Federal Crimes FAQ

What is a Federal Crime?

Federal crimes are crimes that are codified by the United States Congress in statutes or set forth in federal rules or regulations. Some federal and state crimes are the same or similar. For example, both states and the federal government have laws proscribing conduct involving firearms, illegal drugs, and frauds.

What is the difference between a federal and state crime?

The main difference between a federal and state crime is that a state crime is initiated and brought in a particular state (where the crime was committed) and a federal crime is initiated by the federal government and brought in one of the federal district courts across the country.

Can a particular action be both a federal crime and a state crime?

Yes, some types of conduct can violate both state and federal statutes. Moreover, you can be charged with the same conduct by the federal government and the state, and it does not constitute double jeopardy. However, there are some policies that an experienced federal criminal defense attorney is aware of that may help one of the sovereigns dismiss their matter.

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Who Prosecutes Federal Crimes?

Federal crimes are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in various districts throughout the United States. Some states have more than one district, such as New York, which has four (Western, Eastern, Northern and Southern).

If I go to jail for a federal crime, can I be released early on parole?

Unlike state parole, there is no federal parole. It was abolished in 1984 by statute. However, everyone who goes to prison on a federal sentence must do a term of supervised release following their prison sentence.

Can federal crimes be expunged?

No, unfortunately there is no expungement for federal convictions (with the exception of a minor drug offense)

Do I need to hire a federal attorney if I am charged with a federal offense?

Absolutely. Federal criminal defense attorneys such as the attorneys at LGR Law Group are experienced in defending those charged with federal offenses. Federal and state criminal defense are not the same. When charged with a federal offense, you should consult with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney like Lorraine Gauli-Rufo.

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I would like to thank the LGR group for their efforts in my case. I am extremely happy and thankful for the outcome . From the beginning to the final decision of my case, they were exceptionally attentive, knowledgeable, and committed to achieving the best outcome for me. LGR took the time to explain the…

P. B.

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B.

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N. F.

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F. V.

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G.

LGR Law went above and beyond all of the qualities one would look for while being represented I can’t begin to express how grateful my family and I were to have Loraine and her staff in our desperate time of need.

V. P.

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C.

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V. S.

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L. B.

Lorraine was an exceptional attorney who was punctual at every meeting. She called me ant text[ed] me from time to time, and she worked with the [AUSA] well. Lorraine made sure I knew when court was and how to get there. She also [met with me] on Sundays because I could only get a ride…

R. E. B.

Lorraine worked very hard and achieved a decision I could not have even dared hoped for….She truly cares about her clients and their families. She is a good person to have on your side.

J. D.

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M.

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D. D.

I had the distinct pleasure of dealing directly with Lorraine Gauli-Rufo a number of years ago, when she was defending my son. It was a very sad and worry-wrought time for all of my family, but especially my son, of course, and myself, because if you’re a parent, and specifically a mother, you’ll know the…

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O. F.

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Thank you, Lorraine, Hannah, Abi and the rest of the LGR team for getting me through this. I found Lorraine through google and from our very first call she made me feel comfortable. Very professionally along with her team guided me through every step. Thank you again for your support and service. Dan

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F. L.