Being charged with a crime is scary enough, but being charged with a federal offense is even more intimidating. Federal criminal cases can be extremely difficult to defend because the agencies that prosecute these crimes are large and have plenty of resources. Plus, the penalties for federal crimes are usually more severe than penalties for similar crimes at the state level.
Many federal crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, so you could find yourself serving extensive jail time if convicted. If you are being investigated or have been charged with a federal crime, contact our criminal defense attorneys in Oklahoma City today. We will go to work for you right away and help protect your legal rights. Call us at (405) 759-5529 for a free case review.
Why Choose Us?
Federal prosecutors and investigative agencies are known for being aggressive and relentlessly pursuing convictions in criminal cases. The process can be overwhelming for most defendants, so you need an experienced attorney on your side who is just as aggressive as the prosecution.
With over 20 years of experience, the founding attorney at Josh Lee & Associates has dedicated his practice to helping the accused navigate through the criminal justice system. The stakes are even higher in federal cases, so you want an attorney on your side who knows how to win. Contact our office today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you.
Common Federal Offenses
You might be wondering what the difference is between a state crime and a federal crime. Sometimes, the same offense may be punishable under both state and federal law. Federal law always supersedes state law; however, for federal charges to be pursued there generally must be some federal interest.
For instance, the crime may have occurred across multiple states, the crime may go against the U.S. Constitution, or there could be some other element that makes federal charges proper. Some common types of federal crimes include the following:
- Drug trafficking
- White collar crimes
- Sex trafficking
- Immigration offenses
- Weapons charges
- Kidnapping
- Identity theft
- Counterfeiting currency
If you have been charged with a federal crime, contact the office of Josh Lee & Associates today. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and get you the outcome you desire.
Drug Trafficking
Federal drug trafficking charges involve the distribution, manufacturing, or transportation of controlled substances. Under 21 U.S.C. § 841, penalties vary based on drug type and quantity, with sentences ranging from five years to life in prison. Convictions may also include asset forfeiture, substantial fines, and mandatory minimum sentences.
Drug trafficking cases often involve wiretaps, surveillance, and confidential informants. Prosecutors must prove intent to distribute, which may hinge on packaging materials, cash transactions, or large quantities of drugs.
White Collar Crimes
White collar crimes include fraud, embezzlement, and insider trading, often prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 for wire fraud and 18 U.S.C. § 1956 for money laundering. Penalties depend on financial losses and victim impact, with sentences ranging from fines to 30 years in federal prison. Convictions may also require restitution to compensate victims.
Sex Trafficking
Sex trafficking involves coercing or transporting individuals for commercial sex acts and is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1591. Convictions can result in a minimum of 10 years to life in federal prison. Additional penalties include asset forfeiture and registration as a sex offender.
These cases often involve undercover operations and victim testimony. Prosecutors must prove coercion, force, or fraud was used to facilitate trafficking.
Immigration Offenses
Federal immigration crimes include unlawful entry, visa fraud, and human smuggling, prosecuted under 8 U.S.C. § 1324. Convictions can result in fines, deportation, or prison sentences ranging from months to decades.
Repeat offenses or aggravated factors, such as smuggling minors, carry harsher penalties. Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) investigate immigration-related offenses. Defendants may challenge the legality of their arrest, argue they were unaware of fraudulent documents, or present humanitarian defenses.
Weapons Charges
Federal weapons offenses include illegal possession, trafficking, and firearm use during violent crimes, prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 922. Sentences vary but often include mandatory minimums, with penalties ranging from five years to life in prison. Convicted felons, undocumented individuals, and those with restraining orders face additional firearm restrictions. Weapons charges frequently arise in connection with other offenses, such as drug trafficking or violent crimes.
Kidnapping
Federal kidnapping laws under 18 U.S.C. § 1201 apply when a victim is transported across state lines or a federal officer is involved. Convictions carry up to life in prison, with potential death penalties in extreme cases. Sentencing enhancements apply if the victim is harmed or held for ransom.
Identity Theft
Identity theft involves using another person’s personal information for fraudulent purposes, prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 1028. Convictions can result in fines and up to 30 years in federal prison, depending on the severity of the fraud. Additional penalties apply if identity theft is linked to terrorism or financial crimes.
Counterfeiting Currency
Producing or distributing counterfeit money is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 471. Convictions carry up to 15 years in prison, along with significant fines. Charges may apply to those manufacturing counterfeit bills, distributing fake currency, or possessing materials used for counterfeiting. Federal investigators analyze ink, paper, and printing techniques to detect counterfeit operations.
Potential Punishments For Federal Crimes
Punishments associated with federal crimes are often harsher than the punishment associated with similar state crimes. The punishment for conviction of a federal crime can include hefty fines, restitution payments, and significant jail time. In fact, many federal crimes carry a mandatory minimum jail sentence (Federal Sentencing Guidelines – Sentencing Table).
In 2023, the average sentence length for a defendant subject to the mandatory minimum penalty was 151 months (United States Sentencing Commission Quick Facts). Due to the potential for extensive prison sentences, it is imperative that you have a defense attorney on your side who knows how to handle federal criminal cases.
Defense Strategies for Federal Crimes
A strong defense is critical when facing federal charges, as the government aggressively prosecutes these cases with harsh penalties. The right legal strategy can protect your freedom. Common defense strategies include:
- Lack of criminal intent
- Illegal search and seizure
- Entrapment
- Insufficient evidence
- Mistaken Identity
Speak To An Oklahoma City Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Federal crimes are serious business, and the repercussions of a conviction can stick with you for a lifetime. Don’t gamble with your freedom. Instead, contact the office of Josh Lee & Associates today. Put our 20+ years of criminal defense experience to work for you.
Our federal crimes lawyers in Oklahoma City will work diligently to put together a winning strategy that challenges the prosecution’s case and seeks to avoid a conviction. Contact us today for a free consultation and thorough case analysis.
