criminal defense lawyers handle a wide range of cases that fall under federal jurisdiction. These cases involve violations of federal laws, which are typically more serious offenses compared to state crimes. Some common types of cases that federal criminal defense lawyers handle include
Drug Offenses
Federal drug crimes involve the trafficking, manufacturing, distribution, or possession of illegal drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or marijuana. These cases often involve large-scale drug operations and can carry severe penalties.
White-Collar Crimes
Federal white-collar crimes involve non-violent offenses committed for financial gain. These may include fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, insider trading, tax evasion, or identity theft. These cases often involve complex financial transactions and require extensive knowledge of federal laws and regulations.
Cybercrimes
With the rise of technology, federal criminal defense lawyers also handle cases related to cybercrimes. These may include hacking, identity theft, computer fraud, online scams, or child exploitation. These cases often involve intricate digital evidence and require specialized knowledge in computer forensics.
Firearms Offenses
Federal laws regulate the possession, sale, and transportation of firearms. Federal criminal defense lawyers handle cases involving illegal possession of firearms, trafficking firearms, or using firearms during the commission of a crime.
Terrorism
Federal criminal defense lawyers may also handle cases related to terrorism, including acts of domestic or international terrorism. These cases involve charges such as providing support to terrorist organizations, planning or carrying out terrorist attacks, or conspiring to commit acts of terrorism.
Immigration Offenses
Federal criminal defense lawyers may represent individuals charged with immigration offenses, such as illegal entry, visa fraud, or smuggling of undocumented immigrants. These cases often involve complex immigration laws and may have severe consequences, including deportation.
Racketeering and Organized Crime
Federal criminal defense lawyers handle cases involving organized crime syndicates, such as the Mafia or drug cartels. These cases often involve charges of racketeering, money laundering, extortion, or conspiracy.
Public Corruption
Federal criminal defense lawyers may represent individuals charged with public corruption offenses, such as bribery, embezzlement of public funds, or abuse of power by government officials.
Federal Appeals
Federal criminal defense lawyers also handle cases on appeal. They may represent clients who have been convicted in federal court and are seeking to have their convictions overturned or sentences reduced.