Miami, Florida Federal Crimes Lawyer

Attorney for Federal Charges Involving Fraud, Drug Trafficking, Child Pornography, and More in Miami

Federal criminal charges can often be more serious than state-level prosecutions. When federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, or Securities and Exchange Commission become involved in criminal investigations, the full resources of the United States government may be used against defendants.

Federal prosecutors have access to sophisticated investigative tools and extensive budgets. These cases may involve months or years of investigation before charges are filed, and prosecutors may build substantial cases against defendants. The federal sentencing system operates under guidelines that may impose mandatory prison sentences.

At Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney, we can provide representation for people who are facing federal criminal charges in Miami. Our lawyer understands the procedures followed in federal courts and the strategies that may be used to achieve favorable outcomes in these cases. Defending against federal charges will often require a higher level of preparation, and we can provide the strategic representation needed to protect clients in these cases.

Understanding the Federal Criminal Justice System

Federal criminal cases can differ from state-level charges in significant ways. Federal jurisdiction is limited to crimes that violate federal statutes, crimes that cross state lines, offenses that occur on federal property, or crimes involving federal interests. Federal prosecutors will only become in cases that meet these requirements, and their involvement typically signals that the government views a case as particularly serious.

Federal investigations are typically more extensive than state investigations. Federal agencies may conduct surveillance for months or years, use wiretaps and other forms of electronic monitoring, review financial records and communications, interview dozens of witnesses, and build comprehensive cases before seeking indictments. By the time federal charges are filed, prosecutors have usually amassed substantial evidence. This

Sentencing in federal cases is based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentence ranges based on the offense level and the defendant's criminal history. Following convictions, federal judges will often impose sentences that are within the guideline ranges unless a defendant can present compelling arguments for deviating from the guidelines. Our attorney understands these guidelines and can advocate effectively for lower sentences.

Federal Drug Trafficking and Distribution Charges

The federal government may prosecute drug crimes when investigations involve interstate or international trafficking, large quantities of controlled substances, or organized drug distribution networks. Federal drug charges will usually result in mandatory minimum sentences that will be based on the types and quantities of drugs involved. These mandatory minimums can limit judges' ability to impose lesser sentences even when there are mitigating circumstances.

Federal drug conspiracy charges may allow prosecutors to charge people for their involvement in drug trafficking organizations, even if they never personally handled drugs. A person could be charged with drug conspiracy if they agreed with one or more other people to violate drug laws, and at least one overt act was taken to further the conspiracy. The government does not need to prove that a defendant knew all the details of the conspiracy or all the participants. These charges can cast wide nets that can ensnare people who are on the periphery of drug organizations.

Our lawyer can defend against federal drug charges by challenging the legality of searches and seizures, filing motions to suppress evidence based on violations of the Fourth Amendment, disputing the quantity of drugs involved in a case, challenging confidential informant testimony, and negotiating for "safety valve" provisions that can reduce or eliminate mandatory minimum sentences.

Child Pornography and Sexual Exploitation Offenses

Federal child pornography charges can lead to severe penalties and devastating collateral consequences, including sex offender registration requirements. These cases may be based on investigations by the FBI or the Department of Homeland Security involving a person's online activities, peer-to-peer file sharing networks, or international child exploitation rings.

The federal sentencing guidelines for child pornography offenses include enhancements that can dramatically increase the recommended sentences. These enhancements may be based on the number of images involved, the age of victims depicted, whether images involve sadistic or violent conduct, whether a defendant used a computer, and other factors. The resulting sentences can be lengthy, but our attorney knows how to address these factors and advocate for appropriate penalties.

Our lawyer can defend against federal child pornography charges by challenging the legality of searches of computers and electronic devices, disputing whether a person knowingly possessed or distributed child sexual abuse materials (CSAM), determining whether others had access to the computers or networks involved, and presenting evidence of mental health issues, addictions, or other mitigating factors.

Federal Fraud Offenses

Federal fraud charges may involve a wide range of offenses related to schemes to defraud people, businesses, financial institutions, or government programs. They may include mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, securities fraud, tax fraud, or money laundering.

Federal fraud cases may involve extensive evidence, including financial records, emails, bank statements, and business documents. Prosecutors may highlight complex paper trails showing how schemes operated and how money moved through various accounts. Our attorney works with forensic accountants and financial experts to analyze the government's evidence, identify weaknesses in their theories, and present alternative explanations for transactions and business activities. He can defend against federal fraud charges by demonstrating a lack of intent to defraud or presenting evidence of good faith business practices.

Federal Weapons Charges

Federal firearms offenses may involve weapons trafficking or the illegal possession of firearms by certain categories of people. Anyone convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Federal law also prohibits firearm possession by people who have been convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors, people who are subject to domestic violence protective orders, illegal aliens, fugitives from justice, and people who are addicted to controlled substances. Violations of these prohibitions can lead to serious penalties.

Our attorney can challenge federal weapons charges by disputing whether a person actually possessed a firearm, establishing that a person did not know firearms were present on their property, challenging whether prior convictions qualify for prohibitions against firearm possession, and filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches. He can also advocate for reduced sentences by presenting evidence of rehabilitation or other mitigating factors.

Defending Against Federal Criminal Charges

When you have been charged with a federal crime, our lawyer can provide you with comprehensive representation throughout every stage of your case. He will review the evidence and the applicable laws. He will also go over discovery materials meticulously, identify legal and factual issues that may be challenged, and develop defense strategies based on the specifics of your case.

Our attorney can file pretrial motions challenging the legality of searches and seizures, the admissibility of statements or confessions, and other legal issues that may result in the suppression of evidence or the dismissal of charges. He will take aggressive action to address these issues, because excluding key evidence may affect the government's ability to prove its case.

Our lawyer will also engage in strategic negotiations with federal prosecutors. He can advocate for reduced charges, agreements to recommend lower sentences, and stipulations regarding sentencing factors. If a case proceeds to trial, he can perform skilled jury selection, make compelling opening statements, cross-examinate government witnesses, present evidence and witnesses, and make persuasive closing arguments.

During sentencing, our attorney can present mitigation evidence that may address your personal history, the circumstances surrounding the offense, your acceptance of responsibility, and your plans for the future. He will advocate for variances or departures from guideline sentences while fighting to minimize the impact of sentencing enhancements.

Contact Our Miami, FL Federal Crimes Defense Attorney

When facing federal criminal charges, the resources of prosecutors can be formidable, and the potential sentence may be severe. You need an attorney who understands the federal system and who will be prepared to challenge the government's case at every stage. At Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney, we have successfully represented clients in federal court, and we are prepared to fight for your rights and your freedom. Contact our Miami federal charges lawyer at 305-615-1285 to arrange your free consultation.