Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Florida Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Are you facing federal charges in Florida? These cases can flip your life upside down fast. The U.S. government has endless resources to build a criminal investigation against you. Our criminal defense attorney fights for people just like you. When federal agents show up, you need a skilled federal defense lawyer right away—before you say anything that might hurt your case.

A federal offense is not like a state crime. Our criminal attorneys know how to handle tough federal cases in South Florida. With a deep understanding of federal criminal prosecutions, we build a robust defense strategy to protect your freedom when it's on the line.

[ez-toc]

Our Florida Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Practice Experience

Our Florida Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Practice Experience

Our criminal lawyers have helped many clients in Federal Court. We work in criminal courts across Downtown Miami and Coral Gables. Some of our team even worked as federal prosecutors before joining our firm. This gives us special insight into how federal law enforcement authorities build cases at the federal level.

Federal cases are different because:

  • They involve long investigations
  • Multiple federal agencies work together
  • They use complex evidence like wiretaps
  • They follow strict federal sentencing guidelines

We've won cases against all kinds of federal charges. Our track record includes numerous overturned convictions and dismissed charges. In one case, we got Medicare fraud charges dropped by proving the search warrant violated your constitutional rights against unreasonable searches. Our experienced attorneys know how to protect your constitutional rights when seeking a positive outcome in your case.

Federal Cases We Handle

Federal crimes often cross state lines or break specific federal laws. Our federal defense attorneys have fought almost every type of federal charge across South Florida's Southern District, Middle District, and Northern Districts.

We team up with experts and former federal agents to fight the government's evidence. This helps us build a strong defense strategy.

Federal Fraud Charges

We defend clients against all types of fraud charges, including:

  • Healthcare fraud
  • Medicare fraud
  • Mail fraud
  • Wire fraud
  • PPP loan fraud
  • Bank fraud

South Florida sees many federal prosecutions for these offenses. Our experienced attorneys know how to question whether your alleged crime truly counts as fraud under federal law. We examine potential penalties and develop strategies to secure a favorable outcome in your case.

Financial Crimes Defense

Miami and South Florida are major money centers, making them targets for financial crime investigations. Our defense team has helped clients facing:

  • Money laundering
  • Securities fraud
  • Tax evasion
  • Credit card fraud
  • Mortgage fraud

Federal prosecutors build these cases on piles of financial records. We work with experts to find holes in the government's case and create reasonable doubt.

White-Collar Criminal Defense

Our attorneys defend business people facing white-collar crime charges like tax fraud, bankruptcy fraud, and embezzlement. These cases often involve thousands of documents and complex financial dealings. We carefully review all evidence to find flaws in the prosecution's case.

Drug Crimes & Conspiracy Cases

Florida's coastline makes it a focus for federal drug crimes. Our criminal defense lawyers protect clients facing serious drug charges and conspiracy charges. Federal drug trafficking charges can bring minimum sentences and jail time. Our legal services include challenging evidence from questionable searches and fighting against bodily injury enhancements that can increase your ultimate sentence.

Other Federal Crimes

We also defend clients against a wide variety of crimes, including:

  • Federal weapons charges
  • Immigration crimes
  • Violent crimes causing bodily harm
  • Sex trafficking
  • Child pornography
  • Crimes against children
  • Crimes on federal property or private property
  • Gang activity

No matter the crime level, from misdemeanors to offenses carrying the death penalty, our defense team fights for your rights.

Key Differences: Federal vs. State Crimes

Key Differences Federal vs State Crimes

Federal cases are not like state cases. They have different prosecutors, judges, and much harsher penalties. These differences change how we build your defense.

Federal courts follow their own rules. Having a lawyer who understands these differences can greatly impact your case outcome.

Jurisdictional Issues

Federal crimes typically involve:

  • Activities crossing state lines
  • Crimes on federal land
  • Offenses affecting interstate commerce
  • Violations of specific federal laws

In Florida, federal jurisdiction includes crimes on military bases, federal property, and national parks. The government has expanded its reach through commerce laws. Even using the internet can bring federal charges for otherwise local crimes.

Our defense team challenges these jurisdictional claims when possible. Sometimes, we can move cases to state court where penalties are less severe.

Tougher Federal Penalties

Federal convictions bring much harsher penalties than similar state charges. Many federal crimes have mandatory minimum sentences that judges can't reduce. Federal inmates must serve at least 85% of their prison sentence, with no parole option.

A drug offense in state court might mean probation. The same crime in Federal Court could mean 10 years in federal prison. Our federal defense lawyers work to either move your case to state court or negotiate plea deals that avoid these harsh sentences.

Common Federal Criminal Charges in Florida

Federal prosecutors in Florida focus on certain types of cases. Our defense team stays updated on these trends to build effective defense strategies.

Healthcare Fraud

South Florida has become known for healthcare fraud cases. Federal prosecutors target Medicare fraud, Medicaid fraud, and prescription drug schemes. These cases involve complex billing records and medical rules.

We work with billing experts to analyze evidence. Many alleged fraud cases are really just billing mistakes, not criminal activity.

Wire Fraud & Mail Fraud

These broad laws allow federal prosecution when mail or electronic communications are used in alleged schemes. In Florida, prosecutors often target:

  • Investment scams
  • Schemes targeting seniors
  • Internet crimes
  • Phishing schemes

We defend clients by showing the government can't prove intent to defraud—a key part of these charges.

Sex Crimes

Federal authorities aggressively prosecute sex crimes and child pornography cases. These charges bring some of the most severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

Our defense team looks at how evidence was collected. We find constitutional violations in searches that might make evidence inadmissible in court.

Identity Theft & Cybercrimes

Florida's tourism industry makes it a target for identity theft cases. Federal agencies pursue cases involving:

  • Data breaches
  • Credit card schemes
  • Intellectual property theft

We defend clients by examining digital evidence and challenging search warrants for electronic devices.

The Federal Prosecution Process in Florida

The Federal Prosecution Process in Florida

The federal criminal justice system follows different steps than state courts. Our federal crime attorneys guide you through each phase.

Investigation Phase

Federal investigations often start months or years before you know about them. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Postal Inspection Service, or U.S. Marshals Service may watch you for a long time before making arrests.

If you learn you're under federal investigation, we can help right away. Our attorneys can talk to prosecutors and sometimes resolve issues before formal charges are filed.

Indictment & Arraignment

Most federal cases begin with an indictment from a grand jury, often sealed until your arrest. After arrest, you'll see a judge who decides about release conditions.

Our team works fast to argue for a reasonable bond. Federal detention hearings are very different from state bail hearings. We prepare strong arguments to help get you released while awaiting trial.

Pre-Trial Motions

This important phase lets us challenge the government's evidence. We file motions to:

  • Suppress evidence from illegal searches
  • Question the admission of evidence
  • Request all exculpatory evidence
  • Dismiss charges when possible
  • Challenge jury subpoenas

Our appellate division and appellate attorneys work closely with our trial team to ensure you receive a fair trial. We pay special attention to challenging evidence from wiretaps or unreasonable searches by federal law enforcement agents.

Trial & Sentencing

If your case goes to trial, you'll face jury proceedings in the federal district. Federal court trials move faster than state proceedings. The government's high conviction rates in criminal prosecutions show why thorough preparation matters.

If convicted, you'll face a sentencing hearing based on federal sentencing guidelines. The sentencing decision can include additional penalties beyond prison time. Our attorneys prepare detailed arguments for your sentencing hearing, presenting factors that justify a lesser charge or reduced sentence in exchange for cooperation when appropriate.

Federal Criminal Sentencing in Florida

Federal sentencing involves complex rules. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for your defense from day one.

Our federal attorneys have deep experience with the sentencing system. We find all possible factors that could reduce your time in prison.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

Many federal crimes have statutory minimum sentences, and judges usually can't go below. Drug offenses often trigger 5, 10, or 20-year minimums based on drug type and amount.

Our defense team works to:

  • Avoid charges with mandatory minimums
  • Find exceptions to these rules
  • Negotiate favorable plea agreements

Federal Sentencing Guidelines

Federal judges use the Sentencing Guidelines to calculate punishment. These assign points based on your criminal background and offense details. Judges consider:

  • Base offense level
  • Amount of money in fraud cases
  • Drug quantity in trafficking cases
  • Whether weapons were involved
  • Role in the offense
  • Personal adjustment factors and additional adjustments

We analyze these guidelines during plea negotiations to find arguments for reduced sentences. This includes challenging what conduct gets attributed to you and showing mitigating factors that could decrease your potential penalties.

Presentence Investigation Reports

After conviction, probation officers create a report that influences sentencing. This presentence investigation report recommends a specific guidelines range.

Our team carefully reviews this report for errors and objects to any unfair information. We present your personal history in the best possible light to help secure a fair sentence.

Federal Courts vs. State Courts in Florida

Federal Courts vs. State Courts in Florida

The federal system operates differently than Florida's state courts. These differences affect your entire case.

Key Differences

Federal courts:

  • Move cases faster
  • Have stricter rules of evidence
  • Provide less discovery information
  • Have no parole system
  • Impose longer sentences
  • Have higher conviction rates

Having a lawyer with experience in federal criminal proceedings is crucial. Our attorneys understand federal district courts and how to defend you effectively in this system.

Defense Strategies

Defending federal cases requires special approaches. Federal prosecutors file formal charges only after extensive investigation by task forces and specialized federal law enforcement agencies like the Office of Inspector General.

This means we focus on:

  • Challenging legal theories
  • Questioning investigation methods
  • Interpreting complex federal laws
  • Preparing for sentencing from day one
  • Negotiating a plea bargain when it serves your interests

We develop robust defense strategies based on your specific criminal offense and the potential consequences you face. Our goal is always to secure the most favorable outcome for your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do federal investigations take?

Federal investigations often continue for months or years before charges are filed. Unlike state cases, federal agencies gather extensive evidence before making arrests. If you receive a target letter, contact us immediately—early help can sometimes prevent charges.

What percentage of federal cases end in guilty pleas?

About 90% of federal cases end with a plea bargain. This happens because federal prosecutors typically have strong evidence. Despite this, our federal defense attorneys often negotiate favorable plea deals to avoid additional convictions or severe consequences. We work to get charges reduced to a lesser charge with less jail time in exchange for cooperation when appropriate.

Why are federal conviction rates so high?

Federal prosecutors maintain conviction rates above 95% because they only bring charges after thorough investigations. Federal law enforcement agencies have more resources than state police. Early and aggressive defense is essential to challenge their case.

What happens after a federal arrest?

After arrest, you'll see a magistrate judge within 24 hours. The judge explains the charges and decides about detention. Federal detention decisions focus less on money bail and more on whether you'll appear in court.

Can state charges become federal charges?

Yes, state and federal authorities can both pursue charges for the same crime when it breaks both state and federal law. This means you could face prosecution in both systems, making it crucial to have a lawyer who understands both.

Contact The Florida Divorce & Criminal Defense Lawyer for Immediate Help

Contact The Florida Divorce & Criminal Defense Lawyer for Immediate Help

When facing federal charges, act fast. Federal cases move quickly, and early decisions affect your whole case. Our criminal defense team is available 24/7 to help after federal arrests.

We offer confidential initial consultations to discuss your situation and the potential consequences you face. Our law firm provides legal services throughout Florida, including West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Vero Beach, and Fort Walton Beach. Don't face federal probation or federal prison alone—contact our law office now for a free consultation, and let us put our defense team to work for you.

We fight for our clients' freedom and the future of their families.
call us today!
[wpb_childpages]

"*" indicates required fields

Full Name*
Required Fields *
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Expertise and Experience
Our team comprises seasoned attorneys with a proven track record in handling diverse civil and criminal cases. Whether you're navigating a divorce, custody battle, or facing criminal charges, we are equipped to provide comprehensive legal support.
Personalized Attention
We know that each case is distinct. Therefore, we dedicate ourselves to comprehensively understanding your needs and crafting a personalized approach to ensure the best possible outcome.
Proven Track Record
With a long list of satisfied clients and successful outcomes, we've established ourselves as a premier law firm serving Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
Convenient Locations
We serve clients across multiple locations, including Miami, Broward, West Palm Beach, Coral Gables, Downtown Miami, Brickell, Miami Beach, Palm Beach Island, Sunny Isles Beach, Wellington, Fort Lauderdale, and more.
Contact Us
Start your confidental consultation with us by filling out the form below and we will contact you about your case within 24 hours.

"*" indicates required fields

Full Name*
Required Fields *
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
chevron-downarrow-leftarrow-right