Fighting For You, Every Step of The Way
Federal Crimes
Clearwater Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Have you learned of a federal criminal investigation against you or have you already been arrested or charged with a federal crime? Haworth Legal can fight for your constitutional rights. The most important step you can take right now to protect your freedom, your future, and your reputation is to retain an experienced federal criminal defense attorney.
Because federal crimes are complex, the laws, regulations, potential punishment, and even the way these charges are investigated and prosecuted are very different from state crimes. Often involving crimes that cross state lines or involve government agencies and higher amounts of money, offenses charged at the federal level require a straightforward and aggressive approach tailored to the individual matter.
Federal litigation is complicated and involves a close look at the evidence against you, a deep understanding of the laws and statutes, and leveraging the knowledge and resources of a skilled lawyer.
Haworth Legal is ready to help. Call (727) 610-8114 or reach out online for reliable 24/7 availability and prompt, honest communication from our federal criminal defense attorney in Clearwater. We assist clients throughout Pinellas County.
Federal Charges We Handle in Florida
Though many crimes are dealt with at the state level, various offenses draw the federal government’s attention.
Our firm has experience with numerous crimes tried at the federal level, including, but not limited to:
- Drug crimes, including trafficking and possession of a large amount of illegal substances
- Fraud, including bank, wire, mail, healthcare, tax, and credit card fraud
Medicare, Medicaid, and other government program fraud - Conspiracy
- Criminal contempt
- Sex crimes, such as manufacturing or distributing child pornography
- Extortion
- False statements to federal agents under 18 U.S.C. § 1001
- Identity theft
- Counterfeiting and forgery
- Money laundering, embezzlement, and racketeering
- Hobbs Act offenses
- Obstruction of justice
- Perjury
- RICO violations
- Unlawful employment of undocumented workers under 8 U.S.C. § 1324a(a)(1)(A)
- Computer and internet crimes, including phishing
Several of the crimes mentioned above violate both state and federal laws and can thereby be tried at either the state or federal level. The charges will most likely be processed by the federal court system when the illegal activity takes place in multiple jurisdictions or on federal land. Additionally, the federal government handles cases when someone is arrested by federal law enforcement or when a case involves a large criminal enterprise.
There are also crimes that explicitly violate federal laws established by the U.S. Congress. These include crimes like tax evasion and immigration violations. Such offenses are always dealt with in federal court.
Understanding the Consequences of Federal Convictions
Federal convictions carry significant penalties, often more severe than state-level offenses. Penalties might include long prison terms, substantial fines, and prolonged supervision after release.
Beyond legal penalties, federal convictions can have substantial personal and professional repercussions, including loss of employment opportunities, challenges in obtaining housing, and restricted rights. Our firm works diligently not only to challenge the evidence and protect your rights but also to minimize these lasting impacts.
Protecting Your Rights in Federal Investigations
If you become aware of a federal investigation, it is vital to act quickly. Federal agents often gather evidence and build cases over time, and early intervention by knowledgeable attorneys can significantly affect the outcome. Our team is familiar with the investigative tactics used by agencies such as the FBI and DEA, allowing us to craft a proactive defense strategy.
In many instances, it is possible to negotiate with prosecutors before charges are formally filed, potentially mitigating the severity of the charges or even preventing them altogether. We guide you through this process with an emphasis on protecting your rights and freedoms at every step.
FAQs: Common Questions on Federal Crimes
What makes a federal crime different from a state crime in Florida?
Federal crimes are prosecuted in federal court and typically involve agencies like the FBI, DEA, or IRS. These cases often carry harsher penalties and complex procedures compared to state charges. At Haworth Legal, our Florida federal criminal defense lawyers have the experience to navigate the federal system.
What are the penalties for federal crimes in Florida?
Federal convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, asset forfeiture, and extended periods of probation or supervised release. Many federal crimes, such as drug trafficking or fraud, carry mandatory minimum sentences. Haworth Legal’s federal defense attorneys fight to minimize these penalties.
What should I do if I’m under federal investigation in Florida?
If you learn you are being investigated for a federal crime, contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Speaking with investigators without the presence of counsel can harm your case. At Haworth Legal, we intervene early to protect your rights and prepare a defense before charges are filed.
Can federal charges in Florida be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, depending on the evidence and circumstances. Federal charges may be challenged on the grounds of constitutional violations, unlawful searches, or insufficient evidence. Haworth Legal reviews every detail of your case to negotiate with prosecutors or pursue dismissal in federal court.
Why should I hire Haworth Legal for federal criminal defense in Florida?
Federal prosecutions move quickly, and the stakes are high, making experienced representation essential. Haworth Legal provides aggressive statewide defense for clients facing federal charges, from white-collar crimes to drug trafficking and conspiracy cases. Contact our Florida federal criminal attorneys today for a confidential consultation.
The First Step Act
In a step toward correctional and sentencing reforms, President Trump signed the First Step Act (FSA) of 2018 (P.L. 115-391) into law in 2018. Among other things, the Act is meant to reduce the population in federal prisons through recidivism-reducing programs and activities. These programs, amended under 18 U.S.C. § 3624(b), provide eligible federal inmates up to 54 days of credit for every year of their imposed sentence to be put toward their pre-release custody.
Though the First Step Act makes those who have been convicted of certain crimes, including terrorism, human trafficking, espionage, certain sex and violent crimes, multiple firearm possession charges, and high-level drug crimes, ineligible, those convicted of such offenses may earn other benefits for program completion.