What Are The Common Federal Criminal Cases That Your Firm Handles?

We commonly handle conspiracy to distribute narcotics and controlled substances, possession of narcotics and controlled substances, firearms violations such as felon in possession of firearm, wire fraud, mail fraud, murder, bank robberies or Hobbs Act, child pornography, and other fraud. 

What Are The Main Differences between Federal And State Criminal Charges?

One of the biggest differences between federal and state charges is the sentencing exposure that you face. There are large mandatory minimums that are quite common in federal cases, as well as the federal sentencing guidelines, which are typically much more severe than state crime sentences. Also, conspiracy charges are very common in federal cases whereas state cases typically do not charge conspiracy. 

Who Generally Investigates And Prosecutes A Federal Criminal Case?

Typically, you’ll deal with either the FBI, the DEA, IRS criminal investigators, or the Secret Service. There can also be state-level investigators that are put on certain teams, which are comprised of state investigators, but the cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. 

Should I Hire An Attorney If I Am Being Investigated In A Federal Criminal Case?

There are certain classifications that the federal guidelines use for people being investigated and those are called a “subject” of an investigation or a “target” of an investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office uses those terms and they guide how they investigate someone. This can be a dangerous area because you could start out as only a “person of interest” or a witness. Unknowingly, you can develop into a “subject” or “target,” or even be charged with a federal crime. At a minimum, it’s best to consult with an attorney before you talk with any criminal investigators, even if you think you’re only a witness. You could think that you’re safe and then find out later that you’re not, and talk yourself into being indicted or charged for a federal crime. It is safest to get advice from a lawyer first and then you can determine if you really need to hire one or not. 

Are Federal Investigators Required To Inform Me Exactly What I’m Being Investigated For?

Federal investigators are allowed, under the law, to use deception and not to be honest while they’re interviewing you. Sometimes, they’ll be very frank with you and other times they will not. It is important to hire an experienced criminal federal defense attorney, who can tell you what might be going on behind the scenes. 

What Happens After I Have Been Arrested And Charged With A Federal Crime?

There are two ways to be charged with a federal crime. One is by complaint and the other way is by indictment. It’s more common to be charged with an indictment, where a grand jury has already determined that there is probable cause to charge you or indict you with federal crimes. Once you are charged or indicted, unless you already have a lawyer, you’re going to be arrested by the United States Marshals and brought before a magistrate judge. That judge will then determine whether you should be held in detention or should be released. 

In state court, you can usually bond out. In federal court, it’s not that simple. A judge will make a determination of whether you should be held in jail during your whole case or whether you should be released with certain conditions.  

For more information on common federal crimes in Minnesota, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling  612-474-5420 today. You can also use our online contact form. We are here to help. 

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