Law enforcement investigations into allegations of federal or white-collar crime can be extremely aggressive. If you are targeted, it is common for agents to break down the door to your home, without warning, early in the morning to execute a search warrant. This tactic is designed to disorient and frighten you and your family. Federal law enforcement agencies have nearly unlimited resources to direct into criminal investigations, meaning that by the time you become aware that you or your business are under investigation, the process may already be at an advanced stage. Having a Washington, DC white-collar criminal defense attorney on your side as early as possible is vital to protecting your rights and your future.
White-collar offenses typically relate to business, commercial, and financial enterprises. If you are facing allegations of fraud, embezzlement, government procurement fraud, healthcare fraud, or public corruption and bribery, these are often referred to as white-collar crimes because professionals in these sectors are commonly targeted for investigation.
Given the complex nature of these offenses and the significant risks of conviction, it is crucial that you contact a DC white-collar criminal defense lawyer. A skilled lawyer will possess the expertise necessary to provide a strong defense against all offenses categorized as white-collar crimes, including:
White-collar cases are often document-heavy and involve intricate financial information, so having a defense attorney experienced in these types of cases is essential.
Numerous law enforcement agencies investigate potential white-collar crimes, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Labor (DOL), the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These agencies dedicate significant resources to their investigations.
Many alleged offenses in Washington, DC, especially serious felonies, can lead to charges in federal court. The federal court system differs from local DC Superior Court, so if you find yourself facing these charges, representation from a skilled DC federal criminal attorney who is admitted to practice in federal court is essential. In the District of Columbia, charges like assault, robbery, and DUI are typically prosecuted as local crimes in the DC Superior Court, governed by local statutes.
Regardless of the alleged crime, having an aggressive lawyer is vital if you are targeted by the federal government. We represent individuals accused in white-collar criminal cases, congressional investigations, federal criminal matters, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), and RICO cases. If you have been charged or are under investigation, please visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.
Case Process Investigations Common Federal Charges Steps to Take Before Hiring a Lawyer Federal Sentencing Guidelines Difference Between State and Federal CasesCase results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Each case is different, and past results do not guarantee or predict favorable or similar results in future cases.
Read MoreFederal laws and the rules of criminal procedure are often more complex than those at the state level. Federal prosecutors and law enforcement agents conduct thorough investigations. Those convicted of federal offenses face enhanced penalties. An experienced DC federal criminal lawyer who understands federal prosecutions and the workings of federal courts can help protect your rights and work toward achieving the justice you deserve.
When facing serious federal or white-collar charges, you may wonder who the best lawyer is for your situation. The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. You should seek a DC white-collar lawyer who is well-suited to your specific case, considering various factors. If you are facing federal charges, ensure that the lawyer or law firm you choose is admitted to practice in federal court, as some criminal defense attorneys may only operate at the state level.
It is crucial to hire a Washington, DC white-collar criminal defense attorney as soon as you suspect you are under investigation. An attorney can immediately act as a buffer between you and law enforcement agents and prosecutors. For example, if a search warrant is executed at your home, a lawyer will contact the lead agent conducting the search to assert your constitutional rights to remain silent and to have an attorney present. This prevents agents from interviewing you, which is often their goal during such surprise searches.
If you first learn of a criminal investigation through a subpoena ordering you to produce documents, it is important to contact our firm immediately. There are crucial issues to consider in determining how to respond to a subpoena, including whether to file a motion to quash the subpoena.