Protecting Your Rights in Federal Criminal Cases

Being charged with a federal crime can be a serious matter. It can be intimidating and overwhelming, carrying severe, life-altering consequences. The stakes are high whether you’re accused of financial crimes, drug offenses, or immigration violations. It’s crucial to understand your rights and take immediate action to protect your future and freedom.

Types of Federal Crimes

Federal crimes are offenses that violate one or more U.S. federal statutes. These often involve interstate or federal interests. Some of the common categories include the following:

Cybercrimes: Hacking, internet fraud, cyber stalking, and child pornography

Financial Crimes: Bank, wire, or mail fraud, money laundering, embezzlement, identity theft, and healthcare fraud

Interstate/International Crimes: Transporting stolen goods, human trafficking, and kidnapping

Drug Offenses: Manufacturing, possessing, and/or trafficking controlled substances

Organized Crime: Extortion, racketeering, extortion, and illegal gambling

Federal Property Crimes: Theft, destruction, arson, and vandalism

Crimes Against the Government: Tax evasion, bribery, espionage, terrorism, and obstruction of justice

There are several other categories, like civil rights violations, immigration offenses, and crimes related to firearms/explosives. If found guilty, you may face hefty fines, forfeiture of assets, additional orders, and lengthy prison time. Each of these is enforced by federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, DHS, and ATF and prosecuted in federal courts.

Understanding Your Constitutional Rights 

If you are accused of a federal crime, the Constitution of the United States affords you   essential protections, regardless of your immigration status, to safeguard your rights during investigation, arrest, and prosecution.

4th Amendment: This protects you from unlawful searches and seizures. Any evidence obtained unlawfully becomes inadmissible in court.

5th Amendment: This provides you the right to remain silent, protecting you against self-incrimination and double jeopardy. If you’re arrested or questioned, you can invoke your right to remain silent under the 5th Amendment and request an attorney to proceed forward.

6th Amendment: This guarantees you the right to a speedy trial, an impartial jury, and proper legal counsel. This way, you have the legal representation you need and deserve to ensure your rights are respected.

A federal  charge isn’t easy to navigate. It’s best to entrust your case to an experienced defense attorney to improve your chances of reducing or dismissing your charges.

When a Federal Agent Appears At Your Door

Federal agents can show up at your door unannounced. Here’s what you should do if you are approached by a federal agent: 

Stay calm and do not obstruct their actions. Ask for their identification and a valid warrant. You aren’t obligated to allow entry if they lack a court-ordered search warrant. 

If you’re contacted or arrested by a federal agent, you can politely decline to answer any of their questions and request that attorney be present for any questioning that may take place. . Do not fight back; do not resist; it can result in additional charges.

Remember, you have the right to remain silent. Whatever the situation is, contact a criminal defense lawyer to advise you on your rights. Early intervention by a skilled lawyer can positively change the course of your case.

Contact LGR Law LLC Today For Help

If you’re under investigation or charged with a federal crime, attorney Lorraine Gauli-Rufo at LGR Law, LLC can guide you through the complex legal process. She can fight for your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Call (973) 239-4300 today for a case evaluation.