Federal crime arrests can greatly jeopardize the freedom and future of a defendant. With the legal guidance of our Knoxville federal criminal defense lawyer, you may be able to fight your charges.
Federal crime convictions may substantially damage your future, especially considering the heavy consequences that can result. Federal offenses also carry the potential for additional penalties on top of the consequences imposed for state crimes. This makes it extremely crucial that you retain a federal court defense attorney who is a skilled litigator and negotiator.
At the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we are always prepared to defend clients who are facing criminal charges that have been brought against them by the United States government. Such crimes are prosecuted with the backing of federal investigations that are conducted by agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Don't face these agencies and investigators alone! Our firm is here to provide the protection you need.
It's important to know the difference between federal court and state court. While state court upholds laws written and enforced by the state, federal law upholds laws decided by Congress. These can even include cases concerning matters of the U.S. Constitution and laws that govern federal employees or national security.
For example, illegal narcotic distribution is considered a state crime and will be seen in state court, but transporting narcotics across state lines, or bringing it into a U.S. state from another country, is a matter to be addressed in federal court.
Common Types of Federal Crimes in Tennessee
Many state crimes can be enhanced to federal crimes if aggravating factors are involved. It is crucial that you have a proven federal criminal defense lawyer on your side who can handle all types of federal cases.
Some of the most common types of federal crimes include:
As your federal crime lawyers, we can review all the evidence in your case, scrutinize the methods used by law enforcement, and identify any violations of your rights.
The penalties for federal crimes vary widely depending on the specific offense, the circumstances of the crime, and the offender's criminal history. Federal crimes are often treated more harshly than state crimes due to their broad impact on society and the greater resources of federal prosecutors.
Below are some general potential penalties for federal crimes, though it’s important to note that each case is unique and penalties are determined by a federal judge within sentencing guidelines.
Prison Sentences: Federal crimes often result in long prison sentences, ranging from several years to life, depending on the offense (e.g., drug trafficking, fraud, sex crimes, violent crimes).
Fines: Fines can vary significantly based on the offense, ranging from thousands to millions of dollars, particularly for drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, and environmental violations.
Restitution: Offenders may be required to pay restitution to victims, particularly in financial crimes or crimes causing harm to individuals.
Probation: In some cases, a convicted individual may serve time in the community under supervision instead of prison. Conditions include regular meetings with a probation officer and restrictions on activities.
Supervised Release: Post-incarceration monitoring, typically following a prison sentence, involving conditions similar to probation.
Death Penalty: In rare cases, federal crimes involving extreme violence or terrorism can result in the death penalty, such as for first-degree murder or mass casualty terrorism.
Collateral Consequences: Convictions can result in loss of rights (e.g., voting, firearms possession), challenges in employment, and long-term reputational damage.
Having a skilled Knoxville federal court defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference in how your case is handled and the outcome you achieve.
Understanding Federal Sentencing Guidelines
Federal sentencing guidelines are complex and can significantly impact the outcome of your case. These guidelines take into account various factors, including the nature of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating circumstances.
Here are some key aspects of federal sentencing that you should be aware of:
Mandatory Minimum Sentences: Certain federal offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences that judges must impose, regardless of the circumstances.
Sentencing Enhancements: Factors such as the use of a weapon or involvement in organized crime can lead to harsher penalties.
Acceptance of Responsibility: Demonstrating remorse and taking responsibility for your actions can sometimes result in a reduced sentence.
The Federal Criminal Process in Tennessee
The process for handling federal criminal cases is different from state criminal cases. Federal crimes are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal courts, and the procedures are governed by federal rules of criminal procedure.
The stages of a federal criminal case typically include:
Investigation and Arrest: Federal law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, or ATF, investigate suspected federal crimes. Once evidence is gathered, a suspect may be arrested, and formal charges are brought.
Indictment: In federal criminal cases, charges are typically brought through a grand jury indictment. This means that a group of citizens will review the evidence and decide whether there is enough evidence to charge you with a federal crime.
Pre-Trial Proceedings: After the indictment, there will be pre-trial hearings to address various legal issues, such as bail, discovery, and motions to suppress evidence. Your Knoxville federal crime attorney will represent you during these hearings and work to protect your rights.
Trial: If a plea deal is not reached, the case will proceed to trial. Federal trials are typically held before a judge and jury, and the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sentencing: If you are convicted, the judge will determine your sentence based on federal sentencing guidelines, which can include imprisonment, fines, and probation. Your federal law defense attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence possible.
Defending Federal Crime Charges in Tennessee
Defending federal crime charges in Tennessee involves several strategies tailored to the specifics of the case. A Knoxville federal crime attorney may challenge the evidence by questioning its legality or sufficiency, argue lack of intent or knowledge, provide an alibi or mistaken identity defense, claim entrapment if law enforcement induced the crime, or negotiate a plea deal to reduce charges or penalties. Each defense approach aims to protect your rights and minimize the consequences of federal charges.
Our Firm's Proven Success in Federal Court
While every case is different, it is important to work with a legal team that has successfully handled similar cases. With years of experience, our firm has taken on countless federal crime cases and has had extensive success.
Check out some of our most recent case results including:
"Reduced to probation" - In a bank wire fraud case, our client was facing five years in federal penitentiary. We successfully negotiated for probation and our client did not serve any jail time.
"Case dismissed" - In a felony forgery case, the District Attorney dismissed the charges the day before trial after challenges from our firm.
"Case dismissed" - In a serious drug crime case, our firm convinced the judge to drop the charges after showing that evidence was illegally obtained.
Contact Our Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in Knoxville Today
If convicted of a federal offense, you will likely serve a mandatory sentence in a federal prison. If you have been charged, let our attorney review your case and prepare a strategic defense on your behalf. We offer personalized representation throughout our clients' cases. During a free case evaluation, we can determine the most appropriate course of action to take in your case.
“Mr. Fanduzz is committed to nothing but the BEST outcome for his clients.”
Nearly two years ago, I was charged with DUI and Speeding. Due to my occupation, a conviction could be detrimental to my career. I contacted Mr. Fanduzz and he was able to have my case placed on Judicial Diversion, which required me to serve only one year supervised probation (reduced from two years) and court cost. I retained my drivers license and did not have to purchase expensive car insurance.
Unfortunately, while on probation, I was charged with two counts of assault and aggravated assault. Along with these new charges, I also faced violation of my probation and the original DUI. All charges were considered Felonies at this point. There was no hesitation in hiring him to represent me again. Mr. Fanduzz not only kept me well informed, he also skillfully and agressively argued on my behalf. He arranged for my probation and judicial diversion to be reinstated and the felony assault charges to be dismissed in exchange for a plea to a misdemeanor offence.
Needless to say, I highly recommend Mr. Fanduzz because of his attention to detail and commitment to have the BEST possible outcome for his clients.
NACDL
