If you are facing serious federal charges, you need Suzuki. A South Tucson federal crimes lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices has the conviction and integrity you need to mount a strong defense.
Our South Tucson criminal defense lawyer is available 24/7, even on weekends.
Charges Our South Tucson Federal Crimes Lawyers Represent
Some crimes have more potential for prosecution at the federal level when they involve a larger-scale issue or fall under federal prosecution. This type of case is usually more complex and can result in a harsher penalty. The most common types of crimes that warrant federal charges are:
- Tax fraud
- Counterfeiting
- White collar crimes
- Child pornography possession
- Alien smuggling and harboring
- Money laundering
- Mail or wire fraud
- Embezzlement
- Human trafficking
- Various types of fraud
- Drug trafficking or manufacturing
- Cybercrimes, including hacking or internet fraud
- RICO violations (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act)
If you face any of these crimes, it can feel like your entire world is crashing. Having a federal crimes attorney in South Tucson can help you learn more about going through the federal system. Having someone on your side can help you prepare for the strongest defense possible.
Key Differences Between State and Federal Criminal Process
The process of a federal crime starts with the potential of getting arrested prior to formal charges being filed against you. An attorney can help you determine what you can use as evidence in your criminal defense case and bring that evidence forward to a grand jury or continue the investigation process after your arrest. This strategic approach is important because of the serious nature of the charges and extensive resources.
A state-level case typically involves state or local law enforcement and is prosecuted under Arizona state law. This type of case goes through the court system in Arizona, and the process focuses more on the alleged violations of state statutes. However, these cases can still be complex and usually involve different penalties and smaller jurisdictions than those in a federal court.
A federal case involves particular procedures and starts with the prosecution in front of a federal judge and an assistant United States attorney. A federal grand jury is one of the types of juries, consisting of 16-23 people who will review evidence given to the prosecution; however, your attorney will not be able to submit or question the opposing evidence at the time. You can testify, but the jury’s role is only to decide whether sufficient evidence exists to move forward.
What Makes a Crime Fall Under the Federal Level
There are usually fewer crimes that are considered federal crimes, and a state-level offense is different from a federal crime. State legislators can create laws for various issues within their jurisdictions; however, federal laws are meant for federal or national interest matters. Some factors that determine if a charge is federal or state level are:
- Involved federal officers
- Takes place on a federal property
- Crosses state lines
- Violates a federal officers
- Involves customs violations and immigration
- Includes misrepresentation, deception, or fraud of the federal government
It is helpful to familiarize yourself with these distinctions. Federal crimes carry more severe penalties. They involve an entirely different investigation and prosecution process.
What to Do If You Are Under Federal Investigation
If you notice any signs you may be under federal investigation, you should know what to do because the actions you take in the beginning can make all the difference. You should first avoid discussing your case with anyone, even law enforcement. The reason for this is that anything you say to them could be quickly turned against you.
The next step is to work with a federal crimes lawyer in South Tucson as quickly as possible. They will work with you to protect your rights. One of the most helpful things your lawyer can do is help you avoid a costly mistake by saying the right thing; they can guide you on what to say about your case to other people. While you may already think you know what to say and what not to say, you may be surprised by how even casual conversations could be used against you by being twisted around.
Federal agents have access to extensive resources, and you never know who may be working alongside them. You should avoid sharing any details pertaining to your case so the evidence is not used against you. To protect yourself, you should rely on your lawyer to get you through the investigation and stay aware every step of the way.
Potential Defense Strategies That May Be Effective For Your Case
If you face federal charges, you may have access to multiple defense strategies. The specifics of your case will dictate the strategies used. Common defense strategies may include the following:
- Defending yourself or others
- Acting under duress
- Having a valid alibi
- Asserting self-defense
- Arguing malicious prosecution
- Proving entrapment or coercion
- Demonstrating involuntary intoxication
- Claiming not guilty by reason of insanity
Make sure you understand both Arizona laws and federal laws and how they may interact with one another in your case. Be sure you have a solid grasp of the statutes so you are fully informed and prepared for what you can expect ahead. With the right legal representation, you can potentially take on tough federal charges.
Seek a Potential Defense With a South Tucson Federal Crimes Attorney
The most important thing you can do is make sure you have legal representation on your side quickly. Going through the legal system, especially an entire trial by yourself, is too overwhelming and risky. It is better to have the guidance on your side to protect your rights.
Each case is different, and your defense should be one of the most strategic methods you can use. Your lawyer can provide all the support you need to steer you in the proper direction. Contact Suzuki Law Group to start with a consultation.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form