Federal prosecutors possess substantial resources to investigate and prosecute those they target. If you find yourself under scrutiny by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), or Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), it is crucial not to ignore the situation.
You might never have anticipated being questioned by federal agents or a grand jury. Nevertheless, government agencies often cast a broad net to identify individuals they suspect of illegal activities. If you receive a target letter or subpoena or are concerned that the government is examining your activities, it is essential to consult a Kansas federal criminal defense lawyer to explore your options. Call today to work with a skilled defense attorney.
Difference Between State and Federal Crimes
Crimes prosecuted in Kansas are defined by the Kansas Statutes Annotated, enacted by the state legislature. In contrast, federal criminal laws are established by the U.S. Congress.
Federal crimes typically involve national interests, especially where federal funds are at stake. Examples include bank robbery, where deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), counterfeiting, and credit card fraud. Other federal offenses include domestic terrorism, identity theft, mail and wire fraud, sex trafficking, and drug trafficking, particularly when illegal substances are smuggled into the U.S. or transported across state lines.
Some federal crimes are more nuanced and might not be immediately apparent. For instance, under The Lacey Act, hunting or fishing out of season in another state and transporting the catch back to Kansas can constitute a federal crime. Similarly, selling counterfeit designer handbags online is also a federal offense. Consulting with a seasoned federal criminal defense lawyer in Kansas could provide clarity on federal charges.
The Importance of Counsel When Facing Federal Charges
No one is exempt from a government investigation. For example, physicians in clinics that bill Medicaid have faced healthcare fraud charges due to improper billing by the clinic owner. Likewise, a business owner might be charged if a disgruntled employee files a qui tam whistleblower claim, regardless of its validity.
If you suspect you are a target of a government investigation in Kansas, promptly contacting a knowledgeable federal criminal defense attorney is vital. Delaying until an arrest is made can result in a loss of valuable time when facing severe penalties. Although each case is unique, potential penalties for federal crimes may include:
- A sentence to federal prison
- Seizure of most or all personal assets
- Significant fines and costs for prosecution
- Loss of a professional license for healthcare providers accused of Medicare or Medicaid fraud
- A felony record that impacts job and housing choices
- Damage to one’s reputation in the community
Federal prosecutors may issue a target letter to individuals under investigation, indicating they are suspected of criminal activity.
Indictments, Arrests, and Arraignments
Arrests occur following a federal grand jury indictment or a U.S. magistrate’s issuance of an arrest warrant based on evidence and testimony gathered by investigative agencies like the FBI. Within 72 hours of arrest, a suspect will have a first appearance before a judge, who will read the charges and rights and set a bond if deemed appropriate.
An arraignment will follow, during which a plea of not guilty will be entered. The defendant’s Kansas federal criminal attorney may negotiate a plea deal with the federal prosecutor, which could involve agreeing to a sentence or seeking dismissal of charges. If no plea agreement is reached, the pre-trial process will proceed to discovery, which involves producing and analyzing numerous documents.
Call a Kansas Federal Criminal Defense Attorney for Guidance
The federal criminal court system is a well-resourced operation featuring skilled investigative agencies and diligent U.S. Attorneys who prosecute a wide range of federal crimes. If you receive a target letter, grand jury subpoena, or indictment, it is crucial to act swiftly.
Contact Price Benowitz today for a free case evaluation with an experienced Kansas federal criminal defense lawyer. Our team understands federal law and the potential impact of federal prosecutions on your life. Do not wait—reach out to ensure your rights are protected and to discuss your case with our dedicated attorneys.
