If you are facing federal charges in West Valley Phoenix, you need an attorney with ample experience navigating cases in federal courts. Suzuki Law Offices has decades of experience representing clients and has a reputation as reliable and knowledgeable West Valley Phoenix criminal defense lawyers.
Federal crimes can carry harsh punishments and sentencing in a federal prison, in addition to any state-level criminal penalties. We can defend you against the charges and work to protect your freedoms and liberties to the greatest extent possible.
Contact our offices online or call 24/7 to learn more about how a West Valley Phoenix federal crimes lawyer can help.
How a Federal Crime Lawyer Can Help
Federal crimes operate under different rules and procedures than state law, so you need an attorney familiar with the ins and outs of federal cases. As a former prosecutor, lead attorney Richard Suzuki understands how the prosecution in federal cases operates and can anticipate and counter their strategies and argumentation.
We can investigate your case and build a powerful defense against the criminal charges. We can also negotiate with the prosecution to secure a more favorable deal that avoids the worst of jail time and other penalties. If necessary, we can also represent you in trial and push for an acquittal.
Examples of Federal-Level Crimes We Oversee
We have substantial experience navigating all types of federal criminal cases, including those listed below:
- Drug crimes. Federal drug crimes include large-scale, organized crimes like trafficking and distribution across state lines.
- White-collar crime. Most types of white-collar fraud can be charged as federal crimes because they involve federal currency.
- Weapons offenses. Weapons offenses, such as illegal possession or sale of weapons, are federal crimes. Firearms offenses also frequently overlap with charges for violent crimes, like robbery or assault.
- Computer crimes. Cybercrimes like hacking or fraud can be charged as federal crimes if they involve identity theft and computer data that crosses state lines.
- Immigration violations. Immigration violations fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government.
- Sex crimes. Sex crimes like human trafficking or child pornography typically involve investigation from the FBI and other federal agencies.
- Bank robberies. Most bank robberies are a matter of federal interest because banks are federally insured institutions.
What Makes Something a Federal Crime?
A federal crime is any crime that violates federal law and that falls under federal jurisdiction. In general, the federal government becomes involved in investigations in cases where criminal activity crosses state lines or shows a high degree of organization and planning. For example, drug crimes can become a federal offense if someone transports drugs from one state to another.
Crimes on federal property, such as courthouses, are also usually charged at the federal level. Federal crimes are typically investigated by federal agencies, like the FBI, DEA, or ATF. These agencies conduct their own investigations and work in tandem with local law enforcement agencies in Arizona, like the Phoenix PD.
Punishments for Federal Crimes Are Significantly Harsher
Federal crimes typically carry significantly harsher sentences than equivalent state-level crimes. For example, a drug trafficking conviction under ARS 13-3407 can carry a mitigated sentence of five years in prison, while the same offense at the federal level can carry up to ten years in federal prison, in addition to civil fines and other penalties.
As such, the need for a competent defense lawyer is even more pressing. A conviction for a federal offense can result in several years in prison and massive disruptions to your personal and professional life. A criminal defense attorney can explore strategies to reduce sentences or alternative punishments for federal crimes.
You Can Face Federal and State Charges for the Same Crime
The US practices the doctrine of dual sovereignty, meaning federal and state governments have the authority to punish crimes in their jurisdiction. This means that you can face both state and federal charges for the same offense without violating double jeopardy.
If you are facing dual charges, you’ll likely face state proceedings first, then federal proceedings. Any sentence from state and federal convictions will be served concurrently or consecutively. You can be convicted on one set of charges and not the other, so it’s possible to beat state charges but receive a conviction at the federal level.
Contact a Federal Crimes Lawyer in West Valley Phoenix
If you are under federal investigation, the stakes are incredibly high, and your freedoms may be at risk. You need a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer who can adeptly defend you from accusations. The lawyers at Suzuki Law Offices are trial-tested attorneys, unafraid to stand up for our clients in court. We can protect your right to a fair trial and use every strategy and resource to secure the most favorable outcome in your case.
Contact a federal crimes lawyer in West Valley Phoenix online or call us today for a free case consultation. Your liberties may be at stake, so it’s imperative that you don’t delay.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form