If you need a federal crimes attorney in Costa Mesa, you are probably uncertain about your future. At Simmrin Law Group, we understand how difficult it can be to get charged at a federal level. Federal charges often come with much harsher penalties than state-level charges.
You first need to know: talk to nobody but your lawyer. However, you must talk to a lawyer immediately if you are being charged. When looking for a federal criminal defense lawyer, look for an experienced one that can focus on you and your story and help you get your charges reduced or dismissed.
What is Considered a Federal Crime?
Federal crimes violate U.S. federal criminal laws and are prosecuted by the government of the United States. They include:
- Drug possession
- Drug-related crimes (like distribution)
- Tax evasion
- Money laundering
- Counterfeiting
- Immigration-related offenses
- Murder
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Child pornography
- Treason
For a free legal consultation with a federal crimes lawyer serving Costa Mesa, call (310) 896-2723
Difference Between State and Federal Crimes
The main difference between a state and federal crime is the level of punishment. Federal crimes are usually more serious than state crimes, so they carry much harsher penalties. Federal prosecutors also often take on cases that occurred across multiple states.
Federal charges can sometimes be brought in conjunction with state charges. But often, the state drops their case when the U.S. government takes over. These situations can be tricky if you don’t have a Costa Mesa federal crimes attorney in your corner.
State Crimes
State laws vary from state to state but generally fall into these categories: assault, theft, murder, sex offenses, drug trafficking, drunk driving, or white-collar crimes, such as fraud or embezzlement (stealing money from an organization).
State laws also encompass traffic violations such as DUIs (driving under the influence), speeding tickets, and hit-and-run accidents.
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Federal Crimes Fines and Punishments
The punishment for breaking federal law can be particularly severe. A federal criminal conviction can result in a prison sentence, a fine, or both, and it may also affect your ability to vote, obtain employment, or even possess firearms.
Not to mention that fines for federal crimes can go up to $250,000 per count.
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How Can a Costa Mesa Federal Crimes Lawyer Defend Me?
There are many things a federal crimes attorney in Costa Mesa can do to defend you against a federal charge. Remember that a successful defense depends on the specific situation of any alleged crime. However, an experienced lawyer can detect inconsistencies as:
- Insufficient evidence
- Entrapment
- Mistake of fact
- Self-defense
- Lack of intent
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Can You Get Out of Federal Prison Early?
You can get out of federal prison early in a few ways. While time served is generally part of the sentence, it’s not the only thing that will get you out early. Several good time credits allow inmates to earn their way into halfway houses or home confinement.
These programs can shorten your sentence by months or years. However, there are many crimes prosecuted at the federal level that are also ineligible for early release.
Parole and House Arrest
While parole was abolished in the federal system under the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984, there are possibilities where an inmate can receive a period of supervised release towards the end of their sentence.
This is more in line with a probationary term in a halfway house or home confinement. However, you must qualify under the standards set by federal law and regulation. That could set you up for release, as long as there aren’t any other pending charges or any other significant issues.
In some instances, an individual might be eligible for house arrest instead of serving their entire term behind bars. You should ask a Costa Mesa federal crimes lawyer about your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knowing how severe some punishments can be, the federal system can be scary and confusing. We answer a few frequently asked questions to help you get a better understanding of federal crimes and punishments.
- How Can I Tell the Difference Between a Federal and a State Crime?
- Can a Nonviolent Crime Be a Federal Crime?
- How Hard Are Federal Crime Sentences?
- Can Any Lawyer Defend Me if I Am Charged With a Federal Crime?
- All Federal Crimes End Up in Jail Time, True or False?
How Can I Tell the Difference Between a Federal and a State Crime?
State crimes are handled by local law enforcement and prosecuted by state lawyers or district attorneys. In contrast, federal crimes are investigated by federal dependencies, such as the DEA, FBI, or ICE, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. attorneys. Federal crimes usually bring harder sentences.
Can a Nonviolent Crime Be a Federal Crime?
Yes. The type of crimes that the federal government prosecutes can also be nonviolent, like tax evasion or counterfeiting.
How Hard Are Federal Crime Sentences?
Fines for federal crimes can go up to $250,000 per count, and sentences can go up to life in prison. Besides, you can lose your ability to vote, get a job, and possess firearms.
Can Any Lawyer Defend Me if I Am Charged With a Federal Crime?
Not every law enforcer can prosecute a federal crime. In the same way, not every lawyer can defend you. You need a federal crimes lawyer for this case.
All Federal Crimes End Up in Jail Time, True or False?
False. While most crimes end in convictions that include a period of incarceration, you can also do house arrest or supervised released for some federal crimes. You need to ask your lawyer if your case is eligible.
Get Help From a Federal Crimes Lawyer in Costa Mesa
If you or someone you know has been charged with a federal crime, you should contact a federal crimes lawyer in Costa Mesa to learn more about your rights. The sooner you have legal representation, the better.
The Simmrin Law Group will protect your rights and help ensure that you are treated fairly by the United States government.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form