There are no defenses specifically applicable to money laundering offenses. Only common criminal law affirmative defenses (error of law, state of necessity, etc.) are potentially applicable, but such defenses are rarely upheld.

However, a person who attempts a money-laundering offense is immune from punishment if they notify the administrative or judicial authorities and thereby prevent the offence. For completed offences, the sentence of the perpetrator or an accomplice is reduced by two-thirds if, after notifying the authorities, they cause the offence to cease and/or help identify other perpetrators or accomplices (Art. 324-6-1 of the French Criminal Code).

Some defenses can however apply to the persons subject to reporting obligations, who reports the money laundering offense. They cannot be prosecuted (Art. L. 561-22 of the French Financial Monetary Code) for slanderous denunciation (Art. 226-10 of the French Criminal Code) or breach of professional secrecy (Art. 226-13 and 226-14 of the French Criminal Code).