Fighting Federal Charges:

At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we understand the seriousness of facing federal criminal charges. Federal crimes are governed by United States federal laws and are prosecuted by federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). These cases often involve severe penalties, making it essential to secure experienced legal representation as soon as possible.

What Are Federal Crimes?

Federal crimes are violations of federal laws and often involve activities that cross state lines or have a nationwide impact. Unlike state crimes, federal offenses are prosecuted by United States Attorneys in federal courts. There are over 4,000 federal criminal statutes, and penalties for federal crimes are often harsher than those for state-level offenses. Examples of federal crimes include:

Kidnapping across state lines
Tax fraud and evasion
Internet-based child pornography
White-collar crimes such as embezzlement and wire fraud
Drug trafficking
Counterfeiting currency

If you’ve been accused of a federal crime, it’s critical to act quickly and retain a defense attorney who understands federal law and procedures.

Federal Investigation Agencies

Federal investigations are conducted by highly specialized agencies with vast resources. These agencies include:

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF)
Justice Department

These agencies work closely with federal prosecutors to build strong cases against defendants. If you are under investigation, you may receive a target letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. This letter signals that you are a focus of their investigation and may be charged with a federal crime. Immediate legal representation is crucial at this stage to potentially avoid arrest and charges.

Differences Between State and Federal Charges

While both state and federal courts handle criminal cases, there are significant differences:

Jurisdiction: Federal cases involve violations of federal laws or crimes that cross state lines, while state cases typically address local offenses.
Penalties: Federal sentences are often more severe, with mandatory minimums for certain crimes, especially drug-related offenses.
Resources: Federal agencies have far greater resources than local law enforcement, which they utilize to investigate and prosecute cases thoroughly.

Because federal charges are more complex and carry higher stakes, it is vital to have an attorney experienced in federal courts.

Penalties for Federal Crimes

Convictions for federal offenses come with severe consequences, including:

Imprisonment: Sentences often range from 5 to 20 years, with some offenses carrying life sentences.
Fines: Substantial monetary penalties, sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Asset Forfeiture: Confiscation of property or money tied to criminal activities.
Restitution: Compensation for victims of the crime.

Defending Against Federal Charges

Defending against federal charges requires a strategic and informed approach. At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we use various defense strategies tailored to each client’s case, including:

Challenging Evidence: Ensuring that evidence was obtained lawfully and meets federal standards.
Disputing Jurisdiction: Arguing that the case should be handled at the state level instead of federal court.
Questioning Intent: Demonstrating that the defendant did not knowingly or intentionally commit the crime.
Negotiating Plea Deals: When appropriate, working to reduce charges or secure lighter sentences.

Choosing the Right Attorney

When facing federal charges, it’s essential to hire an attorney with specific experience in federal court. Federal cases involve unique procedures and rules that differ from state court, and having a lawyer familiar with the federal system can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Additionally, strong communication between you and your attorney is vital. You need a lawyer who listens to your concerns, explains the legal process, and effectively communicates your defense to the court.

Why Choose Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP?

Our team at Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP has extensive experience handling federal criminal cases. We have successfully defended clients against charges such as:

Extortion
Drug trafficking
Wire fraud
Armed robbery
Money laundering
Tax fraud and evasion
Grand larceny

With decades of combined experience, we understand what’s at stake in federal cases and are dedicated to providing aggressive and effective representation. Our attorneys have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes, including reduced sentences and case dismissals.

Contact Us Today

If you are under investigation or facing federal charges, do not wait to seek legal representation. The sooner you contact us, the better your chances of building a strong defense. At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we provide personalized attention and a relentless commitment to protecting your rights.