Federal crimes are different from state-level crimes and typically carry much harsher criminal sentences. If you are currently facing federal-level criminal charges, you need a Tustin criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and freedoms.
The federal government vigorously pursues these types of crimes, so it’s in your best interest to find knowledgeable and experienced legal counsel. The attorneys at Simmrin Law Group have decades of combined experience in criminal law and are familiar with trying cases in federal courts.
Let us show you why countless individuals have chosen us to defend their liberties. Contact us today for a case consultation with a Tustin federal crimes lawyer.
Difference Between State and Federal Crimes
Most crimes are state-level crimes, meaning that they are charged by individual states and processed according to state laws. Federal crimes, in contrast, are crimes that are investigated and charged by the federal government.
State crimes refer to criminal activity at the local level. Federal crimes are defined as criminal behavior that is of national interest or that crosses state lines. Typically, the federal government will investigate crimes when they involve substantial sums of money, sophisticated criminal organization, or interstate criminal activity.
Federal crimes are typically investigated by federal agencies like the FBI, ATF, and Department of Homeland Security. These agencies often coordinate with state and local law enforcement to share information and resources.
For a free legal consultation with a federal crimes lawyer serving Tustin, call (310) 896-2723
Examples of Crimes Commonly Charged at a Federal Level
If a crime occurs on federal property or involves activity that crosses from one state into another, it falls under federal jurisdiction and can be charged as a federal offense. Common examples of crimes that are commonly charged at a federal level include:
- Fraud and embezzlement. Fraud and embezzlement frequently involve complex systems of financial transactions that cross state lines, triggering federal jurisdiction.
- Drug trafficking. Drug trafficking can become a federal crime when drugs cross state lines for commercial purposes.
- Weapons crimes. Weapons crimes involve violations of federal weapons laws, typically in the context of committing another crime, like drug trafficking.
- Money laundering. Individuals can face money laundering charges if they use proceeds generated from criminal activity and attempt to conceal the activity.
- Racketeering. Federal racketeering charges can be brought against criminal enterprises that engage in organized interstate activity.
- Computer and cybercrime. Crimes carried out using computers and other digital means, like hacking or digital child pornography, are often charged as federal crimes.
- Bank robbery. Most bank robberies are charged as federal crimes, as banks are federal entities and robbing them poses a national security risk.
One significant difference with federal-level crime is the depth of the investigation. Federal prosecutors have significantly more resources at hand than state-level organizations, so criminal investigations are extremely thorough and comprehensive.
The result is that federal criminal charges have a significantly higher conviction rate than state-level charges. A Tustin federal crimes lawyer can create a powerful defense strategy to meet the prosecution’s accusations and work towards a case dismissal or charge reduction.
Tustin Federal Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Penalties for Federal Crimes Are Significantly Harsher
The penalties for federal crimes are significantly harsher than their state counterparts. For example, drug trafficking convictions in California can carry up to five years in prison, while federal drug trafficking convictions under 21 USC 841 can carry up to 20 years in prison.
Factors that can influence penalties include:
- The nature and severity of the criminal violation.
- The defendant’s prior criminal history.
- Aggravating circumstances (e.g., number of victims, use of violence, etc.)
Because federal crimes have mandatory minimums, judges have far less discretion in sentencing. This means you are significantly more likely to receive a prison sentence for a federal conviction. The reason for the harsher sentencing is that federal offenders are seen as a danger to national interests.
Additionally, the statute of limitations for federal crimes may be different than their state counterparts. So even if the state cannot prosecute you, the federal government might still be able to bring a case.
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Can I Face State and Federal Charges for the Same Crime?
The US practices the doctrine of dual sovereignty, so state governments and the federal government can try an individual for the same crime without violating double jeopardy rules.
If an individual is convicted under both state and federal laws, they can incur both state and federal prison sentences, served either concurrently or consecutively.
Dual sovereignty means that you can still face federal charges, even if the state drops charges or you are acquitted in state court. The additional layer of risk means that hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is even more important in cases when you are facing federal criminal charges.
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Contact a Federal Crimes Lawyer in Tustin From Simmrin Law Group
A conviction for a federal crime can completely upend your life and have lasting consequences. You need an experienced defense attorney willing to use every strategy to secure a favorable resolution. At Simmrin Law Group, we are committed to defending our clients and won’t rest until we have exhausted every available avenue.
Contact our offices online or call today to schedule a case evaluation with a federal crimes lawyer in Tustin.
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