Federal Offenses

In contrast to state criminal cases, most federal cases begin with a federal agent contacting the defendant to conduct a voluntary interview. Unfortunately, either through fear or lack of knowledge, most defendants proceed to speak with the agent without consulting with an attorney. This is almost always a mistake.

In the United States a federal crime or federal offense is a crime that is either made illegal by U.S. Congress or a State crime that occurs on U.S. Federal property. Numerous federal agencies have been granted powers to investigate federal offenses, including but not limited to, the ATF, DEA, FAMS, USMS, FBI, ICE, IRS, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Secret Service, and USPS.

Federal Offenses (include but are not limited to):

  • Antitrust Violations
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Criminal Enterprises
  • Immigration Offenses
  • Computer and Internet Fraud
  • Credit Card Fraud
  • Extortion
  • Wire Fraud
  • Phone and Telemarketing Fraud
  • Bankruptcy Fraud
  • Healthcare Fraud
  • Environmental Law Violations
  • Insurance Fraud
  • Mail Fraud
  • Mortgage Fraud
  • Government Fraud
  • Tax Evasion
  • Bankruptcy Fraud
  • Financial Fraud
  • Securities Fraud
  • Insider Trading
  • Alien Smuggling
  • RICO
  • Perjury
  • False Statement
  • Drug Offenses
  • Bribery
  • Kickbacks
  • Counterfeiting
  • Public Corruption
  • Money Laundering
  • Embezzlement
  • Economic Espionage
  • Trade Secret Theft

Important Differences between Federal and State Cases:
Federal criminal law and procedure differ from those of the State. First, the U.S. Attorney (not the State’s Attorney) prosecutes federal crimes. These crimes are investigated by any of federal law enforcement agencies. Additionally, if convicted, a defendant will be sentenced pursuant to the federal sentencing guidelines and placed in custody of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons (not the state Department of Corrections).

If you or someone you love has been approached by a federal agent, call the Law Office of Warren A. Brown for a CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION at 410-685-4900 or take a moment to complete our confidential and secure FREE CONSULTATION intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.