Federal Crimes

Federal Crime Lawyers in North Hollywood

Highly Skilled Criminal Attorneys Committed to Defending Clients Facing Federal Charges in Los Angeles County

When under investigation for a criminal offense, the accused are strongly encouraged to seek professional legal representation from a great attorney well-versed in the specific details of the defendant’s case. While local prosecutors then prosecute many crimes committed in Los Angeles County in the appropriate courts, some criminal offenses fall under the jurisdiction of the United States Federal Court. If the defendant is charged with a federal crime, they require the legal services of attorneys who have represented cases in both state and federal courts.

At our law firm, we represent clients in various criminal matters, including those facing off with federal prosecutors after being charged with committing federal crimes. We have a proven record of success defending clients, explaining their legal options, and working tirelessly to protect their rights against the full force of the federal government prosecutors.

Whatever sort of federal crime you are accused of committing, you need to understand the harsh consequences of a criminal conviction that could land you in prison for a long time to come, as well as leave you contending with other penalties such as costly fines. In hopes of avoiding lengthy jail time and other punishments, please contact our law office to schedule your free initial consultation today.

What Are Different Examples of Federal Criminal Cases?

Federal crimes cover an extensive array of offenses that directly contravene the laws of the United States Government. 

Examples include:

  • National Financial Systems and White Collar Crimes: Frauds, identity theft, embezzlements, money laundering, and schemes targeting federal banking systems and institutions fall under this category. When dealing with these sophisticated offenses, the guidance of a federal criminal lawyer with a deep understanding of both the financial sector and federal laws is crucial.
  • Border Complications: This encompasses issues such as smuggling, human trafficking, and unauthorized border crossings. Given the sensitive nature of such matters and their geopolitical implications, a federal criminal court attorney well-versed in immigration and border control laws becomes an invaluable asset.
  • Interstate Crimes: These are crimes that have footprints in more than one state, whether executed physically or through digital means. For instance, cybercrimes that affect victims across multiple states would fall under this category. Another example would be drug trafficking controlled substances across state lines. Ensuring a robust defense in such cases necessitates collaboration with a federal crime defense attorney.
  • Mail Fraud: Using postal services to deceive or defraud is another common federal offense. This could be related to stealing or tampering with someone’s mail, or opening mail that doesn’t belong to you.
  • Political Discrepancies: Crimes that tamper with the democratic process or endanger national security are treated with the utmost severity. Whether it’s election fraud or espionage, we would strongly advise consulting with an experienced federal criminal court attorney to navigate the law.

Given the diverse nature and significant complexity of federal offenses, generic legal advice is unlikely to suffice, and early consultation with a dedicated federal crime defense attorney is essential. Their specialized knowledge can shed light on the nuances of the charges and offer the best path forward in terms of a defense strategy.

What Other Federal Offense Cases Does Our Law Firm Represent?

In addition to the above-mentioned federal offences, the prosecution may also attempt to convict individuals accused of the following crimes:

  • Wire fraud
  • Bank robbery
  • Illegal gambling
  • Certain drug and controlled substance offenses
  • Racketeering
  • Immigration violations
  • Gun trafficking and other weapons-related charges
  • Extortion
  • Child pornography
  • Specific violent crimes 
  • Internet and computer crimes
  • Conspiracy to commit crimes
  • Defrauding health care programs
  • Cryptocurrency crimes
  • Kidnapping
  • Perjury
  • Tax evasion and other legal issues involving the IRS
  • Bribery
  • Sexual exploitation of children
  • The buying and selling of children
  • Antitrust violations
  • Destruction of audit records
  • Rico violations
  • Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations
  • Theft of trade secrets and intellectual property
  • Asset seizure or civil forfeiture actions
  • Video voyeurism
  • Espionage
  • And more

What Are the Key Differences Between Federal and State Cases?

There are significant differences in how federal cases and state cases are handled. Most notably, federal arrests are typically conducted by national agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or ATF. At times, local agencies, in conjunction with the federal body as part of a task force, will assume responsibility.

Federal arrests will have been ordered by a magistrate or a grand jury’s indictment, both of which are sanctioned after thorough scrutiny of evidence indicating the suspect’s involvement in a federal crime.

What Should You Do if You Learn You’re Under Federal Investigation? 

