St. Louis Federal Crimes Lawyer

• Penalties: Federal penalties can include fines, probation, incarceration in federal prisons, and parole. On the other hand, penalties for state crimes vary widely from one state to another. Each state has its own criminal sentencing guidelines, which determine the potential penalties for specific offenses. Penalties may include fines, probation, incarceration in state prisons or county jails, and parole.
• Prosecution: Federal crimes are typically prosecuted by United States Attorneys, who work for the U.S. Department of Justice. Cases are heard in federal courts, with federal judges presiding over the proceedings. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors, who work for the state government. Cases are generally heard in state courts, with state judges presiding over the proceedings.
• Jury Selection: Federal juries are selected from a broader geographic area, usually the entire federal district. This can result in more diverse jury pools. While state juries are typically drawn from a more localized area, which may result in a jury pool that reflects the demographics of the specific jurisdiction.

It's important to note that some criminal acts can be prosecuted at both the federal and state levels, depending on the circumstances and applicable laws. In such cases, the choice of jurisdiction for prosecution may be influenced by factors like the severity of the offense and the resources available to the prosecuting authorities.

Because federal crimes differ from state crimes in many ways, it is essential for anyone facing federal charges to work with attorneys who are not only licensed to practice in federal court but who also have extensive experience dealing with federal prosecutors, federal law enforcement, and the steps needed to help accused individuals secure the most successful outcome possible when the stakes are high.

Defenses Against Federal Crimes Charges

Common defenses may include:

• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove each element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. In many cases, it may be possible to challenge the sufficiency or reliability of the evidence. If the prosecution's evidence is weak, unclear, or circumstantial, a defense lawyer may move to have the charges dismissed or reduced.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: Federal law enforcement agencies must follow strict procedures when investigating and gathering evidence. Any violation of constitutional rights, like unlawful search and seizure, may lead to evidence being excluded from the case. This can significantly weaken the prosecution's position and, in some cases, result in the dismissal of charges.
• Entrapment: Entrapment often occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. If entrapment can be proven, it may be a viable defense in federal cases, particularly in drug or conspiracy charges. This defense can be complex and typically involves showing that authorities persuaded or coerced the defendant into breaking the law.
• Insufficient Intent: Proving criminal intent is critical for a conviction in many federal crimes. If the prosecution cannot establish that the defendant acted with the required intent to commit the crime, this may serve as a strong defense. For instance, a defense lawyer may argue that the defendant's actions were unintentional or based on a misunderstanding in white-collar and financial crimes.
• Mistaken Identity: In some instances, mistaken identity can lead to wrongful accusations. Federal investigations often involve surveillance, informants, or undercover operations, and these methods are not immune to errors. A strong mistaken identity defense may involve challenging eyewitness accounts or pointing to gaps in surveillance or other evidence.
• Coercion or Duress: If a defendant committed a crime under threat of harm or pressure, they may be able to argue that they acted under duress. This defense applies when the defendant was forced to engage in illegal conduct due to a credible threat to their safety or the safety of others. Coercion defenses are more common in cases involving violent crimes or drug trafficking.

Contact Our Federal Crimes Attorneys in St. Louis Today

It is understandable for anyone facing a criminal allegation to feel overwhelmed and intimidated. During such chaotic and uncertain times, having bold and unwavering advocates by your side is simply invaluable.

We have successfully proven ourselves in the federal legal arena, and we maintain the confidence that all Missouri residents facing these allegations can depend on us in their time of need. We invite all residents Nationwide, who may be facing a federal charge, or their loved ones, to schedule a free case evaluation with a member of our legal team. Allow our lawyers to answer your questions, address your concerns, and inform you of the ways in which we can fight for the best possible terms. Trust your case to proven St. Louis federal crime attorneys.

Contact Hammer Law Firm, LLC today to get started with our St. Louis federal crimes lawyer.