Albuquerque Federal Criminal Lawyers

You’ve Been Accused of a Federal Crime – Now What?

There’s one reason you’re on this website: you’re looking for an elite criminal defense law firm. Maybe you’ve been accused of a federal crime. Or perhaps you’re under investigation by the FBI, DEA, or another federal agency. Whatever your situation is, take a deep breath. We’re here to help. At Spodek Law Group, we’ve handled thousands of federal cases across the nation. From healthcare fraud to drug trafficking, our federal criminal defense attorneys have seen it all. And we know exactly what it takes to win, no matter how complex your case may seem.

So, what do you do if you get hit with one of these things? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Federal Charges

Federal charges are no joke. They’re brought by specialized federal prosecutors who have immense resources at their disposal. And if convicted, you could be facing severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and astronomical fines.

But, there’s good news too. Being charged doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted. With the right legal team by your side, you can fight these charges and clear your name.

At Spodek Law Group, we’ve successfully defended clients against all types of federal allegations, including:

• Healthcare fraud
• Drug crimes (manufacturing, trafficking, conspiracy)
• White-collar offenses (mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering)
• Cybercrimes (hacking, identity theft)
• Weapons charges
• Sex crimes (child pornography, sex trafficking)

No matter what you’ve been accused of, we have the expertise to mount an aggressive defense on your behalf.

The Federal Criminal Process Explained

If you’re under federal investigation or have been charged, it’s crucial to understand the process. Here’s a quick overview:

Investigation Stage

Federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, and IRS conduct lengthy investigations before any charges are filed. During this stage, they’ll gather evidence through tactics like:

• Wiretaps
• Surveillance
• Undercover operations
• Execution of search warrants
• Interviewing witnesses

If you’re aware you’re under investigation, it’s critical to invoke your right to remain silent. Anything you say can potentially be used against you. Instead, hire an attorney immediately to protect your rights.

Charging Stage

If prosecutors believe they have enough evidence, charges will be brought in one of two ways:

• Criminal complaint
• Indictment by a grand jury

A complaint is a formal accusation made by a prosecutor. An indictment means a grand jury has found probable cause that you committed a federal crime.

Arrest and Initial Appearance

If charged via complaint, you’ll be arrested and brought before a judge for an initial appearance. If indicted, you’ll be summoned to appear in court. At this stage, the judge will:

• Inform you of the charges
• Consider bail/pre-trial release conditions
• Start the process of hiring an attorney (if you don’t have one)

Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions

In this phase, your defense attorney and the prosecutors exchange information and evidence related to the case. Your lawyer may also file pre-trial motions, seeking to suppress certain evidence or have charges dismissed.

Plea Bargaining or Trial

Depending on the strength of the evidence, your attorney may advise accepting a plea bargain or taking the case to trial. Over 90% of federal cases are resolved through plea deals.

If going to trial, your defense team will rigorously prepare to undermine the prosecution’s case and sow reasonable doubt.

Sentencing

If convicted at trial or through a plea, you’ll proceed to sentencing. Federal sentences are dictated by strict guidelines considering factors like:

• Nature of the crime
• Criminal history
• Role in the offense
• Acceptance of responsibility

An experienced federal defense lawyer can argue for a reduced sentence through departures and variances from the guidelines.

As you can see, federal cases are extremely complex. Don’t try to navigate this process alone, your freedom is at stake. Hire a proven federal criminal defense attorney to protect your rights every step of the way.

Building an Aggressive Defense Strategy

At Spodek Law Group, we leave no stones unturned in building a strategic defense for our clients. Our battle-tested approach includes:

Attacking the Evidence

We’ll scrutinize how evidence against you was obtained and handled. If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights (illegal search/seizure, coerced statements, etc.), we’ll move to suppress that evidence.

Undermining Witness Credibility

Conflicting witness statements are a gift for the defense. We know how to highlight inconsistencies and biases that create reasonable doubt.

Exploiting Prosecutorial Misconduct

Federal prosecutors aren’t immune to mistakes and overreach. If they’ve withheld exculpatory evidence or engaged in other misconduct, we’ll make them answer for it.

Negotiating Favorable Plea Deals

Sometimes taking a plea is the best option, especially if it keeps you out of prison. We’re skilled negotiators who can secure the most favorable terms possible.

Preparing Meticulous Trial Strategy

If your case goes to trial, we’ll be ready. Expect a masterful cross-examination of witnesses, persuasive opening/closing arguments, and relentless poking of holes in the prosecution’s case.

No matter which path your case takes, our federal criminal lawyers in New York and Los Angeles will apply decades of courtroom experience to your defense. We’ve taken on, and beaten, the toughest federal prosecutors in the country.

Why Hire a Private Federal Defense Firm?

You may be wondering, “Can’t I just use a public defender? They’re free, right?”

While public defenders are certainly committed professionals, the reality is their offices are underfunded and overworked. They simply can’t devote the same level of attention and resources to your case as a private federal criminal defense firm.

When you hire Spodek Law Group, you get:

A Team of Specialists, Not a Solo Practitioner

Our federal criminal defense team includes former prosecutors and FBI agents. We approach your case from every angle, pooling our collective experience and expertise.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Investigative Resources

We invest in the latest forensics tools and hire expert witnesses, private investigators, and other professionals as needed to strengthen your defense.

Personalized, Attentive Service

You’ll work directly with the attorneys handling your case, not an overworked associate or paralegal. We keep you informed and address all your concerns promptly.

