Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Miami

What Crimes Are Considered Federal Offenses?

Federal crimes are established under Title 18 of the United States Code, the penal code for the federal government of the United States. Title 18 contains more than 100 chapters of crimes, some of which also have multiple sections.

Multiple federal agencies have the power to investigate federal offenses, giving federal prosecutors tremendous support in filing criminal charges.

Some of the most commonly prosecuted federal offenses include:

• Drug offenses
• Sex crimes
• Weapons offenses
• White collar crimes

The sentence for an alleged federal offender is based on his or her criminal record and the nature of the offense, or the “offense level.” The United States Federal Sentencing Guidelines currently have 43 offense levels with the most serious offenses resulting in life in prison and fines of up to $500,000.

To schedule a free consultation, call us at 305-249-0090 for Miami, 954-524-4474 for Broward County, or contact us online.

Federal Law vs. State Law in Florida

State courts and federal courts have several differences in how each government handles criminal cases. Alleged violations of federal law must be tried in federal courts, but most other violations can be tried in state courts.

The prosecutors in state cases are generally lawyers who have been elected to their positions by voters, holding titles such as state attorney or district attorney. The judges in state courts—circuit court judges—are elected by voters and serve for six-year terms.

Prosecutors in federal cases are United States Attorneys who are either appointed to four-year terms by the President of the United States or appointed on an interim basis by the United States Attorney General. Federal judges are also appointed by the President of the United States, but they are essentially appointed for life.

The Hoffman Firm Can Protect Your Rights

Most criminal charges in Florida are based on alleged violations of state or local laws. Federal offenses are far more serious matters that involve violations of federal laws or offenses in which the criminal conduct crossed state lines.

While both the state and federal government may pursue charges when a criminal act violates both state and federal law, one government agency will usually defer to the other for prosecuting the case. Federal offenses generally carry much stiffer penalties than state charges, and prosecutors in federal cases also typically have far greater resources than their state counterparts.

If you are facing federal charges or you believe you could be under investigation for a federal offense, it is in your best interest to immediately retain legal counsel before saying anything to authorities. The Hoffman Firm defends clients in Fort Lauderdale and beyond. Our Miami federal criminal defense lawyer has experienced defending the accused against all types of federal crimes.

Schedule your free consultation today by calling 305-249-0090 if your case is out of Miami, 954-524-4474 if your case is out of Broward County, or contacting us online.