Criminal Defense Lawyers

Milwaukee Federal Criminal Lawyers

Dealing with Federal Charges in Milwaukee? You Need a Good Lawyer

Hey there! If you or someone you care about is facing federal criminal charges in Milwaukee, this article is for you. I want to help you understand what you’re up against and why having an experienced federal defense attorney is so important.Let me start by explaining the key difference between federal and state crimes.

Federal vs. State Crimes 101

The big distinction is jurisdiction. Federal crimes are prosecuted by the U.S. government, while state crimes are handled by the state.

• Federal crimes involve breaking federal laws – state crimes involve violating state laws.
• Federal cases are investigated by federal agencies like the FBI – state crimes are probed by state police.
• Federal crimes go through U.S. District Court – state charges are tried in state courts.
• Federal crimes often deal with interstate activities – state crimes usually happen within state borders.

Some examples of federal charges include mail fraud, wire fraud, bank robbery, drug trafficking, child pornography, white-collar offenses like embezzlement. Many federal laws also allow for civil penalties.

How Federal Jurisdiction Works

For a case to qualify as federal, it has to involve breaking federal law or doing something across state lines. The Constitution gives Congress the power to make laws in three key areas:

• Regulating interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3)
• Taxing and spending for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1)
• Making laws to carry out other federal powers (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18)

Using these powers, Congress has passed federal criminal statutes covering drugs, guns, immigration, banking, terrorism, civil rights violations, and more. The “necessary and proper” clause in particular has allowed federal jurisdiction to expand over time.So in addition to directly breaking federal statutes, federal courts can take cases where the effects of a crime cross state lines – like a murder-for-hire plot involving phone calls or money transfers between states.

Why You Need a Federal Criminal Lawyer

Facing federal charges without an experienced defense lawyer is extremely risky. A good attorney can be your best asset by:

• Analyzing the charges and identifying potential defenses – every federal crime has specific legal elements that must be proven.
• Negotiating with prosecutors – federal prosecutors have a lot of discretion in plea bargaining.
• Guiding you through the process – federal cases tend to move quickly, with more complex rules.
• Protecting your rights – you have important constitutional rights that must be safeguarded.
• Gathering evidence – your lawyer can utilize investigators, experts, witnesses and other tools to build your defense.
• Presenting defenses – viable options can include insufficient evidence, entrapment, self-defense, insanity, and more. An experienced lawyer will know how to craft the strongest defense.

Having a skilled federal criminal lawyer on your side can make all the difference in getting charges reduced or dismissed, avoiding harsh mandatory minimum sentences, and preserving your rights. Don’t try to go it alone against the power of the federal government.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Types of Federal Cases in Milwaukee

Federal defense attorneys in Milwaukee see a wide variety of federal charges, including:

• Drug crimes – trafficking, distribution, manufacturing, possession – often related to imports from Canada and Mexico. Penalties are severe.
• White collar and financial crimes – securities fraud, bank fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, tax evasion, embezzlement. Complex cases requiring top legal talent.
• Firearms offenses – illegal sales, possession by felons, using guns in drug/violent crimes.
• Child pornography – harsh penalties for possession, distribution, production. Needs experienced counsel.
• Cyber crimes – hacking, ID theft, internet scams. Legally and technically complicated.
• Immigration violations – illegal entry, document fraud, alien smuggling. Deportation possible.
• Terrorism – material support, threats, hoaxes, weapons charges.

Notable Federal Cases

There have been some key U.S. Supreme Court cases that shape federal jurisdiction:

• U.S. v. Lopez (1995) – Struck down federal ban on guns near schools for lacking ties to interstate commerce.
• U.S. v. Morrison (2000) – Ruled part of the Violence Against Women Act exceeded federal powers by creating a federal remedy for gender-based violence with no interstate commerce connection.
• Gonzales v. Raich (2005) – Upheld federal power to prohibit marijuana possession and production even within one state, as part of a broader regulatory scheme.
• Bond v. U.S. (2014) – Overturned conviction under the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act of a woman who tried to poison her husband’s lover, finding insufficient national/international interests.

Experienced federal defense lawyers stay up-to-date on key rulings like these that impact federal jurisdiction and defenses.

Finding the Right Milwaukee Federal Criminal Lawyer

If you or someone you care about is facing federal charges in Milwaukee, it’s critical to have an experienced federal criminal defense attorney on your side right away. Look for lawyers with:

• Extensive federal criminal case experience in Milwaukee
• Familiarity with local federal judges, prosecutors and procedures
• Track record of taking federal cases to trial successfully if needed
• Success getting federal charges reduced or dismissed
• Deep knowledge of federal sentencing guidelines and plea negotiation strategies

Don’t take chances with your freedom and criminal record – consult with the best federal criminal defense lawyers in Milwaukee immediately after being charged. With an aggressive defense, many positive outcomes are possible. The stakes are high, so put your trust in a lawyer who knows how to get results in federal court.I hope this gives you a helpful overview of the federal criminal justice process in Milwaukee and why having the right lawyer is so crucial. Let me know if you have any other questions!