Kent Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Kent Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing federal charges is an extremely serious matter, especially considering how life-altering the consequences can be. Whether you are actively being investigated or have already been charged, the stakes remain high—and so does the complexity of what you’re dealing with. To help achieve more control over your future, you need to hire a Kent federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Kent, Ohio

At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we bring over two decades of trusted experience to every criminal case we represent. Our firm was founded in 2003 and has been built over the years on our core values of innovation, client service, and integrity. We take pride in our progressive approach by offering modern legal strategies that make a difference. Allow us to show you firsthand what superior legal support looks like to help you achieve the outcome you deserve.

Common Types of Federal Crimes We Defend

Federal charges are designed to carry more serious penalties than state offenses. They require a strategic legal defense from someone who appreciates the complexities of the federal court. At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we represent clients across our community facing a broad range of charges, including:

• White collar crimes, like wire fraud, tax evasion, and identity theft
• Drug trafficking and distribution
• Conspiracy and racketeering
• Weapons offenses
• Internet crimes
• Hate crimes

To ensure we are always prepared to support our clients, we stay current on changes in federal law. We are always working proactively to defend our clients’ rights from the moment an investigation begins.

What to Expect if You’re Facing Federal Charges

Federal cases follow different procedures from state-level cases. They often move at a different pace as well. Here are a few things you can expect to encounter in the process:

• Investigation phase. The investigations are often long and confidential. Sometimes they involve subpoenas, search warrants, or surveillance.
  
• Grand jury indictment. Unlike charges at the state level, most federal charges require a grand jury to issue an indictment before the case can proceed.
  
• Detention hearings. This is the point where a judge will consider whether to release or detain someone before trial, often based on flight risk or danger to the broader community.
  
• Trial and sentencing. Sentencing guidelines are stricter at the federal level.

In a close-knit city like Kent, which has a population of only 27,720, facing a federal charge can quickly become a public ordeal. This makes early and strategic legal intervention even more critical. 

When a Criminal Charge Becomes a Federal Case

Not every crime is prosecuted at the federal level, but certain circumstances can elevate these charges beyond their state jurisdiction. 

Some of these circumstances include:

• Crossing state lines
• Any involvement with federal property or a federal agency
• Whether the crime falls under specific federal statutes, such as immigration or tax offenses
• Whether it’s classified as a hate crime under federal law

With 459 hate crimes reported across Ohio in 2023, federal prosecutors pay close attention to bias-motivated incidents. Whether or not an offense is labeled as a federal hate crime will impact how it’s charged, investigated, and sentenced. If there is even the possibility that your case could fall under federal jurisdiction, you need a defense lawyer who knows how to navigate both systems from the start. 

Why Choose Us?

At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, our client-first approach prioritizes your needs and results. Clients come to us because:

• We have a proven track record of dismissals and acquittals.
• Our attorneys bring decades of combined federal defense experience.
• We offer innovative, cost-effective legal strategies.
• Every case is treated with urgency.

When your future is on the line, you need legal support you can count on. We believe that we are that team, standing by, ready to fight with purpose.

FAQs

Q: When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A: Hiring a criminal defense attorney as soon as you can is always recommended. Once you are aware you’re under an investigation, find a lawyer you trust. Securing early legal counsel can help you avoid common missteps that could jeopardize the outcome you want. Even if you believe that your charge isn’t serious or is a simple misunderstanding, having a formal consultation with a defense lawyer can help you better understand the risks.

Q: Do Lawyers Get to Choose Who They Defend?

A: Private defense lawyers can choose who they defend, holding just as much autonomy as clients. Once you find an experienced lawyer, they will generally engage in an initial consultation. During this time, you will discuss the details of your case. They will take an assessment of what happened and give their recommendations on how you should move forward. If they believe they can help, they will offer their legal services.

Q: Are Minors Ever Charged With Federal Crimes?

A: Yes, there are instances where a minor might be charged with a federal crime. This typically occurs when the charge involves something that happened on federal property, involved federal agencies, or crossed state lines. While juvenile cases are generally treated more lightly, minors could be tried as adults, depending on the crime. In fact, there were 424,300 arrests in 2020 alone of individuals under the age of 18 across the country.

Q: Will Hiring a Lawyer Make Me Look Guilty?

A: No, hiring a lawyer will not make you look guilty. It’s a smart and proactive decision that shows you are taking the allegations seriously. Everyone understands that retaining legal counsel is about protecting your rights, even when you are confident the entire situation is a misunderstanding. A good defense lawyer also helps ensure you don’t say or do anything that could hand prosecutors new evidence to use against you later in court.

Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder Today

If you have recently been charged with a federal crime in Kent and are looking for superior legal representation, contact our firm today. We are ready to learn more about how we can get started working for you.