This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founder, Daniel Perlman who has years of legal experience as a Federal Crimes attorney. Our last modified date shows when this page was last updated & reviewed.
A federal criminal defense attorney helps people accused of violating federal law by explaining their charges, reviewing the evidence, and protecting the person’s rights. You do not have to wait until you are charged to call a lawyer. If federal agents are asking questions about you or your actions, getting legal help early may be useful.
A federal criminal defense lawyer helps a client during an investigation and after charges are filed. A lawyer’s job is to protect their client’s rights and build a defense.
A lawyer may:
Having a lawyer can make it easier to understand each step and make informed choices about your case.
Federal and state cases are handled in different court systems. Federal courts hear criminal cases that involve violations of federal law.
Federal cases are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys or Assistant U.S. Attorneys rather than local district attorneys. Agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, and ATF may investigate these cases.
Federal cases also follow the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. These rules cover many parts of a case, including court hearings and trials.
A lawyer who has handled federal cases will know how these rules work and how they may affect a defense.
Federal criminal lawyers can handle many types of charges. These may include fraud, drug crimes, money laundering, tax crimes, cybercrimes, conspiracy, and some weapons charges.
Crimes may become federal cases for several reasons. For example, the conduct may cross state lines or happen on federal property. A federal agency or program may also be involved.
A defense attorney can determine which federal statutes apply and identify possible defenses based on the facts.
You do not need to wait for an arrest to get legal help. Federal investigations can begin long before charges are filed.
Consider speaking with an attorney if federal agents want to interview you. Legal help may also be important if agents search your home or business or if they tell you that you are part of an investigation.
You may also receive a grand jury subpoena requiring you to testify or produce records.
A lawyer can explain what the government is asking you to do and speak with federal agents and prosecutors for you.
A federal criminal case can include several stages. Depending on the circumstances, the process may involve an arrest or summons, an initial court appearance, a detention hearing, an indictment, arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, plea negotiations, and trial.
If a defendant is convicted or pleads guilty, the case moves to sentencing. The court may consider federal sentencing laws and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines when deciding the sentence.
The government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. A defense attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and arguments throughout the case.
If you are under investigation or facing federal charges, legal help may be important. Federal cases can involve strict rules and serious penalties.
Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers can review your case, explain your options, and help protect your rights. Contact our criminal defense lawyers today to discuss your case and learn about your legal options in Los Angeles, CA. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers
1601 Vine St Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA 90028
(747) 373-0477
Available 24/7
Daniel R. Perlman, the founding attorney at Perlman Defense Federal Criminal Lawyers, leverages his extensive background as a former prosecutor to provide superior defense strategies for clients across federal courtrooms. Earning his Juris Doctor from the Catholic University of America's Columbus School of Law, he first honed his legal skills with the Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office.
This diverse experience enables him to advocate effectively, understanding prosecution tactics intimately, which he expertly counters in defense of his clients. With a profound commitment to justice, Daniel leads his team in tackling complex federal cases, from white-collar crimes to violent offenses, ensuring the highest level of defense through every phase of the criminal process.
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