A criminal conviction carries strict penalties, and it becomes even harsher when it is at the federal level. Your criminal record will follow you forever, impacting future opportunities and freedom.
At Suzuki Law Offices, our Gilbert federal crimes lawyer will fight for your rights with integrity, providing you with excellent representation through passion, compassion, and experience.
Understandably, you feel anxious and stressed when thinking about your future. This is not a charge you should take lightly. One of the best things you can do for yourself when you face such a circumstance is to work with an experienced Gilbert criminal defense lawyer.
What to Expect if You Are Subject to a Pending Federal Government Investigation
If you become the subject of a federal government investigation, it can have serious implications. Usually, an investigation starts discreetly, with initial signs including interviews conducted by federal agents, requests for documents, and subpoenas. The investigations usually involve an agency like the SEC, DEA, or FBI and can last months or years before a charge is filed.
Federal authorities gather evidence during an investigation through multiple legal tools, including grand jury proceedings and search warrants.
An individual under investigation has constitutional rights like the right to legal counsel and the right to remain silent, which are vital to protecting against self-incrimination. Compliance or cooperation with investigators’ requests should always be handled with legal representation.
If the investigation proceeds, the subject can face regulatory actions, civil penalties, or criminal charges. A federal charge is prosecuted in the U.S. District Court, and the penalties may include forfeitures, fines, or imprisonment. A federal crimes attorney in Gilbert can help you understand potential outcomes in detail and possible defenses you may have at your disposal.
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Get StartedExperienced Representation for a Wide Range of Federal Crimes
Our firm has years of experience defending those accused of federal crimes. We understand the significance of those charges and will work tirelessly to protect your best interests.
Some of the federal violations we have represented include but are not limited to the following:
- White collar crimes
- Sex crimes
- Child pornography
- Human trafficking
- Federal drug crimes
- Alien smuggling and harboring
- Illegal re-entry after being deported
- Racketeering
- Money laundering
- Mail or wire fraud
If you or a loved one are facing federal charges, it is important to act quickly. Some federal crimes carry harsh minimum sentencing, regardless of circumstance.
Having a skilled advocate by your side can help you protect your rights, gather critical evidence, effectively negotiate with the prosecution, and fight for your best interests at trial.
Lawyer Near Me 602-682-5270Potential Federal Penalties and Sentencing
A federal penalty falls under federal statutes rather than solely an Arizona statute. The strictness of penalties and sentences will vary depending on the nature of the crime. Some common federal penalties include:
- Prison sentence: For example, drug trafficking across the Arizona and Mexico border can result in a mandatory minimum sentence, usually five to 10 years or more, under the statute 21 U.S.C. § 841 in the special report to the Congress of mandatory minimum penalties.
- Fines: Financial penalties may be imposed, which may reach $250,000 for individuals and even more for corporate crime.
- Restitution: Under statute 18 U.S.C. § 3663A, it requires, financial penalties may be imposed and reach $250,000 for individuals and even more for corporate crimes compensation to victims for financial losses that accrued because of federal offenses per the restitution in federal criminal cases.
Federal jurisdiction may be triggered by crimes on federal land in Arizona. This could include the Grand Canyon National Park or other lands affecting interstate commerce, such as human or drug trafficking, under 18 U.S.C. § 1591. Sentences have to be served in federal prisons, and parole is not a possibility for federal convictions.
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Possible Types of Defenses
When you face a federal charge, it does not mean everything is a lost cause. There are many defenses that may be used, depending on the facts of your case. Common federal defenses may include:
- Constitutional Violations: A defense like unlawful search and seizure or a failure to read Miranda rights can suppress the evidence.
- Lack of Evidence: If the prosecution cannot prove every angle of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, you cannot be convicted.
- Lack of Intent or Mistake: Most federal crimes will require specific intent and finding the proof that you lacked it may undermine the government’s case.
- Entrapment: Law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you wouldn’t otherwise commit, and this could be a valid defense.
The right defense depends on the nature of the charge, the circumstances surrounding your case, and the evidence against you. Federal prosecutors have numerous resources, so it is vital to create a strong defense.
Your federal crimes lawyer in Gilbert can help you understand what the potential defenses are against federal drug charges and other types of charges.
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Why You Need Suzuki
Federal charges are serious, and going through them alone is not a gamble you should consider taking. A federal prosecutor has extensive resources and experience and will know how to build a strong case.
Without a lawyer, you could unknowingly give up rights, fail to challenge evidence that should not even be used against you or miss deadlines.
Our firm, made up of former prosecutors, knows the legal system inside and out. They can help file the right motions, navigate the system, and take care of the negotiations with the prosecutors to reduce your penalties and charges.
One of the most helpful aspects is that they can identify weaknesses in the government’s case to ensure your side of the argument is heard.
The stakes are too high to go through this alone. Your sentence could end up being hard, and the process can be complex and emotionally draining. With a lawyer by your side, you can give the case everything it needs.
Work With a Gilbert Federal Crimes Attorney
Suzuki Law Offices can help you at every moment in your case. You can let go of some of the unknowns so you can move forward. Reach out for a consultation to see how we can protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form