DAYTONA BEACH FEDERAL CRIME ATTORNEY

ACCUSED OF A FEDERAL OFFENSE?

If you find yourself accused of a federal offense, it is crucial to understand the gravity of the situation. Federal law enforcement agents dedicate significant time to investigating these crimes, meaning that by the time you become aware of being a suspect or officially charged, the government has already built a strong case against you. If a U.S. Attorney can prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, you may face extensive prison sentences ranging from years to decades, and in severe cases, even a lifetime sentence. Additionally, you could be burdened with hefty fines ranging from thousands to millions of dollars. With your entire future at stake, it is imperative that you seek immediate assistance from a federal crimes lawyer in Daytona Beach, FL.

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our Daytona Beach federal crimes attorneys fully grasp the seriousness of these cases. Therefore, when we are entrusted with defending against federal charges, we immediately spring into action. We invest substantial time in gathering and analyzing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collecting other pertinent information to build a strong defense. Our team consists of former prosecutors who possess a keen eye for identifying weaknesses in arguments. Leveraging our insights and comprehensive knowledge of the federal judicial process, we construct a robust and aggressive defense strategy on your behalf.

If you have been charged with a federal crime, do not hesitate to contact us at (386) 693-1637 for an immediate case evaluation with our experienced Daytona Beach federal crime attorneys.

DEFINING FEDERAL CRIMES

A key distinction between state and federal crimes lies in the location of the offense. State crimes occur within a specific state's borders, whereas federal crimes typically involve prohibited behavior that crosses state lines or national borders. For example, if an individual abducts someone from Florida and transports them to Georgia, they may face prosecution under federal kidnapping law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 1201. However, if the offense had occurred solely within Florida, it would be pursued as a state crime under Florida Statutes § 787.01.

WHEN WILL YOUR CRIMINAL CASE BE PROSECUTED IN FEDERAL COURT?

Your criminal case will be heard in federal court in Daytona Beach under the following circumstances:

• Federal authorities make the arrest: If you are apprehended by federal agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), or others, your case will likely be tried in federal court. Federal authorities typically possess more resources and personnel compared to state or local police departments.
• The alleged crime occurs on federal property: When a criminal offense takes place on federal grounds, federal authorities assume jurisdiction. Examples include robbing a federally-insured bank or possessing drugs in a federal park.
• The conduct crosses state lines or affects multiple states: Criminal offenses involving multiple states fall under the purview of federal prosecutors. Common examples include drug transportation between states, internet-based identity theft across state lines, or homicides where victims are in different states.
• The conduct violates immigration laws: Illegally entering the United States carries serious consequences, particularly for repeat offenders. Repeat attempts at unlawful entry can result in severe criminal penalties and other repercussions.
• The alleged crime is of a serious nature: The severity of the offense often determines whether federal courts will handle the case. Complex cases involving large-scale money laundering, for instance, are more likely to be investigated by federal authorities.
• Joint decision by state and federal authorities: In some cases, federal and state authorities may confer to determine which jurisdiction should preside over a criminal case. Alternatively, state police departments may refer a case to federal prosecutors.

In certain instances, an offense may be pursued as both a state and a federal crime.

If you have been arrested for a federal crime in Florida, the penalties you face are typically more severe compared to a conviction in state court. It is in your best interest to seek legal representation from an experienced Daytona Beach federal criminal defense lawyer.

TYPES OF FEDERAL CHARGES WE HANDLE

The United States Code outlines various forms of prohibited conduct constituting federal crimes. Federal offenses encompass a wide range of acts, including embezzlement, theft, and homicide. Irrespective of the charge, it is crucial for anyone accused of violating federal law to secure competent legal representation. Navigating the complexities of the federal judicial system can be arduous without the assistance of a skilled and experienced Daytona Beach federal crimes attorney.

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our Daytona Beach federal crimes lawyers offer aggressive defense for an array of federal offenses, including but not limited to:

