Akron Federal Crimes Lawyers

Hard-Hitting Defense for Federal Offenses in Summit County, Portage County, Stark County & Medina County

Federal crimes routinely carry the most severe penalties of all criminal offenses. Successful defense against federal charges usually requires the skill and knowledge that is possessed by an experienced Akron federal criminal defense lawyer. At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, our Akron federal crime attorneys possesses the experience necessary to provide one with an aggressive defense in their federal crime case.

Our team has been practicing law for a combined 85 years, and have both served as prosecutors in the course of their legal careers. This allows them to take both defense and prosecution into account when representing a client, thereby maximizing the client's chances of a beneficial resolution to their case.

If you've been charged for a federal crime, contact us today at (330) 787-9841 for aggressive defense from our Akron federal criminal defense lawyers.

What are Federal Crimes?

Federal crimes are those crimes which directly contravene federal legislation. Federal charges can also be levied at an individual who has committed a crime while on federal land (such as a government building or national park).

What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Crimes?

When a crime is committed, whether the state or federal government has jurisdiction over the case depends on several factors. Generally, state crimes are those that violate state laws and occur within the state’s borders. An offense is handled by the federal government when it (or the defendant) crosses state lines, happens on federal property (such as a post office), or violates federal laws.

In some cases, crimes can fall under both jurisdictions, and the accused can be tried in both state and federal court. Although the Fifth Amendment contains a “double jeopardy” provision, prohibiting a person from being tried for the same offense twice, the clause only applies to multiple prosecutions by the same sovereign. Thus, because state and federal governments are separate sovereigns, each can prosecute and penalize a defendant for the same crime.

Who Investigates Federal Crimes?

Federal crime investigations are often lengthy and thorough. They are handled by agents from various federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Drug Enforcement Agency; Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Secret Service. The agency hands evidence obtained during its investigation to a U.S. Attorney who will prosecute the case.

Types of Federal Crimes

The include serious offenses such as:

• Sex crimes: Several federal statutes prohibit sex-related conduct. A few of the laws concern sexual abuse, aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a minor or ward, abusive sexual contact, and sexual exploitation of children (or child pornography).
• Drug crimes: Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone to create, manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled or counterfeit substance. Federal statutes also forbid people from possessing drugs, or using the internet to sell them.
• White Collar: Generally, these types of offenses take place in business settings. They are financially motivated crimes that usually involve a scheme to defraud a person out of money or property. A few examples of federal white collar crimes include securities fraud, identity theft, bank fraud, and money laundering.
• Weapons Crimes: The federal government has several statutes concerning prohibited behavior involving weapons and firearms. For instance, it’s illegal for specific people to possess guns or ammunition. It’s also unlawful to transport, ship, or receive a firearm whose serial number has been removed or altered.

What Are the Penalties for Federal Crimes?

The penalties attendant to most federal crimes are very serious. They can include fines literally in the millions of dollars, probation, mandatory forfeiture of personal property, and lengthy prison sentences. It is crucial that you have strong representation in the event that you are charged with a federal crime, as the prosecution in such cases is usually well prepared and in possession of considerable resources.

Examples of federal conviction penalties include the following:

Trafficking in a Schedule I or II Drug

First offense:

• Up to 20 years in prison and/or
• Up to $1,000,000 (if the defendant is an individual)

Second offense:

• Up to 30 years in prison and/or
• Up to $2,000,000 in fines (if the defendant is an individual)

The penalties for a drug trafficking offense can increase if anyone was injured or died as a result of using the controlled substance. The court can also sentence the defendant to an additional term of imprisonment if they possessed, displayed, or used a firearm during the commission of the drug crime.

Child Pornography

First offense:

• Between 15 and 30 years in prison and/or
• A fine

Second offense:

• Between 25 and 50 years in prison and/or
• A fine

Third or subsequent offense:

• Between 35 years and life in prison and/or
• A fine

Money Laundering

• Up to 20 years in prison and/or
• A fine of up to $500,000, or double the amount of the funds involved

Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person

• Up to 10 years in prison and/or
• A fine

If the defendant has three prior violent felony or drug crime convictions:

• A minimum of 15 years in prison and
• A fine

Representation for Federal Cases in Ohio

Your attorney must have the experience and wherewithal required to be able to challenge the validity of the opposition's case, and possibly secure an outcome that involves the reduction or elimination of your charges.

It is recommended that you contact an Akron federal crime defense attorney if you have been charged with a federal crime, as you will likely be facing very serious penalties. Call us at (330) 787-9841.