Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Tampa, FL

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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 Tampa 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.

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.

What Are 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 transporting illegal drugs across state lines or between countries. High quantities of drugs and evidence of manufacturing can also elevate the charges. A federal drug charges lawyer can help you understand the severity of these accusations and build a strong defense.
  • 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.

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What is the Federal Investigation and Prosecution Process?

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

Your Case Starts with a Federal Investigation

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

Prosecutors Will Present to a 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.

You Will Have an 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.

Before a Trial, There Are Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions

After the initial hearing, your Tampa federal criminal defense 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 Tampa federal defense lawyer 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.

You will Go to Court for a Criminal Trial

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

What Should I Do if I’m 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 Tampa federal defense lawyer 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