It can be challenging to remain calm when you learn that federal agencies have begun to investigate you with the suspicion that you have committed a crime. We must nonetheless advise you to maintain a level head, as making any abrupt decision without proper legal advice is ill-advised.

Whether you are under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation or other federal agencies, we must advise you to seek professional legal counsel from attorneys well-versed in these matters. Please contact our law firm to schedule a free and confidential case consultation with our legal team before proceeding.

Federal investigators could pressure you to explain yourself in hopes of getting you to say something that could be easily misconstrued. Remember, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Practice these rights to protect your case. In addition to keeping quiet when prosecutors ask questions, you should also practice holding your opinions to yourself in public settings and online, because federal prosecutors and other agents will monitor social media and some of your communications looking for evidence to help their case.

You must keep relevant emails, communications, and other records that could be used for strengthening your defense. Do your utmost to gather and preserve all necessary documents for your legal representatives.

While it is highly recommended to have professional legal counsel in your corner, no lawyer is worth the time and money if you do not heed their advice. Every action you take in your federal crime case should be under the advisement of your criminal defense attorneys. Your lawyers can help you plan for every potential scenario and explain your legal options so that you can make informed decisions about how to proceed with your case.

Can Criminal Defense Lawyers Potentially Help End Investigations Before Federal Charges Are Ever Filed?

 In some federal criminal cases, your attorneys may be able to intervene before any charges are officially filed. Seeking professional legal representation early in the process allows your criminal attorneys to present evidence, address misunderstandings, and potentially demonstrate to the federal government that your case is not worth the resources to seek a conviction. Even in cases where the federal investigation has already gotten underway, there may still be potential for reducing the risk of a full-blown investigation and charges. 

Contact our attorneys and legal staff immediately upon learning that you are under investigation for committing federal crimes.

Why Do You Need the Legal Representation of a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney?

Being charged with a federal crime is a serious matter, and due to the high penalties involved, the expertise of an experienced federal criminal court attorney is crucial to ensure that you don’t create further issues for yourself. The vast complexity of federal laws is not something you should try to navigate on your own, and representation by adept federal criminal court attorneys is vital to ensure justice is served and that you understand the process. 

Given the gravity of potential consequences and the rigor of federal prosecution, securing a highly qualified federal criminal lawyer can make all the difference in the trajectory of your case.

What Legal Defenses Could Defend Clients Accused of Federal Crimes?

Federal cases are always treated with great scrutiny, and the Federal legal team will leave no stone unturned in prosecuting. However, rest assured that Wegman & Levin have extensive experience with such cases. Our highly proficient team thoroughly examines your case, guiding you through effective strategies and keeping you informed about all available options. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, offering trusted and recommended federal criminal defense across Los Angeles and beyond.

Potential legal defense strategies that could be utilized in your case include the following:

  • Challenging the evidence, including questioning whether it was acquired legally. If the prosecution’s evidence was not obtained lawfully, it could be excluded from the case.
  • When a client is facing criminal charges, whether they are state or federal, our lawyers will perform thorough investigations into the facts, gather relevant documents, interview witnesses, and carefully examine all of the claims made against the defendant.
  • In some cases, your lawyers will turn to expert witnesses for legal help, explaining forensic evidence, financial records, and other complex issues related to a federal criminal case.
  • Depending on the circumstances of your case, it may be wise to enter into negotiations with federal prosecutors to secure a favorable plea bargain. Your criminal defense lawyers will determine whether a plea deal is in your interests.
  • Experienced trial preparation and legal representation can make the difference between a client getting convicted of a federal crime or merely being accused and then proven innocent.
  • And more. 

Contact Our Criminal Law Firm to Discuss Your Federal Criminal Case with Our Experienced Attorneys Today

Whether you are simply under investigation for committing a federal criminal offense or you have already been charged with a federal crime, you must seek professional legal advice from experienced attorneys skilled and knowledgeable in these practice areas. Our criminal lawyers have the dedication and experience necessary to represent your interests and help you seek the most satisfactory outcome possible.

If you find yourself charged with a federal crime in North Hollywood, Burbank, Los Angeles County, or broader Southern California, prompt action is crucial. Contact the experienced federal criminal lawyers at Wegman & Levin, Attorneys at Law, at 818-495-8330. Secure your complimentary initial consultation for your federal criminal defense case today. We look forward to speaking with you.