A Reputation that Commands Respect

Federal prosecutors know our track record of hard-nosed litigation. We’re not interested in pleading out every case, we’ll take yours to trial if that’s what it takes to win.

When your future is on the line, you need to level playing field. A private federal criminal defense lawyer gives you the best chance of avoiding conviction and minimizing penalties.

What to Do If You’re Under Federal Investigation

So you’ve been contacted by federal agents or received a target letter indicating you’re under investigation. What now?

First, keep calm and say nothing. Respectfully invoke your 5th Amendment right to remain silent. Anything you say can potentially be used against you, even if you think you’re telling the truth.

Next, hire a federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Your lawyer can intervene on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected during questioning.

Never try speaking to federal agents alone, even if they claim to just want to “clear some things up.” Their job is to build a case against you, period.

With an experienced federal defense lawyer by your side, you can navigate the investigation without incriminating yourself. Your attorney will:

• Appear with you during interviews and depositions
• Advise you on what questions to answer (if any)
• Intervene if agents overstep their bounds
• Seek to get the investigation closed without charges

The earlier you involve legal counsel, the better your chances of avoiding charges or securing a favorable plea deal. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Charged with a Federal Crime? We’re Here for You

Facing federal criminal charges is one of the most stressful, high-stakes situations a person can go through. The consequences of a conviction are life-altering, loss of freedom, crushing fines, and irreparable damage to your reputation.

But it doesn’t have to be a hopeless situation. By hiring Spodek Law Group, you get a team of heavy-hitting federal criminal defense attorneys ready to fight tooth-and-nail for your future.

We understand what you’re going through. Many of our clients are good, hard-working people who simply made a mistake or found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Regardless of the circumstances, we believe everyone deserves outstanding legal representation and a fair shake in the justice system.

When you become our client, you’re part of the Spodek Law Group family. We’ll treat your case with the same urgency and dedication as if you were our own flesh and blood. No case is too complex, no agency is too intimidating. We’ve beaten the federal government before, and we’ll do it again.

So if you or a loved one has been charged with a federal crime, don’t lose hope. Pick up the phone and call Spodek Law Group right away. We’re available 24/7 to start building your defense.

It’s simple. Every single client deserves honesty and white glove service. That’s the Spodek Way, and it’s why we win.

Common Questions About Federal Criminal Charges

What are some examples of federal crimes?

Some of the most common federal crimes include:

• Drug trafficking/manufacturing
• Healthcare fraud
• Bank fraud/embezzlement
• Mail fraud/wire fraud
• Tax evasion
• Child pornography
• Cybercrime (hacking, identity theft)
• Weapons charges
• Human trafficking
• Terrorism
• Racketeering/organized crime

What’s the difference between state and federal charges?

Federal crimes are investigated by federal agencies and prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal courts. These cases tend to be more complex, with greater potential penalties than state crimes.

Federal prosecutors also have greater resources, including larger staffs and budgets. And federal sentences are dictated by strict guidelines, often resulting in harsher punishments.

How long do federal criminal cases take?

From investigation to sentencing, federal cases commonly take 1-2 years to fully resolve. Complex white-collar prosecutions can drag on for several years.

What are the potential penalties for federal crimes?

Penalties vary based on the specific charges, but federal crimes frequently carry sentences of 5-10 years or more in federal prison. Fines can reach into the millions of dollars. Some charges also bring the possibility of life imprisonment.

Do I really need a private federal defense lawyer?

Absolutely. Public defenders simply don’t have the time, resources, or specialization to properly defend against federal charges. Hiring a private federal criminal defense firm is your best chance at avoiding conviction and minimizing penalties.

What if I can’t afford a private attorney?

Many federal criminal defense firms offer flexible payment plans to make their services accessible. The cost of an attorney is well worth avoiding a federal conviction and prison sentence.

What’s the federal criminal process like?

The typical process includes investigation, charges (complaint or indictment), arrest/initial appearance, discovery, plea negotiations or trial, and sentencing if convicted. An experienced lawyer can guide you through each stage.

How does Spodek Law Group build a defense strategy?

We use a multi-pronged approach that includes attacking the prosecution’s evidence, undermining witness credibility, exploiting procedural errors, negotiating favorable plea deals, and preparing meticulous trial strategy.

Federal Criminal Defense FAQs

Q: What is the burden of proof in federal criminal cases?

A: In federal court, prosecutors must establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt for a conviction. This is the highest burden of proof in the legal system.

Q: What rights do I have if I’m under federal investigation?

A: You have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. Invoke these rights immediately to avoid incriminating yourself.

Q: Can federal charges be dismissed before trial?

A: Yes, an experienced defense lawyer may be able to get charges dismissed by filing pre-trial motions challenging the prosecution’s evidence or conduct.

Q: What’s the difference between a complaint and an indictment?

A: A complaint is filed directly by the prosecutor. An indictment means a grand jury found probable cause of a crime after reviewing evidence.

Q: What factors influence federal sentencing?

A: Key factors include the offense level, criminal history, role in the crime, and acceptance of responsibility. Following strict sentencing guidelines, judges have some discretion.

Q: Can I appeal a federal conviction?

A: Yes, you have the right to appeal a guilty verdict or sentence to a federal appeals court. Your lawyer can identify appealable issues.

Q: How can I find the best federal criminal defense lawyer?

A: Look for a firm with extensive federal courtroom experience, a track record of success, and specialization in the type of charges you face. Reviews and credentials are also important.

No matter your situation, Spodek Law Group has the skills and tenacity to vigorously defend your rights in federal court. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation.