Federal crimes
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on LinkedIn

If you are facing federal criminal charges, you may be asking yourself a fundamental question: what exactly is a federal crime? How is it defined, and what are the implications of being charged? This is hardly an academic topic because the answers to such questions could have serious consequences for your finances, freedom, and future. Have you been charged with a federal crime in Detroit and want to know what your legal options are? Speak to the team at Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan.

The Basics of Federal Charges

Federal statutes cover the entire United States. They are enacted by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by the president. Federal crimes violate federal statutes that make certain actions (or failures to act) illegal. Government agencies, most notably the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), investigate federal crimes. However, they often work in concert with other agencies like the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and Securities and Exchange Commission.

Although states have their own criminal statutes, they are generally limited to activities that occur within the state or somehow affect it. State penalties are also often less severe than federal penalties. That’s because federal laws tend to deal with far more serious matters. For instance, while state laws govern relatively less severe crimes like speeding on state roads, federal statutes cover:

Federal courts try defendants who have been accused of federal crimes. The judges and the prosecutors who make their way into the federal system are considered some of the best and toughest in the country. Judges are nominated by the president, confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and serve for life. Federal prosecutors, meanwhile, are chosen after working their way up from the state courts. Judges are, therefore, more likely to take a hard line against defendants, while prosecutors will aggressively pursue high conviction rates.

For many crimes that are prosecuted in the federal criminal court system, there are mandatory minimum sentences set by Congress. These tend to be crimes involving drugs, firearms, and white collar offenses. By some estimates, about 90% of defendants charged with federal crimes are ultimately convicted.

Potential Consequences of a Federal Conviction

If you are convicted of a federal crime, you may expect the following penalties:

  • Prison time: As mentioned above, you might be facing a mandatory minimum sentence depending upon the crime. More generally, your sentence will depend on the severity of the crime, your criminal history, and other factors.
  • Civil penalties: Some crimes, especially so-called white-collar crimes like fraud and money laundering, require asset forfeiture and the payment of financial penalties to compensate victims and to serve as a deterrent.
  • Loss of civil liberties: A federal conviction may result in the loss of your right to vote, to own a firearm, or to run for office. It might also be more difficult to obtain certain federal benefits like student financial aid. Sex offenders must register and submit themselves to additional restrictions while non-citizens may be deported.
  • Employment and education problems: Certain felony convictions will make it difficult or impossible to obtain some types of employment, especially if the job requires specific licenses or security clearances. You may also find it more difficult to enroll in college or to obtain housing due to your criminal conviction.

Serious Charges Deserve Serious Legal Representation

For obvious reasons, nobody wants to deal with the stress and potential ramifications of a federal criminal charge. That’s why you need dedicated legal counsel to advocate for your rights and seek the best possible outcome in your case. Call Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan. We can review the charges against you and put together a robust, personalized defense. Connect with us today.

About the Author
Led by Sanford Schulman, the Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan bring to each client over three decades of experience and many ‘not guilty’ verdicts. With your life, livelihood, and that of your family on the line, you don’t just deserve a team that goes to bat for you on a daily basis; you absolutely need one. Our attorneys spare no effort, skill, or determination in serving defendants and their families. We strive to provide an unparalleled level of commitment and ability to your case—precisely when you need it most.