Are You Being Targeted for an Investigation?

Federal charges differ from state charges in that the penalties are usually harsher, the financial consequences are more devastating, there is a different jail system, and you may suffer massive harm to your reputation. If you are facing federal charges, you may or may not be aware that you are a target and hire a federal criminal defense attorney. In general, most people learn they are under federal investigation as they are being arrested, when they are called in to be interviewed by federal agents, or when they receive written notification.

It is imperative that you have a federal criminal defense attorney from Burns & Davis who is familiar with the federal system. Because the stakes are high and the U.S. government is organized, prepared, and has every resource at its disposal, you need an attorney with a track record of success in federal cases. The procedural rules are unique in federal courts as opposed to state courts. This requires knowledge and experience to effectively represent clients charged with a federal crime. Since federal courts still rely on the United States Sentencing Guidelines—which often fails to distinguish higher-level criminals from lower-level players—federal sentences can be harsh.

As an example, allegations of drug crimes or child pornography could bring significantly higher fines and longer terms of imprisonment when prosecuted federally over state charges. The Burns & Davis attorneys understand just how high the stakes are when you are facing federal charges. We can thoroughly investigate the allegations against you, gather evidence, and build the strongest, most solid defense available under the law. If you have been charged federally or even if you think you may be a target of a federal investigation, an attorney from Burns & Davis is ready to help.

What Are the Most Common Types of Federal Crimes?

Federal crimes are those that specifically violate U.S. federal laws, or, in some cases, cross state lines or occur on federal property. Federal offenses are prosecuted by government agencies and may include the following criminal offenses:

  • Federal drug crimes
  • Federal gun crimes
  • Mail fraud
  • Airplane hijacking
  • Kidnapping
  • Bank robbery
  • Child pornography
  • Lynching
  • Credit card fraud
  • Identity Theft
  • Computer crimes
  • Federal hate crimes
  • Violations of the RICO Act
  • Tax fraud
  • Conspiracy
  • Healthcare fraud

In addition to harsher sentencing, federal charges can also bring asset forfeiture. Asset forfeiture is the governmental practice of seizing and keeping private property that is allegedly connected to a crime.

Defense Strategies for Federal Crimes

The defense for your federal crime will depend on the specific crime as well as the facts and circumstances surrounding the offense. As an example, defenses to federal drug charges might include unlawful search and seizure, faulty crime lab analysis, entrapment, lost evidence, or evidence that has been tampered with. For many federal criminal charges, your attorney may be able to prove flawed testimony on the part of a government agency or even fabricated evidence. To avoid a harsh prison sentence, it may be beneficial for you to cooperate with the authorities.

As an example, if you have been accused of violating federal law—but you have information about another person who committed a federal offense—you may be able to trade that information for a better plea deal. Remember that cooperating with the federal government can be tricky—and not something you should ever do without an attorney who has a thorough understanding of federal prosecutions. Your experienced Burns & Davis attorney can help you weigh the risks and benefits of cooperating with federal authorities so you can decide the best course of action.

FAQs

Should I wait to hire an attorney until I know the charges I’m facing?

In some instances, you may not know you are the target of a federal investigation until you are arrested. However, federal criminal investigations often tend to stretch out over a period of months. You may have a “feeling” you are being investigated, or you may have received a “target” letter notifying you that you are under investigation. Your attorney can often do the most good by advising you during the early stages of the investigation. An experienced Burns & Davis attorney can give you invaluable insights into what to expect and how to behave throughout the investigation—which can make a difference in the ultimate charges. Knowing your legal rights during the investigation can keep you from saying something that could be used against you. Further, if federal investigators want access to documents or other evidence—and have no warrant—your attorney can advise you on whether to provide the evidence.

How does a federal criminal defense lawyer help?

When you choose a federal criminal defense attorney from Burns & Davis, we will do the following on your behalf:

  • Your attorney will immediately intervene in the investigation by the federal government.
  • We will use our knowledge of federal investigations to your advantage, as we are well-versed in federal investigation tactics and prosecutorial strategies.
  • Your attorney will assess your potential exposure, whether that is federal prison time, fines, probation, and/or restitution
  • We will use our knowledge and experience to build a uniquely tailored defense strategy that utilizes constitutional protections, statutory defense, safe harbors, and any other means available
  • As your federal criminal defense attorney, a Burns & Davis attorney will be absolutely prepared throughout each stage of prosecution. From your investigation through the trial, sentencing, and appeal, we will implement the most strategic approach to each stage.

How a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney from Burns & Davis Can Help

While all criminal charges are serious, federal charges should be taken especially seriously. As recognized leaders in defending federal charges, the Burns & Davis attorneys are built for the unique challenges stemming from federal offenses. We are proudly client-centric—your goals are our goals, and we are passionate about obtaining justice on your behalf. With more than a decade of favorable outcomes for our clients, it is important to know that we never back down—inside or outside a courtroom. While we set realistic expectations, we will fight fiercely for the best possible resolution to your federal charges. Contact a federal criminal defense attorney from Burns & Davis today.