Category: Federal Criminal Defense

What Is Federal Wire Fraud?

Federal wire fraud is one of the most common financial offenses in the federal system. Prosecutors often file these charges against someone they believe used emails, phone calls, online payments, or other electronic communications to further a financial scheme. When prosecutors bring federal wire fraud charges, they generally focus on…

How Long Can the Federal Government Investigate You?

TL;DR Federal investigations can last months or even years, depending on the complexity of the case and the evidence involved. Common signs you’re being investigated include target letters, grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, surveillance, frozen assets, or an indictment. Most federal crimes have a 5-year statute of limitations, but some…

Signs of Being Under Federal Investigation

TL;DR Receiving a Target Letter: Notification from the U.S. Attorney’s Office indicating you’re a subject in a federal grand jury investigation. Visit from Federal Agents: Agents from agencies like the FBI or IRS appear at your home or workplace, often with a search warrant. Unusual Surveillance: Noticing unfamiliar individuals or…

The Most Common Federal Crimes and Their Penalties

Federal criminal charges have different procedures and more serious consequences than many cases handled in state courts. Federal investigators spend months or years building cases. United States attorneys rely on detailed statutes and sentencing guidelines to seek severe penalties. Below is a list of federal crimes that are commonly charged…

Potential Issues with Federal Criminal Cases

Federal criminal cases work differently from state prosecutions. Sometimes, those differences create real challenges for anyone under investigation or facing charges. The biggest difference is that federal agencies often spend months or even years building cases before making an arrest. That means you need representation long before you potentially step…