When facing federal criminal charges in Orlando, Florida, it’s essential to have a skilled Orlando federal criminal defense attorney who understands the complex federal court system.
Federal charges often come with severe consequences. Not only do you face lengthy prison sentences and massive fines, but you may also face damage to your reputation—even if you are acquitted.
What Is Federal Criminal Law?
The most obvious difference between federal criminal law and Florida law is that federal charges arise when an individual violates US federal laws instead of Florida State laws. Since the laws stem from different authorities, different courts prosecute the crimes. Federal offenses are usually considered more severe and carry harsher penalties, often due to criminal activity across multiple states.
Federal Courts vs. State Courts
US District Courts, such as the one in Orlando, have jurisdiction over federal criminal cases. Often, these crimes have to be tried in federal courts because they took place in multiple states. To compensate, federal courts have different procedural rules and sentencing guidelines.
What Types of Federal Criminal Charges Are Common in Orlando?
There are over 5,000 federal criminal offenses, but some common crimes in Orlando include:
- White-collar crimes. White-collar crimes involve financial crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, and insider trading. Due to their complex, interstate nature, these crimes are usually prosecuted under federal law and include severe financial penalties, restitution, and long prison sentences.
- Drug trafficking and conspiracy. Drug trafficking is one of the most common federal offenses and includes the manufacture, possession, and distribution of drugs across state or national borders. Drug-related crimes have mandatory minimum sentences based on the type and amount of drugs involved.
- Child pornography and cybercrimes. The federal government aggressively prosecutes child pornography crimes, whether it is the possession, distribution, or production of such material. Because crimes that occur online almost always reach across state lines, federal jurisdiction applies, which can lead to more severe consequences.
Remember that there are thousands of federal crimes, and the effects of criminal activity often reach through multiple states, even if it wasn’t intentional.
What Should I Expect During a Federal Criminal Case in Orlando?
Your attorney can walk you through exactly what will happen during your case, but in general you should be prepared for:
- An initial investigation and arrest;
- The sharing of discovery, which is the evidence the government has against you;
- Pretrial hearings that might involve pretrial motions and arguments;
- Plea bargaining and negotiations;
- Going to trial if the parties cannot reach a plea bargain;
- A sentencing hearing if the judge or jury convicts you; and
- Appeals.
The entire process for federal criminal charges can take years if your case goes to trial and even longer if you are convicted and appeal the decision.
Why Should I Hire An Orlando Federal Criminal Defense Attorney?
An experienced federal criminal defense lawyer is invaluable if you are facing federal charges. Criminal defense attorneys for federal courts need a deep understanding of federal law, which can differ significantly from state law. An experienced lawyer will be familiar with the procedural rules and sentencing guidelines specific to federal court. They can also help with the following:
- Challenging evidence in court. The burden of proof falls on the prosecution in criminal trials, and they also have procedural rules they must follow. The right attorney can identify constitutional violations, challenge the prosecution’s case in court, and create doubt in the minds of a jury.
- Negotiating advantageous plea deals. Sometimes, individuals choose to plead to lesser charges instead of taking the chance of receiving the maximum penalty at trial. Attorneys can work with the prosecutor to reduce charges and get them to agree to lesser penalties.
- Mitigating your sentence. If you get convicted at trial or take a plea where the judge imposes your sentence, your attorney can argue for reduced sentencing based on mitigating circumstances. Such mitigation can be based on your lack of prior criminal record, cooperation with authorities, or other circumstances surrounding the event.
Having an attorney helps in other ways. Federal courts have strict guidelines on how criminal proceedings take place, and a lack of knowledge could result in the loss of your freedom.
If you’re facing federal criminal charges, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. The federal legal system is complex; navigating it without expert help can lead to big mistakes and long-term consequences that are difficult to remedy after the fact.
Mistakes at this level can lead to lengthy federal prison sentences, hefty fines, and deep damage to your reputation and life. That’s why having a lawyer who knows federal cases inside and out is crucial.
Why Choose Moses and Rooth As Your Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Federal charges often involve interstate crimes and investigations by high-powered federal agencies. The difference in resources can make things challenging for defendants, who might not have the same power, to fight back.
Having seasoned criminal defense attorneys in federal court can make all the difference in your case. Moses and Rooth Attorneys at Law are your trusted advocates in this complex legal landscape. We bring extensive trial experience and a profound understanding of the federal and state criminal justice systems to the table to help safeguard your rights.
At Moses and Rooth, we firmly believe you are innocent until proven guilty. This foundational belief shapes our mission, which is to provide comprehensive, strategic, and unwavering defense for every client we represent. Our commitment goes beyond legal representation; it is a pledge to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Common Federal Crime in Orlando?
In 2022, drugs accounted for over 40% of federal crimes in the Middle District of Florida, where Orlando lies. Orlando also ranked higher than the national average in fraud, child pornography, sexual abuse, and money laundering.
Can I Win My Orlando Federal Court Case?
Florida is harsh on federal crimes. Nearly 97% of individuals accepted a plea deal when accused of committing a federal crime in Florida. Out of those that went to trial, almost 97% of them got prison time and generally received longer sentences.
What Are the Consequences of Federal Convictions?
Federal convictions usually come with harsher penalties than state crimes due to the severity and scope of the crimes. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines often recommend lengthy prison sentences. Depending on the nature of the crime, offenders could face anywhere from 10 years to life for violent crimes. Other consequences include:
- Hefty fines. Depending on the severity of the crime, financial penalties can range from thousands to millions of dollars.
- Damage to reputation. A federal conviction can ruin your professional life, making it hard to find housing and employment. Being charged with a federal crime can also affect your reputation in the community, even if you are acquitted.
- Loss of civil rights. Convicted felons typically lose the right to vote and own firearms. They may also be barred from obtaining loans, traveling internationally, or holding public office.
Depending on the sentence, you could also face further consequences like registering as a sex offender, which limits employment and housing options even further.
Although it is impossible to predict any legal case with absolute certainty, 90.9% of convicted individuals received a prison sentence in federal court. Of the individuals who didn’t receive prison time, most were for non-violent white-collar crimes.
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