As noted, federal crimes generally involve a criminal activity that moves across state lines or is being perpetuated in more than one state. Although most federal crimes are defined as non-violent, many are associated with violence when those involved become desperate to conceal their misdeeds. Some federal crimes, like human trafficking, have violent components to begin with. Included under the umbrella of federal crimes are the following:

Bank and securities fraud; counterfeiting
Credit card fraud
Embezzlement
Extortion, bribery, illegal gambling
Firearms and weapons (use, sale, distribution of guns and other deadly weapons)
Human trafficking (both immigration crimes and sex trafficking)
Internet fraud (phishing crimes, hacking, pornography distribution)
Kidnapping
Loan sharking (predatory lending)
Money laundering
Narcotics offenses (selling, distribution, illegal import or transport)
Pornography offenses (production, possession, distribution of child pornography)
Racketeering (rico violations, organized crime)

The penalties for federal crimes are harsh and often have life-altering consequences.

When you are on trial for a federal crime, the stakes are high. In addition to having to pay substantial fines and serve a lengthy prison sentence, if convicted, you will end up with a permanent criminal record. That criminal record may plague you for many years after your release — making it difficult for you to obtain financial aid, government benefits or loans, or to find employment or a place to live. Having a conviction for a federal crime on your record may also interfere with your ability to obtain certain licenses, purchase a gun, or to foster or adopt a child. So many potentially dire consequences make it especially necessary for you to seek out a criminal defense team with the knowledge and aptitude to defend you vigorously. 

As previously noted, it is essential to begin to defend against federal charges quickly and forcefully. At blischak law firm, our sharp professionals will begin defending you even before your trial since we know how important it is to mount an effective pre-trial defense. We are also aware that federal charges tend to overlap, often creating complications. To prevent your having to serve severe punishments, including large financial fines and harsh prison sentences, we will work diligently to come up with a strategy designed to protect you, your family, your finances, and your freedom. Possible defenses against federal crime charges include:

Acting under duress, in fear of harm to you or others if you didn’t comply
False accusation or misidentification
Entrapment by law enforcement
Vindictive prosecution, meaning you were targeted for reasons unrelated to this crime
Mitigating circumstances, meaning that you acted out of necessity
Incapacity, intoxication, or insanity
Flawed evidence
Mistakes made in search and seizure (e.G. Lack of warrants)
Mistakes made in arrest procedure (e.G. Not reading you your miranda rights)
Mistreatment while in federal custody (threats, intimidation, physical abuse)

It is also possible that our adept attorneys may be able to prove that you acted innocently, without malicious intent, unaware of the illegality of your actions.