Seek Protection By Hiring a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Morgantown, WV Trusts
When someone commits a crime, they may have done so intentionally or purely by accident. Sometimes, a person is simply at the wrong place at the wrong time and may go down along with those around them. Sadly, the federal judiciary system may occasionally punish the wrong person or assign a harsher sentence than needed. Crime allegations at the federal level should always be taken seriously. Those who are at risk for a severe punishment due to being accused of a federal crime may want to meet with a federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to help protect their rights.
Here in the article below, we have answered a few questions about federal crimes. A qualified Morgantown WV attorney can help answer any other inquiries or concerns you may have.
What are examples of federal crimes?
Federal crimes are certain actions that have been deemed illegal by federal legislation. There are around two hundred crimes that are listed as federal crimes in the United States. Just a few examples of violations that are considered such are listed as follows:
- Terrorism
- Cybercrime
- Violations of civil rights
- Counterintelligence crime
- Public corruption
- Organized crime
- White-collar crime
- Drug offenses
- Jewelry, art, cargo and gem thievery
- Crimes of a violent nature against children
- Rape, murder or kidnapping
- Assassinating the U. S. President or Vice President
- Immigration offenses
- Bank robbery
How are federal crimes prosecuted?
Crimes that are illegal at the state and federal level can be prosecuted under either category. How this decision is made as to whether the criminal faces state or federal punishments, can depend on several factors. In general, the type of crimes that are prosecuted in the federal court system include:
- Drug trafficking
- Large-scale fraud
- Organized crime
- Fraud against the United States
- Crimes against federal officials
What crimes may be handled in the state court system?
The crimes most commonly handled in the state court system are situations where another person was harmed. This can include rape, assault, murder or crimes related to property. Overall, the majority of cases that are illegal at both the state and federal level end up being prosecuted at the state level. But, there are specific crimes that must go through federal court:
- Federal tax evasion
- Treason
- Espionage
- Customs offenses
What are the common punishments for federal crimes?
The punishment for a federal crime can vary widely, depending on the type, severity of the crime having been committed, and whether the defendant has a criminal history. A judge will take into consideration all the evidence brought forward during the trial. It is estimated that over 90% of federal crimes do not go to trial and instead the defendant pleads guilty and accepts a plea bargain.
What does a plea bargain mean?
A plea bargain is a compromise agreed upon between the person who committed the crime and the government. In most cases, a plea bargain entails a bit of leniency, a reduced charge, or shortened jail sentence.
To find out how a criminal defense attorney Morgantown, WV clients turn to can help you with your case, contact Adams Legal Group, PLLC. to set up a free consultation today.
