Theoretical and Practical Considerations Regarding the Material Object of the Money Laundering Crime

Abstract

The present study analyzes the content of the material object of the money laundering crime. It considers the particularities of its determination in the legal framing process, which is a mandatory prerequisite for applying criminal law in accordance with the principle of legality. Proper knowledge of the material subject matter is also necessary for distinguishing the money laundering offense from similar offenses. Establishing a threshold value of lege ferenda for assets forming the material object of the money laundering offense contravenes standards for preventing and combating money laundering. Implementing these standards is essential for European states' jurisdictions. The research promoted the idea that the material object of the money laundering offense is “property constituting illicit proceeds” and that “documents or legal acts containing information on nature, origin, location, disposition, transfer, or ownership of property or rights to property constituting illicit proceeds” are means of committing the offense.