Federal criminal charges cover a wide range of conduct that violates U.S. laws and regulations. These offenses are prosecuted in federal courts and can result in serious penalties, including prison time, fines, and long-term consequences. A federal criminal defense lawyer has invaluable knowledge and experience regarding federal criminal charges and the trial process. While each case is different, the following are some of the more common types of federal charges individuals may face.
- Drug Trafficking and Distribution Offenses
Drug-related crimes at the federal level usually involve large-scale operations, interstate activity, or violations of federal drug schedules. Charges often stem from the distribution, manufacture, or transportation of substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl. Federal agencies such as the DEA may be involved in investigations, and sentencing tends to be more severe than similar state-level offenses due to mandatory minimums and sentencing guidelines. Having experienced legal guidance on your side is imperative when facing these serious charges.
- White Collar Crimes
Federal prosecutors often pursue financial crimes that involve fraud or deception for financial gain. These include wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud, healthcare fraud, and embezzlement. These cases can involve businesses, public officials, or individuals accused of misusing funds, falsifying records, or participating in schemes to defraud others. Agencies like the SEC, IRS, and FBI frequently investigate white collar cases.
- Firearms Violations
Certain firearms charges fall under federal jurisdiction, especially those involving illegal possession by prohibited individuals, trafficking across state lines, or possession during the commission of another federal crime. Charges may include illegal firearm sales, possession of unregistered weapons, or use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
- Tax Evasion and Tax Fraud
Failing to file tax returns, underreporting income, or falsifying deductions can lead to charges at the federal level. The IRS investigates these offenses, and they are prosecuted when there’s evidence of willful misconduct. Convictions can result in fines, prison time, and civil penalties in addition to criminal consequences.
- Property Crime Under Federal Law
While many property crimes are handled at the state level, some fall under federal jurisdiction. These include theft or vandalism that occurs on federal property, crosses state lines, or involves federal programs. For example, stealing government property or damaging a national monument may be prosecuted in federal court. Burglary rings that operate across state lines may also face federal charges. These are very particular charges that require the specialized knowledge and experience of a property crimes lawyer.
- Cybercrime and Computer-Related Offenses
Cybercrimes such as identity theft, hacking, and computer fraud are often prosecuted federally, especially when they affect interstate commerce or involve protected systems. Offenses can include unauthorized access to data, theft of intellectual property, or use of phishing schemes to steal personal information.
- Conspiracy Charges
Federal conspiracy charges are brought when two or more people are alleged to have agreed to commit a crime and took steps toward that goal. These are often added to other charges such as drug trafficking or fraud and can increase penalties significantly.
Contact A Lawyer Today
Attorneys such as our friends at Stechschulte Nell can attest to how overwhelming federal charges may seem at first, especially when multiple counts are involved. Working with an experienced attorney can help individuals address the charges with a clear plan based on the facts and applicable law.
Each type of charge comes with its own procedures, rules of evidence, and potential outcomes. While federal cases can be different from state cases in scope and consequences, being aware of the general categories of offenses can be a first step in building a defense strategy.