• Arson: Unlawfully setting fire to specific buildings, structures, materials, or supplies within special maritime and territorial jurisdiction (18 U.S.C. § 81). Illegally manufacturing, importing, distributing, or storing explosive devices is also prohibited (18 U.S.C. § 842).
• Child Pornography: Federal laws (18 U.S.C. §§ 2251, 2252, and 2252A) prohibit the transportation, receipt, distribution, possession, or creation of sexually explicit images depicting minors.
• Counterfeiting: Various offenses related to counterfeiting are listed in Chapter 25 of Title 18 of the United States Code. These include the use, dealing, sale, or possession of counterfeit obligations, securities, tools, and materials.
• Drug Trafficking: Prosecution under 21 U.S.C. § 841 is possible for individuals engaged in the creation, manufacture, distribution, or dispensation of controlled or counterfeit substances.
• Espionage: This offense entails unlawfully taking documents or information related to the defense of the United States and providing it to another entity with the intent to harm the country. Prohibited acts are enumerated in Chapter 37 of Title 18 of the United States Code.
• Federal DUI: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol or having a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher on federal property can result in a Federal DUI charge.
• Human Trafficking: Federal laws (18 U.S.C. §§ 1581, 1584, 1589, 1590, 1591, 1592) prohibit procuring, enticing, or forcing individuals into involuntary servitude or commercial sex acts.
• Kidnapping: It is unlawful to abduct another person, transport them across state lines, and hold them for ransom (18 U.S.C. § 1201).
• Mortgage Fraud: Utilizing deception to obtain a loan or real property constitutes this offense. Although the federal government lacks a specific mortgage fraud law, such conduct can be pursued under statutes like mail or wire fraud, bank fraud, or false statements to a financial institution.
• Tax Fraud: Tax fraud encompasses willfully evading tax obligations, failure to pay taxes, making false statements on tax returns, and other tax-related offenses.
• Terrorism: Engaging in violent acts with the intent to intimidate others, influence government policy, or affect government conduct constitutes terrorism (Chapter 113B of Title 18 of the United States Code).

If you are under investigation for a federal offense or have been charged, our Daytona Beach federal crimes attorneys possess the skills, experience, and resources to challenge the accusations against you.

REDUCING FEDERAL CHARGES AND DEFENSE STRATEGIES

In some instances, federal charges may be reduced or dismissed. This is often accomplished through plea bargaining, where a Daytona Beach federal defense attorney collaborates with the prosecutor to negotiate a plea deal that benefits both parties. The charges could be lessened, or the sentence may be reduced. However, it's important to note that this outcome is not always achievable.

Defeating a federal indictment is indeed possible. A proficient Daytona Beach federal defense attorney can construct a robust defense strategy and present evidence that could exonerate you. This may involve challenging the prosecution's evidence, questioning witness credibility, or filing a motion to dismiss the case. However, the outcome will ultimately depend on the specific facts of your case and the skill of your defense attorney.

When it comes to federal criminal defense, having a Daytona Beach federal defense attorney by your side can significantly impact the outcome. From navigating the intricacies of federal law to negotiating plea deals and constructing a defense strategy, a federal defense attorney can be a formidable ally. Whether you are facing federal charges or seeking more information about the process, a Daytona Beach federal defense attorney can provide the knowledge and experience necessary for making informed decisions regarding your case.

THE CONSEQUENCES OF FEDERAL CRIMES

If you are convicted of a federal offense, the impact on your life can be significant, resulting in severe penalties that include lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. The exact punishment for federal crimes varies depending on the nature of the offense, and aggravating factors can lead to enhanced penalties.

Here are a few examples of federal offenses and their associated penalties:

• Willfully failing to file a tax return: Up to 1 year of imprisonment and/or fines of up to $25,000.
• Trafficking less than 50 kilograms of marijuana: Up to 5 years in prison and/or fines of up to $250,000.
• Drug trafficking: Sentences ranging from 5 to 40 years in prison, along with fines ranging from $10,000 to $5,000,000.
• Accessing child pornography: Up to 10 years in prison and/or fines.
• Using counterfeit materials: Up to 20 years in prison and/or fines.
• Arson: Up to 25 years in prison and/or fines.
• Sex trafficking by force or coercion: Sentences ranging from 15 years to life in prison, as well as fines.
• Kidnapping: Up to life in prison.
• Healthcare fraud: Sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years in prison, with potential fines depending on the case.
• Identity theft: Possible sentence of up to 30 years in prison.
• Mail or Wire Fraud: Potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
• Money Laundering: Up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $500,000.
• Tax evasion: Up to 5 years in prison and/or fines of $500,000.

FIGHTING FEDERAL CRIME CHARGES IN DAYTONA BEACH, FL

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our Daytona Beach federal defense attorneys understand the significant impact a federal criminal charge and conviction can have on your life. That's why we are dedicated to providing personalized attention and aggressive defense throughout the federal criminal process in Florida. When you choose us, your case will be handled with utmost competence.

Our Daytona Beach federal lawyers are committed to protecting your best interests and working towards a favorable outcome on your behalf. For an immediate case evaluation, please call us at (386) 693-1637 or fill out our online contact form.