Have you been charged with a federal crime in San Diego, CA? Federal offenses are among the most serious crimes, and convictions often result in extremely harsh penalties. Now is the time to defend yourself, and the San Diego federal crimes lawyers at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers can help. Contact our San Diego office at (619) 357-4977.
Attorney Peter Blair has dedicated his legal career to defending the people of San Diego against serious criminal charges. He’s handled thousands of cases in state and federal court, helping his clients achieve the best possible results time and time again.
When your future is on the line, you need Peter Blair and his legal team in your corner. Our office is conveniently located in San Diego, California. Call today to learn about your legal rights and find out how we can help you fight.
How Our San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help If You’re Facing Federal Criminal Charges
You have the Constitutional right to an attorney when you’re charged with a crime. Don’t underestimate the importance of choosing the right criminal defense lawyer in San Diego for your case. Federal criminal matters, in particular, are challenging. You need an attorney who knows the federal criminal procedure, understands the unique complexities of federal cases, and has experience trying matters before federal courts.
At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we have more than a decade of experience behind us. We understand that an accusation isn’t a reflection of your character. It’s not who you are. And, you deserve every opportunity to prove that in a court of law. That’s where we can help.
As we defend you against a federal offense, we will:
- Conduct a thorough and exhaustive investigation into the criminal allegations
- Work closely with experts and specialists as we analyze and consider evidence
- Help you navigate conversations and interviews with federal agents, investigators, and prosecutors
- Challenge the validity of the government’s evidence and overall case
- Work to negotiate favorable terms for a plea or move forward and argue your case in federal court
We’re here to help you preserve your future. The government has to prove its case against you beyond a reasonable doubt – our job is to make that as difficult as possible.
What is a Federal Crime?
Federal crimes are offenses that violate Title 18 of the United States Code, which contains criminal laws set by the federal government.
You can also face federal criminal charges if:
- You’re accused of involvement in a crime that crosses state borders
- A federal investigative agency – like the FBI or DEA – was involved in uncovering the offense.
When the federal government is involved, it’s important to take prompt action and call a defense attorney.
How Are State and Federal Crimes Different?
When you’re accused of committing a federal offense, your case will proceed in the federal court system. This means your case will be subject to unique procedural rules, handled by highly skilled federal prosecutors, and tried before federal judges.
Federal crimes are typically considered to be the most serious and, as a result, are subject to extremely harsh penalties. If sentenced to time behind bars, offenders will find themselves in a federal penitentiary.
On the other hand, state crimes are investigated by the local police, county law enforcement, or state investigative agencies. If charged with a crime, cases proceed through the California state court system. California has its own set of rules and procedures that dictate the process.
State crimes can carry harsh penalties. Terms of imprisonment are carried out in local jails and state prisons. For many, especially first-time offenders with non-violent offenses, lesser penalties (like probation or house arrest) are sought.
In some instances, violations of federal law may also be violations of California state law. Other times, an activity may be illegal at the federal level but legal in the state.
Drug crimes are a good example of this. Generally speaking, possessing or selling a controlled substance violates both California state and federal law. However, California has legalized the use of medicinal and recreational marijuana. Despite that, possession of marijuana still remains a federal crime.
We Represent Clients in All Federal Matters in San Diego, CA
There are hundreds of crimes that can be classified as federal offenses. Federal agents for the FBI, ATF, DEA and other federal agencies can make arrests in the city of San Diego.
At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we’re here to defend you against any federal charge, including:
- Identity theft
- Arson
- Mail fraud
- Embezzlement
- Bribery
- Child abuse or exploitation
- Child pornography
- Witness intimidation
- Computer crimes
- Conspiracy
- Counterfeiting
- Drug trafficking
- Weapons charges, including illegal possession or sale of firearms
- Insurance fraud
- Health care fraud
- Money laundering
- Racketeering
- Wire fraud
- Murder
- Sexual abuse of a minor
- Sex trafficking
- Tax evasion
Whether you’ve been accused of a federal white-collar crime, a sex offense that violates federal law, or a serious federal drug crime, our San Diego federal crimes attorneys are here to defend you and protect your name. Contact us to begin your defense today.
What Are the Penalties If I’m Convicted of a Federal Crime in California?
Like state crimes, federal offenses are classified as misdemeanors or felonies. The federal sentencing guidelines – and the punishments that can be imposed if you’re convicted – depend in large part on the specific charge against you.
Classes of Misdemeanor Federal Charges
There are three classes of misdemeanor offenses at the federal level: A, B, and C.
- Class A Misdemeanors are punishable by between six months and one year in federal prison.
- Class B Misdemeanors are punishable by between 30 days and six months in federal prison.
- Class C Misdemeanors are punishable by between five days and 30 days in federal prison.
Penalties can be enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present.
Classes of Felony Federal Offenses
Federal felonies fall into one of five classes: A, B, C, D, or E. Class A is reserved for the most serious crimes, while Class E is a step above Class C Misdemeanors.
- Class E felonies are punishable by between one and five years in federal prison.
- Class D felonies are punishable by between five and ten years in federal prison.
- Class C felonies are punishable by between ten and 25 years in federal prison.
- Class B felonies are punishable by no less than 25 years in federal prison.
- Class A penalties carry life imprisonment or the death penalty.
In addition to imprisonment, individuals convicted on federal criminal charges – both misdemeanor and felony – can also face probation, harsh fines, and the loss of important rights and privileges.
Collateral Criminal Consequences of a Federal Criminal Conviction
When you have a federal conviction on your criminal record, that will certainly have an impact on your ability to live your life. That’s true, long after the crime and any court-ordered punishments are in the rear-view mirror.
Collateral consequences can include:
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Not qualifying for financial aid or loans
- Loss of professional licenses
- Loss of gun ownership rights
Non-citizens may also face grave immigration consequences if they are convicted of a federal offense. Deportation is a reality for many.
The only way to avoid criminal and collateral consequences of a conviction is by fighting back. A strong defense is your best and only option if you want to preserve your future. Our San Diego criminal defense attorneys are here to fight for you. Call us to discuss your federal crime defense strategy now.
How Can I Defend Myself Against Federal Criminal Charges?
Potential defenses that can be raised in federal criminal matters include:
- Violations of your Constitutional rights, such as illegal arrest, unlawful search and seizure, and violations of Miranda rights
- False allegations
- Tainted evidence
- Mistaken identity
- Unsubstantiated or weak evidence
- Affirmative defenses, including self-defense, entrapment, or duress
- Alibi
The federal government has the burden of proving that you are guilty of a federal crime beyond a reasonable doubt. This is an incredibly high standard. As your defense attorneys, it’s our job to present a strong defense and work to undermine the government’s case at every turn.
Contact Our Experienced San Diego Federal Crimes Lawyers Now
Federal criminal cases are complex. They’re challenging. And, they’re handled by federal prosecutors who know the federal criminal justice system inside and out. If you’re accused of a federal crime in San Diego, you need an attorney who can level the playing field for you.
At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we’ve been handling these tough cases for more than a decade. We know what you’re up against and have strategies to help you secure the best possible outcome in your case.
The time to begin defending yourself is now. Our San Diego federal crimes lawyers are standing by to provide you with the level of legal representation you deserve. Contact our law firm in San Diego, California, to discuss your federal criminal case with our respected attorneys. Your first consultation is free.