Youngstown, OH Federal Crime Lawyer

Federal Criminal Defense Representation In & Around Mahoning County

A grand jury indictment returned in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio creates a universe of problems for the accused. These problems are distinct from those people face in the state criminal justice system. 

Federal criminal charges, laws, courts, procedures, sentencing, and prisons all differ significantly from those of state crimes. It is no longer a question of facing down a local prosecutor working with evidence obtained by a local police department or sheriff’s office. A federal law enforcement agency with national jurisdiction and vast resources will likely assemble the evidence against you. 

If you're facing federal charges, get the legal guidance you need. Contact a Youngstown federal crime lawyer now for a free consultation. Call us at (330) 862-8582 or reach out online to get started.

Types of Federal Crimes

Federal crimes cover a wide range of offenses, and each has its own specific set of penalties. Common types of federal crimes include:

• Drug Trafficking: Drug trafficking, especially if it involves transporting drugs across state lines or distributing them in large quantities, can result in significant penalties, including long prison sentences. Federal authorities, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), have the resources to conduct extensive investigations into drug trafficking operations. If you are charged with drug trafficking, work with a Youngstown federal crime lawyer to achieve a favorable outcome.
• White-Collar Crimes: White-collar crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and insider trading, are typically financial crimes involving deceit, theft, or the abuse of power for financial gain. Federal agencies such as the FBI or Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) often investigate these crimes, and the government typically seeks the maximum penalties in these cases. 
• Firearms and Weapons Offenses: Federal firearms charges can arise in various circumstances, such as the unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, trafficking firearms across state lines, or illegal possession of certain types of weapons. 
• Cyber Crimes: The internet has become a major target for federal law enforcement agencies, particularly in cases involving cybercrime. Crimes like hacking, identity theft, online fraud, and data breaches are increasingly being prosecuted under federal law. 
• Organized Crime: Charges related to organized crime or racketeering, such as those brought under the RICO Act (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), carry serious consequences. Federal prosecutors are known to pursue aggressive tactics in prosecuting organized crime cases, including wiretaps, surveillance, and cooperating witnesses. Our Youngstown federal crimes lawyer can help protect your rights and mount a strong defense against these allegations.

Federal Sentencing Process

The federal sentencing process follows a structured procedure that begins after a defendant is convicted, either through a guilty plea or a trial verdict. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines serve as a framework for sentencing, providing judges with a recommended range of penalties based on the offense and the defendant’s background. However, the guidelines are advisory, meaning that the judge has discretion to depart from the recommended range in certain cases.

Before sentencing, a Pre-Sentence Investigation Report (PSR) is prepared by a probation officer, detailing the facts of the case, the defendant’s criminal history, and other relevant information. This report plays a crucial role in determining the final sentence. The judge will consider the PSR, any arguments presented by the prosecution and defense, and the applicable sentencing guidelines before issuing the final sentence.

In some cases, the defendant’s lawyer may argue for a downward departure from the sentencing guidelines, requesting a reduced sentence based on factors such as cooperation with authorities, mitigating circumstances, or a lack of prior criminal history. Conversely, the prosecution may seek an upward departure, asking the judge to impose a harsher sentence based on aggravating factors.

The federal government often seeks to impose the maximum penalties, which is why having an experienced federal crime attorney in Youngstown by your side is critical. 

Potential Consequences and Penalties for Federal Crimes

The penalties for federal crimes vary significantly depending on the nature of the offense, the severity of the crime, and the defendant's criminal history. Common penalties for federal convictions include:

• Prison Sentences: Typically longer than state crimes, with mandatory minimum terms for certain offenses.
• Fines: Significant fines, especially for financial crimes, drug trafficking, and violent offenses.
• Probation: An alternative to prison for lower-level crimes, subject to strict supervision and conditions.
• Restitution: Compensation to victims for financial losses caused by the crime.
• Asset Forfeiture: Seizure of property or assets tied to illegal activity, such as real estate, vehicles, or bank accounts.

A federal conviction does not end with prison time or financial penalties. A conviction for a federal crime can have long-lasting effects on your personal life, career, and future opportunities. The collateral consequences of a federal conviction may include loss of voting rights, employment challenges as many employers conduct background checks, immigration issues for non-citizens and social stigma. 

Aggravating Factors Leading to Harsher Penalties

• Prior Criminal History: Repeat offenders may face more severe sentences.
• Use of Violence: Crimes involving violence (e.g., armed robbery) carry harsher penalties.
• Drug Quantity: Larger drug quantities in trafficking cases result in more severe sentences.
• Cooperation with Authorities: Cooperation may lead to reduced sentences.
• Hate Crimes: Offenses motivated by bias may incur enhanced penalties.
• Role in the Offense: Leading or organizing criminal activity can result in harsher sentences.

How a Federal Crime Defense Attorney From Our Firm Can Help

Facing federal charges can be overwhelming, but the right legal representation can make a significant difference. A Youngstown federal crime lawyer can help you navigate the federal justice system and provide the following services:

• Investigating the Case: Thorough investigation into all aspects of the case, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing law enforcement procedures.
• Challenging Evidence: Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence and seeking to have evidence excluded or suppressed if it was illegally obtained.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, negotiating a favorable plea deal with the prosecution can result in reduced charges or lighter penalties.
• Trial Defense: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will represent you in court, cross-examine witnesses, present a defense strategy, and fight to achieve a favorable verdict.
• Appeals: If you are convicted, your lawyer can help with post-conviction motions and appeals to challenge the verdict or sentencing.

Federal cases are complicated, and the penalties for a conviction are severe. If you are facing federal charges in Ohio, it is crucial to have experienced legal representation to protect your rights and your future. 

Work with a Proven Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Your expectations of your lawyer in federal cases should be different as well. To mount an effective defense, you must work with an attorney who understands the federal system and who has a track record of federal criminal defense success. 

With Law Office of Damian A. Billak on your side, you can benefit from Attorney Billak’s intensive experience and familiarity with federal prosecutions. He can be invaluable at every stage of the investigation and prosecution, whether before an indictment, immediately after an arrest or search, in pretrial motions, plea negotiations, or at trial. 

Discuss your case directly with our Youngstown, OH federal crimes attorney at Law Office of Damian A. Billak. Call (330) 862-8582 or reach us online to get started.