Defense Against Federal Criminal Charges
If you believe you are being investigated by Federal authorities or have been indicted (charged) with a federal crime, it is critically important that you contact an attorney immediately. Federal criminal allegations are handled in a completely different court system with an entirely different set of laws than in state court, and they require a grand jury be convened before an indictment is handed down. The penalties for violations of federal law are often much more severe than similar violations in state court. Because of this risk, you should not speak with anyone, especially law enforcement or prosecutors without first consulting with a qualified attorney with experience in federal court. At Morris and Hart we are ready to help.
On Your Side At a Critical Time
Anytime the federal government is involved, the stakes are serious. Federal crimes often times carry steep penalties and high mandatory minimum sentences. Federal prosecutors typically file charges that have been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), U.S. Marshal's Service (USMS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. There is no way to create an exhaustive list of crimes that the federal government prosecutes, but the federal government is more likely to prosecute your case if it involves:
- A large quantity or conspiracy involving drugs
- A firearm, particularly if you have already been convicted of a felony or it involves a stolen firearm
- Any allegation involving theft of mail
- Any allegation occurring on a military base
- Any allegation occurring on an Indian reservation
- Any allegation occurring on a National Park
- Child pornography
- Immigration offenses
- Bank robbery
- Fraud, embezzlement or identity theft
- Internet crimes.
In addition, sometimes even if you are not the target of an investigation, federal prosecutors or law enforcement may want to talk with you as a witness or subpoena you to a grand jury. Even in these cases, it is critical that you have experienced counsel helping you so that you do not expose yourself to criminal liability.
Move Forward with Confidence
If you are suspected of or have been charged with a federal crime, you need a qualified and experienced lawyer who will defend your case aggressively and intelligently. In addition, if you are a witness in a federal case, you need an experienced lawyer who will help guide you through the process without exposing you to criminal liability. Contact Morris and Hart by e-mail or call us at 206-801-5162 or toll free at 866-943-9910. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your needs.
