When people dream of the future, prison sentences and exorbitant fines do not enter the picture. However, if federal authorities have targeted you as a criminal investigation subject or already indicted you, these burdens may become your reality.
To reduce the risk of this happening, consider hiring a North Charleston federal criminal lawyer. Federal and state criminal courts differ in many ways, and a state defense counsel will not necessarily know how to manage your case successfully. Criminal attorneys familiar with federal criminal laws understand its intricacies and will work to mitigate the impact on you or your business.
Federal v. State Court Charges
Many misdeeds qualify as illegal in both federal and state criminal circuits. Some offending conduct, however, constitutes only a federal crime. When an overlap occurs, the facts of the case will determine who has jurisdiction. For example, if the alleged acts took place in more than one state, the federal government will probably take the lead on prosecuting the case.
Common Federal Offenses
Title 18 of the United States Code identifies numerous illegal behaviors under federal law, but it is not the sole repository for unlawful acts. Many other sections also define criminal activity, such as Title 26 – the Internal Revenue Code and review of the Code reveals the criminalization of numerous acts, from violent offenses, such as assault, to economic crimes, like embezzlement. Other examples of federal crimes include:
- Slavery and sex trafficking
- Murder
- Sexual abuse
- Bankruptcy fraud
- Healthcare billing abuses
- Bribery
- Tax malfeasance
Suspects must take care during the investigation phase of the matter or risk adding to the charges. If agents believe that they have proof the accused lied or made misleading statements, another felony charge could be added on for lying to federal officers. Thus, those targeted should always consult with a federal criminal defense counsel in North Charleston before agreeing to speak with anyone responding to a request for information.
Mandatory Minimums in Federal Criminal Judgments
For these and all other federal crimes, offenders face significant punishment, typically more severe than sentences imposed in South Carolina courts alone. The Code and federal sentencing guidelines impose long incarceration periods, including life in prison and onerous fines requiring payouts over $100,000 for others. Limited federal felonies carry the possibility of being sentenced to death.
Mandatory minimum sentences apply for numerous federal crimes, taking away the judge’s discretion and ability to consider mitigating factors. This inflexibility highlights the importance of avoiding a conviction. Hiring the right federal crimes representative may go a long way in accomplishing this goal, whether through alternative resolution means, such as a plea bargain or dismissal of the case, or tough defense litigation that earns an acquittal.
Disrupting a North Charleston Resident’s Life in Many Ways
For most people, the threat of prison and financial debt is enough to turn their world upside down, but a conviction may have adverse effects far beyond the freedom lost and money paid.
- Limited educational opportunities
- Lost job prospects
- Revoked professional licenses
- Inability to obtain loans or housing
- Deportation
- Loss of voting rights
- Restrictions on owning a firearm
Given the far-reaching impact of a federal conviction, working with a defense representative in the area familiar with federal cases is crucial to addressing the indictment and collateral liabilities.
Protect Your Future with the Help of a North Charleston Federal Criminal Attorney
Being charged with a federal crime may seem overwhelming, but you do not have to give up without a fight. The federal government still has to prove its case against you. North Charleston federal criminal lawyers will work with you to craft the best defense strategy to respond to the charges and minimize the negative consequences to your reputation and business. We are ready to hear from you, so please call us today.
