Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Tampa, FL

Facing any criminal charge is daunting, but a federal criminal conviction can change your life forever. You may wonder when a crime becomes a federal offense and the differences between federal and state proceedings.

Fortunately, a federal criminal defense attorney can answer your questions and represent you aggressively in court. If you’re charged with a federal offense, quick legal intervention can significantly improve your chances of a desirable outcome.

Contact Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A., at 813-258-4800 or online for a free consultation.

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When Can You Be Charged with a Federal Crime?

Most state-level crimes have federal counterparts, such as RICO charges. However, a crime can be charged at the federal level if the offense directly violates federal law or it occurs across state lines. Federal charges can also be issued for crimes allegedly occurring on federal property, investigated by federal agents, or discovered through an informant.

Some offenses may be charged on either the state or federal level. In these cases, the prosecution usually decides how the charges should be filed and where the case is heard. If a crime can be charged on the federal level, it often is as federal charges carry harsher penalties than those at the state level.

Common Federal-Level Crimes

Federal charges are often issued by government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Drug and Weapons Crimes

Federal charges can be filed for several drug and weapons crimes in Florida, such as:

  • Drug possession, manufacturing, and trafficking – these are common federal charges since they often involve moving illegal drugs across state lines or between countries. High quantities of drugs and evidence of manufacturing can also elevate the charges.
  • Illegal possession of a firearm – some convictions, such as felony convictions, make it illegal to own a firearm. Having a gun when your record outlaws it can have serious consequences.
  • Weapons trafficking – As with drug trafficking, federal agencies take strong measures to crack down on the movement of arms between states and countries.

Sex Crimes and Violent Crimes

Sex crimes can carry severe penalties that extend beyond a prison sentence. Being required to register as a sex offender can permanently affect your reputation and your ability to find employment and housing. For example, possessing, creating, or distributing child pornography is frequently a federal offense.

Some violent crimes can also be prosecuted federally, such as armed robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, kidnapping, and murder.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Brett is the best attorney I’ve ever had. I would recommend his services to anyone in need.
Pink Taylor

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06.07.2021

“James Falls did an amazing job helping my son get some charges dismissed. He communicated with us and explained situations where we would’ve otherwise been clueless to maneuver the justice system. Highly recommend their service!”

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Sherri Albert

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05.20.2021

“This firm is the real deal … James does not mess around when it comes to his clients. Very professional.”

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Adrian Reyes

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01.20.2021

“Brett Metcalf is the best lawyer in the Tampa Bay area. He puts 100% into his work and goes far and beyond what you would expect out of a lawyer. If it wasn’t for Brett and Sam, my husband and…

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Janice Luke

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11.19.2020

“This guy treated me like I was a paying customer. He didn’t give me his opinion, he got on the phone to two separate places and got answers. Very impressed. Great free consultation. Telicia Rose went above and beyond in…

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Lee Yates

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09.18.2020

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Samantha

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08.03.2020

“Brett is an awesome professional attorney! I highly recommend him. Great responsive time and needed information.I will be calling Brett anytime legal advice is needed!!!! GREAT JOB BRETT”

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Heidi Taylor

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07.07.2020

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Latisha Walker

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06.25.2020

“Mr.Metcalf was very quick to call me back for a consultation, even though it was just a consultation. I give him 5 stars for being quick to call me back, was very professional and informative he talked to me as…

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Anthony Garcia

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06.20.2020

“Great attorney.”

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Jesse P. (Big J)

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06.18.2020

“Excellent lawyer.”

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Shell 4evr

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02.27.2019

“Extremely professional and clearly the sharpest tool in any toolbox. Set the tone in the courtroom. This has to be one of the best law offices in Tampa. Thanks, Brett.”

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Daniel Turner

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08.06.2016

“Brett made the process as easy as possible for me on my end, letting me know all options and possible outcomes based on my choices. He was also very attentive and quick to respond to my questions.”

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Clay

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08.06.2016

“I could not be any happier with my experience with Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. I would advise anyone who needs legal action to choose wisely and choose him for multiple reasons.”

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Marty McPhly

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08.08.2016

“In late 2015, I was in need of a lawyer who could help me. Looking on the internet and asking friends if they knew any great ones was looking pretty bad. Then my younger brother told me about a lawyer…

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Elijah Turner

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08.14.2019

“He did an amazing job for me in Polk County! When I got involved in a situation that needed a criminal lawyer, I was terrified. Having only lived in Florida a few years, I was not prepared for the complexity…

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Lisa Welsh

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08.08.2016

“Brett Metcalf is a top-notch attorney. He also understands that preparation and hard work are keys to success. He possesses the knowledge, the insights, and the advocacy skills to put your legal woes in the past. Equally important, he follows…

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Charles Goddard

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08.10.2016

“Brett Metcalf provides forward-thinking and effective legal counsel. I highly recommend Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A.”

