Facing a federal charge can feel overwhelming. The federal system often moves faster and involves more serious penalties. Investigators can spend years building a case and compiling evidence against you. By the time they’ve filed charges, there is no way out.
At least that’s how federal prosecutors want you to feel. The truth is, you have rights, and the burden of proof is on them. Our Newport Beach federal crimes lawyers can investigate your charges, look for ways to challenge the evidence, and potentially prove your innocence.
Our team at Simmrin Law Group has served thousands of clients and handled over 100 jury trials. Call today for your free and confidential case evaluation and find out how our Newport Beach criminal defense lawyers can help with your federal charges.
What Makes a Charge Federal?
A charge becomes federal when the alleged crime violates U.S. federal laws rather than just state laws like those in California. This typically occurs when the offense crosses state lines, involves federal property or agencies, or affects interstate or national interests.
Examples of crimes often prosecuted at the federal level include drug trafficking, wire fraud, immigration violations, and offenses involving federal programs or funding.
In some cases, the same conduct could be prosecuted under either state or federal law. However, federal authorities usually take over when the case has wider national implications, involves more complicated legal issues, or carries more severe penalties.
For a free legal consultation with a federal crimes lawyer serving Newport Beach, call (310) 896-2723
Do You Need an Attorney for a Federal Crime?
If you’re charged with a federal offense, hiring an attorney is extremely important. Experienced U.S. Attorneys handle federal cases. Without legal representation, you risk making decisions that could hurt your case.
Our Newport Beach federal crimes attorneys can protect your rights, review the evidence, challenge unlawful actions, and guide you through each step in the legal process.
Don’t try to take on the federal government on your own. The stakes are high, and the consequences can follow you for the rest of your life. Contact our team today and get the help you need.
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Are Federal Charges Worse than State Charges?
Federal charges are often more serious than state charges, though it depends on the specific crime and circumstances. Some of the ways a federal charge can be tougher include:
- Federal prosecutors usually handle fewer cases than state prosecutors and have access to extensive investigative resources through agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, and Homeland Security.
- Federal crimes are subject to the U.S. Sentencing Commission guidelines, which often impose longer prison sentences than those given in state court. Mandatory minimums are common, especially in drug, weapons, and white collar cases.
- In federal prison, there is no parole. Defendants serve at least 85% of their sentence, unlike some state systems where early release is more common.
- Federal cases involve stricter procedural rules and complex pretrial processes, making them harder to understand without an experienced federal defense attorney.
- A federal conviction often carries more lasting consequences, including longer incarceration, larger fines, loss of professional licenses, and restrictions on future employment and housing.
This doesn’t mean state charges aren’t serious, but the federal system generally leaves less room for negotiation or leniency. If you’re facing a federal charge, it’s important to be ready for a more rigorous legal process with potentially greater consequences.
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Can You Be Charged With Both a State and Federal Offense?
Yes, you can be charged in both state and federal court for the same conduct. This is called dual sovereignty. State and federal governments are separate systems, so one can prosecute you even if the other already has.
For example, if you’re accused of drug trafficking, the state might charge you under California law while the federal government brings its own case under federal law. This can lead to two trials, two sets of penalties, and double the stress.
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Common Federal Crimes
Our federal crimes lawyers in Newport Beach handle a wide range of federal crimes. Common federal offenses we see include:
- Drug Trafficking: This involves the illegal production, distribution, or transportation of controlled substances across state or national borders, often involving large quantities, organized operations, and severe federal penalties.
- Fraud, including Wire and Mail Fraud: It is illegal to use deceit to unlawfully obtain money or property through electronic communications or postal services, often targeting businesses, individuals, or government programs.
- Firearms Offenses: You can be charged with crimes involving the illegal possession, sale, transport, or use of firearms, often prosecuted federally when weapons cross state lines or involve prohibited individuals.
- Immigration Offenses: Violations of federal immigration laws, including illegal entry, visa fraud, document forgery, or harboring undocumented immigrants, often result in deportation or imprisonment.
- White Collar Crimes: Non-violent, financially motivated crimes committed by individuals or businesses, such as embezzlement, insider trading, and bribery, typically involve complex schemes and large financial losses.
Get Legal Help from Our Newport Beach Federal Crimes Attorneys
Federal charges are extremely serious, with the potential to impact your life for years into the future. That doesn’t mean you have to accept what the government has in store for you. From the moment you notice signs that you are under federal investigation, get legal representation.
Our Newport Beach federal crimes attorneys will evaluate your case and look for ways to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. Our goal is to minimize the impact of your charge, but in the best-case situation, we can get your charges dismissed or prove your innocence in court.
For more than two decades, Simmrin Law Group has advocated for people charged with state and federal crimes in California. Call today for your free and confidential case evaluation.
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