Federal criminal lawyers are professionals who defend charges for federal defense. If you have committed or have been accused of committing federal crimes, you need a federal defense attorney.
These lawyers understand federal laws and court procedures. They are experienced in building a strong defense and handling complex cases. Their expertise helps protect your rights and improve the case outcome through negotiating.
However, you don’t always need them for every case. It’s important to understand when to hire them to get the best results in a case.
When to Hire A Federal Defense Attorney?
Some crimes are punished or solved based on state laws, while some follow federal laws. For federal crimes, you need a federal attorney.
1. Drug Trafficking in Large Amounts
Are you accused of trafficking drugs in large amounts? Then, you need to hire a federal criminal lawyer as soon as possible. The US Government is strict about drug trafficking, and the punishment is often severe.
This offense involves illegal substances like cocaine, LSD, heroin, or PCP and is a serious crime. A first offense can lead to 5 to 40 years in prison, with higher penalties if death or injury occurs.
A federal criminal lawyer helps with negotiations to minimize penalties and protect your rights. They work to save you from a guilty verdict or prove innocence.
2. Counterfeiting
If facing charges for counterfeiting, hire a federal criminal lawyer. Counterfeiting involves manufacturing, possessing, or using fake money. Possessing tools for counterfeiting is also illegal. Penalties include 5 to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. A good attorney aims to protect your rights and never ask you to plead guilty to something you did not do. They will also help if you are conspiring or dealing with passable fake money.
3. Sex Crimes
Sex crimes under federal law are serious. They are known as aggravated sexual abuse or sexual abuse. If proven guilty, penalties can range from several years to life in prison.
If the victim is a child under 16, the minimum penalty is 30 years. These are the most severe offenses you can face. To increase your chances of a more favorable outcome, hire an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer. Federal agencies, part of the DOJ, handle investigations and evidence for these cases.
4. Homicide
Murder is the unlawful killing of someone often with malice aforethought. It includes planned, deliberate, and premeditated acts or killings during other serious crimes. Federal murder cases are rare but involve high-profile investigations.
These crimes can occur on ships, airplanes, or military bases, where federal jurisdiction applies. Federal murder charges can be classified as first-degree or second-degree.
Facing these charges requires an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer. They can provide the best defense and help achieve a positive outcome.
5. Money Laundering
Money laundering involves hiding the source of illegally obtained money through financial transactions. It’s a serious federal crime. The crime is often added to other federal charges.
You need the support of a federal defense attorney to defend you. With experience, they can often resolve cases before charges are even filed. Whether you are a business owner, banker, or healthcare provider, they can help you.
The US Constitution preserves everyone’s life, including someone accused of crimes. Your lawyer will ensure you are not getting more than the required punishment. Whatmore, they also try to negotiate and reduce the punishment.
6. Charges of Illegal Weapons
Illegal weapons charges under federal law are serious offenses. These include unlawful possession of firearms, firearms trafficking, and using weapons in violent crimes or fraud.
Penalties can be severe for such crimes. As per federal laws, you may get up to 15 years of prison sentences. However, that’s not always the punishment. Federal defense attorneys can help mitigate the penalties.
They are aware of complex federal laws and know how to navigate the legal system. Based on the situation, they will try to establish a scenario where your crime may seem less fatal. This can help get a more suitable punishment.
7. Federal Grand Larceny
In simple terms, it’s like stealing something. In legal words, grand larceny is taking something highly expensive that is not yours. The federal courts are usually not concerned about small or minor stealing. When something of utmost importance is stolen, federal laws might take it into their hands.
Grand larceny differs from petit larceny. Theft of properties worth less than $1000 is considered petit larceny. So, to be considered a federal crime, it has to be a property theft of more than $1000. In such cases, a federal defense attorney is needed. The list includes:
- Secret scientific material
- One or more firearms
- A motor vehicle priced more than $1000
- Property valued at more than $3,000
- An automated teller machine or its contents
- A telephone access device, etc.
Conclusion
Federal criminal cases require the help of federal criminal lawyers. Whether you really committed the crime or not, you still need them. With their expertise and knowledge, they will work to help get the best outcome.