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Annie Shipherd

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08.12.2016

“Very knowledgeable and compassionate. I always felt like I could contact him with questions at any time. He was extremely thorough with information – I can’t stress that enough! I would definitely hire him again and recommend him to anyone,…

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Christa Murray

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08.13.2016

“Brett Metcalf was the best experience that I’ve ever had with any legal professional! He was understanding, honest, and worked diligently throughout my entire DUI case I had several years back. Even with the odds stacked against me, he was…

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Nathan Hester

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04.05.2017

“Brett helped me win full custody of my kids. Any and every question I had, he was right there to answer and explain the process. He was open and honest about the whole process. Extremely good price… and even better…

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James Woodson

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12.02.2017

“I have consulted with Brett on various issues and have found him to be excellent. He is very practical in potential outcomes on legal issues and very reasonable.”

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Albert Piccolo

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04.06.2017

“Wonderful experience with Brett Metcalf. If I had to do it again, I would not change a thing. It’s a good feeling when you know you’re in good hands and your attorney is genuinely concerned about the outcome of your…

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Gerald

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04.08.2017

“Brett Metcalf is the best lawyer in the Tampa Bay area. He puts 100% into his work and goes far and beyond what you would expect out of a lawyer. If it wasn’t for Brett, my husband and I would…

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Janice Luke

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04.09.2017

“Mr. Metcalf was there for me at the most difficult and life-changing time in my life. I was treated respectfully the whole entire process, despite my embarrassing and shameful mistake. He extended honesty and professional courtesy throughout my case, guiding…

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Sharley Lanigan

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04.10.2017

“If you’ve decided to scroll past all the other positive reviews and find yourself reading mine, I’ll start out by saying Brett’s the man. He handles business efficiently and professionally, with the clients’ best interests in mind at all times….

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Evin O

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06.19.2017

“Brett went far out of his way for my multiple cases and managed to keep me a free man even with all the charges that were put on me. 100% behind him from Plant City.”

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Issac Thomas

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08.06.2018

“Brett is an extremely knowledgeable attorney who is a straight shooter, hard worker, and always willing to go the extra mile to fight for his clients. I’ve had to use him two separate times and was more than pleased with…

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Ryan Belden

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01.11.2019

“Mr. Metcalf is very knowledgeable, friendly, and on top of things. In the midst of my confusion and thoughts of the worst possible outcome, Mr. Metcalf took charge and handled the situation with professionalism and tact. I am very pleased…

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Sherry Violet

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09.18.2019

“Brett is the best attorney I’ve ever had. I would recommend his services to anyone in need. Most lawyers just want the money, ignore your calls, and settle for deals. Not Brett! He answered and returned every call! Every penny…

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Pink Taylor

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Federal Investigation and Prosecution Process

The federal criminal court system operates differently than Florida state courts, especially in the early stages.

Federal Investigation

Federal agencies investigate alleged crimes and build their cases by conducting interviews and collecting evidence. Investigations can last weeks or months.

Grand Jury

To bring federal charges, prosecutors must call a grand jury — a critical difference between federal and state court proceedings. During a grand jury, the prosecution puts forth evidence, including calling witnesses. A group of jurors decides whether there is enough evidence to charge you with a federal crime. If the grand jury sees sufficient evidence, they will hand down an indictment to bring formal charges.

Initial Hearing and Arraignment

If an indictment is handed down, you will be arrested and officially charged. The next step is an arraignment, where you go before a magistrate judge. At the arraignment, you hear the charges against you, learn whether you can be released on bail, and enter a plea.

Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions

After the initial hearing, your attorney and the prosecution will start the discovery process, which involves exchanging documents, evidence, and witness testimony relevant to the case.

During this time, your attorney or the prosecution may begin negotiations on a plea bargain. Plea bargains aren’t always offered in federal cases, especially when the prosecution believes it has strong evidence.

Criminal Trial

If you cannot reach a plea deal, both sides will prepare for trial. Throughout this process, you need a federal criminal defense attorney with years of experience fighting federal charges.

What to Do if You’re Arrested for a Federal Crime

You may not even know you’re under investigation for a federal crime until you’re arrested. If you are arrested, take these steps to protect your rights:

  • Remain calm and quiet. Arguing with police or resisting arrest can only make matters worse. Be polite but don’t speak to the police beyond giving them your identifying information. Anything else you reveal can be used against you.
  • Decline to let officers search your property. If the police have a warrant, they don’t need your permission to conduct a search. But if they don’t have a warrant and ask to search you or your property, you can respectfully decline.
  • Ask for a federal criminal defense attorney. Invoke your right to an attorney as soon as possible if you’re arrested so your counsel can begin working on the next steps.
  • Be honest with your attorney. Your lawyer can only do their best to protect your interests if you’re truthful. Remember that any communication between you and your attorney is confidential.

Charged with A Federal Crime in Tampa? Metcalf Falls Can Help

Being charged with a federal crime is intimidating, but there are options for defensive strategies to fight for your case’s dismissal or minimize the consequences of a conviction. Our team will investigate your case and build you the strongest defense possible.

Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys P.A. are experienced in handling criminal defense at the federal level. To discuss how we can help in your case, schedule a free consultation online or by calling 813-258-4800 today.

Frequently Asked Questions