Brookhaven Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Federal Criminal Defense

Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Brookhaven, GA

Being charged with a federal crime can be frightening. Federal prisons, extreme fines, and a lasting criminal record can be life-changing penalties. If you are facing a federal criminal charge, a Brookhaven, GA, federal criminal defense lawyer can defend your rights and push for not guilty verdicts, reduced charges, and lowered penalties.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers in Brookhaven

The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has experience in both state and federal courts, which is essential if you are facing federal charges. With over 25 years of experience and a deep knowledge of federal criminal defense laws, we can create a strong defense tailored to the details of your case. We know federal charges can be overwhelming, but our personalized guidance through each step of this process can help you navigate the legal system and protect your future.

Understanding the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes

Georgia’s state law governs most criminal offenses, outlining the definitions of various offenses, the legal procedures involved, and the penalties involved. However, certain offenses violate federal laws or are within federal jurisdiction, making them federal crimes. In 2023, 1,340 individuals were sentenced for a federal crime in Georgia. Some reasons a crime becomes a federal charge include:

• Involving multiple states: When criminal activity occurs in multiple states or affects interstate commerce, it can be a federal offense. Often, drug trafficking, large-scale fraud, and cybercrime are federal crimes for this reason.
• Occurring on federal property: Federal criminal courts have jurisdiction over military bases, national parks, post offices, and other federal land and buildings, making offenses that occur on this property federal crimes.
• Violating civil rights: While Georgia does provide additional civil rights protections, civil rights violations or hate crimes can become federal cases.
• Involving a federal program or agency: If a crime is committed through a federal agency or program, it can become a federal criminal charge. This can include using the U.S. postal system or Medicare to conduct fraudulent criminal activity.
• Racketeering and organized crime: The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act is a federal law that causes many organized criminal activities to become federal crimes.

Why You Should Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

A federal criminal defense case is one of the most stressful experiences, especially without an experienced lawyer to help you navigate this process. A Brookhaven federal criminal defense lawyer can pursue not guilty verdicts or dismissed or reduced charges by:

• Defending your rights during an investigation: With federal charges, your case will likely be investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or specialized federal investigators rather than the local Brookhaven Police Department. A lawyer can uphold your right against self-incrimination and unreasonable searches and seizures by communicating with the FBI on your behalf and advising you on what to do.
• Analyzing the evidence used against you: There must be sufficient evidence against you to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the crime you are charged with. If there is insufficient evidence, or evidence that is being used is faulty or was illegally-obtained, your lawyer can argue that there is not enough proof. They can also file a motion to suppress evidence that is false or obtained illegally.
• Developing a defense strategy for your case: A lawyer can identify a defense strategy that reflects the unique circumstances and factors involved in your defense. This may involve presenting exculpatory evidence that proves your innocence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, arguing that you lacked the intent to commit the crime, or arguing that you were coerced into committing the crime.
• Negotiating for lighter penalties: Lawyers can use several techniques to minimize the negative consequences of a federal criminal case. They can negotiate a plea deal in which you plead guilty to a lesser charge for a lower sentence. They can also present factors that mitigate the seriousness of your offense, such as personal circumstances or a limited involvement in the crime.
• Advocating for you in court: Trying to advocate for yourself in a federal court can feel overwhelming or even hopeless. A lawyer can advocate on your behalf throughout this process, easing your stress and ensuring your defense is presented with clarity and accuracy.

FAQs

What Penalties Can a Federal Crime Have?

The penalties for a federal crime depend on your offense, criminal history, and the circumstances of your offense. Generally, federal crimes can include imprisonment ranging from months to life in prison, fines and restitution payments to victims, a permanent criminal record, and supervised release. Your Brookhaven federal criminal defense attorney can determine what penalties you may face and create a strategy to minimize them.

Can a Federal Crime Be a Misdemeanor in Brookhaven, GA?

Yes, while federal crimes are often thought of as more serious crimes, a federal crime can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony in Brookhaven, GA. This is because a federal crime involves violating specific federal laws or occurring in federal jurisdiction, rather than being determined by the seriousness of the offense.

Where Will You Serve a Sentence for a Federal Crime?

Federal sentences can be served in a prison or jail operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons rather than the DeKalb County Jail or one of Georgia’s state prisons. Whenever possible, you will serve your sentence in a facility within 500 miles of Brookhaven. The Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Atlanta, the FCI Jesup, or the United States Penitentiary (USP) Atlanta are all possible locations for a federal sentence.

What Are the Four Most Common Federal Crime Cases?

The four most common types of federal crimes are drug offenses, immigration offenses, firearm violations, and fraud, making up over 80% of all federal crimes. Typically, these types of crimes are federal crimes because they involve crossing state lines, though they may have other reasons, such as occurring through federal systems or on federal property. Regardless of what federal crime you are charged with, hire a federal criminal defense lawyer for assistance.

Learn How a Brookhaven Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

If you have a federal criminal case, contact The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman for a free case consultation. We can guide you through this process and help you limit the negative impact of your charge on your future.