" who cut off contact. The lawyer works with the investigation to find the culprit.

Georgian Legislation and Regulations

The primary legal act is the Criminal Code of Georgia. The most frequently applied articles are: Article 180 (Fraud), Article 194 (Money Laundering), and Articles 284-286 (Cybercrimes). The Criminal Procedure Code governs procedural aspects. Also important is the Law on Operative-Search Activities, which regulates electronic surveillance and data acquisition rules. International legal mutual assistance mechanisms (e.g., cooperation with Europol) are often used in crypto crime investigations.

Process of Working with a Specialist

Working on a criminal case requires immediate response:

1. Urgent Consultation: Reviewing case materials and developing an initial strategy (right to silence vs. cooperation).
2. Evidence Collection: Conducting alternative expertise and interviewing witnesses.
3. Negotiation with Prosecution: Discussing the possibility of a plea bargain or diversion.
4. Court Defense: Representation during bail hearings and the trial on merits.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Crypto crime is an area where a standard criminal lawyer may be powerless due to a lack of technical knowledge. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers specialized in cybercrime and financial fraud, increasing the chances of acquittal or asset recovery.