Any crime should be taken seriously. However, if you face charges for a federal crime, there is an even bigger urgency to immediately hire an experienced criminal defense attorney because a conviction could stay with you for the rest of your life. A federal crime conviction can prevent you from qualifying for housing or employment even after you have been released from prison and paid your dues.
When the stakes are high, you need to have the best Fresno criminal defense attorney on your side to protect your legal rights. You need to take every step to avoid a conviction of federal crimes.
Defining “Federal Crime”
A federal crime is any type of crime that violates a United States federal law. Federal crimes can be investigated by different federal agencies, including:
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
Federal agencies generally investigate a crime for months before filing charges. Once the charges are filed against you, it can be difficult for even the most experienced criminal defense lawyer to “catch up” on the months or years of a federal investigation.
This makes it imperative that you immediately hire an experienced Fresno criminal defense attorney as soon as you are contacted by federal investigators. Even if you are not clear as to whether you are being contacted as a suspect or witness, you should still contact an attorney to protect your future.
Common Types of Federal Crimes
There are many different types of federal crimes. The most common types include:
- Mail fraud
- Extortion
- Money laundering
- Tax evasion
- Espionage
- Arson
- RICO
- Child pornography
- Drug trafficking crimes
- Bank robber
- Federal gun offenses
- Counterfeiting charges
- Wire fraud
- Identity theft
- Conspiracy charges
- Forgery
- Healthcare fraud
- Hacking allegations
Federal Sentencing Guidelines
Federal crimes are associated with particularly harsh penalties, so it is imperative that you are legally represented by an attorney who has comprehensive knowledge of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines are found under 18 U.S. Code Section 3553. This section provides federal judges with consistent sentencing ranges based on various factors such as the type of crime committed, the offender’s criminal history, and their characteristics. If the federal judge does not follow these guidelines, they must be able to explain the reasons for their deviation.
This is another reason why it is so important to have an experienced Fresno criminal defense attorney on your side. A skilled and knowledgeable attorney who specifically handles federal crimes will understand the law and make sure the judge and prosecutor follow the law.
Call an Experienced Fresno Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know has a warrant out for their arrest, it is in your best interest to immediately consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you learn about your legal rights and options.
For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with Fresno criminal defense attorney Gurjit Srai, please call (209) 323-5558 or complete our online form.