Federal Crimes Lawyer Protecting You Against Federal Charges
When you face an allegation of a federal crime, you face the strength and resources of the U.S. government. That is a uniquely stressful position to be in, but you are not without rights, and you are not alone.
My name is Antonio Pena, and I am on your side. I work with people accused of criminal charges across Miami and Broward County. As a former prosecutor, I make it my priority to provide you with a thoughtful, strategic defense based on your needs and your charge. I will work as hard as anyone to defend you.
From White Collar Crimes To Drug Charges And More
Federal charges differ from state offenses in several important ways; generally, these are crimes that cross state borders or impact a federal interest. Often, federal charges regard such issues as:
- Embezzlement
- Fraud
- Conspiracy
- Drug trafficking
- Corruption
- Money laundering
If you face any one of these crimes, you may be facing significant time in prison and extremely high fines. Furthermore, a federal prison term will be handled in a federal facility that may be far away from your family and other loved ones.
FAQ: Understanding Federal Charges
Federal charges are often confusing. Here, I answer some common questions to help you better understand the process and what you can do to protect yourself.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for a federal crime but haven’t been charged yet?
If you’re facing an FBI investigation or another federal probe, enlist a defense lawyer immediately. Avoid speaking with investigators or law enforcement without legal representation. An attorney can guide you through the process, safeguard your rights, prevent self-incrimination and potentially even prevent charges from getting filed. They will also evaluate the investigation’s scope and develop a strategic defense plan to address any potential charges.
What is the difference between federal and state criminal charges?
Federal and state criminal charges differ primarily in jurisdiction and scope. Federal offenses involve violations of federal law, often crossing state lines or impacting national interests, and are prosecuted in federal court. State charges pertain to violations of state laws and are handled in state courts. In some cases, such as those involving complex white collar crimes, defendants may face both state and federal charges.
How does sentencing work in federal court, and are there mandatory minimums?
Sentencing in federal court follows the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. These provide a framework for determining penalties based on the offense’s severity and the defendant’s criminal history. Many federal felony offenses come with mandatory minimum sentences, meaning the judge must impose at least the minimum term specified by law, regardless of circumstances.
I Will Build A Strategic Federal Criminal Defense
My goal as your lawyer is to build a smart strategy. I look at the charges and your circumstances, and I assess the situation. While I can be as aggressive as any attorney, not every situation calls for that. I prefer to handle your defense with intelligence and insight.
My goal is to help you deal with your charges in a way that works for you. I am on your side the entire way. Reach out to me for a meeting to learn more. Call 786-667-5055 today or send an email. I can speak with you in English or Spanish, depending on your preference.