Have you been accused of a federal crime in Frederick, Maryland? Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can help when you call (301) 381-1993. We offer a free consultation with a Frederick federal crimes lawyer. An attorney can explain your options and help you understand what comes next in the federal process.
Federal investigations and prosecutions move quickly, and the stakes are high. With severe penalties on the line, having experienced legal guidance is essential. A knowledgeable attorney can assess the evidence against you, protect your rights, and develop a strategic approach tailored to your case. Contact us today!
Why Choose Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of a Federal Crime in Frederick?
When you’re facing federal charges, having a proven legal team behind you matters. At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, our firm draws on experience, seasoned judgment, and a strong commitment to protecting our clients’ rights.
Here’s why clients in Frederick, MD, choose us:
- We have more than 125 years of combined legal experience, offering clients the benefit of long-standing legal insight.
- Our team includes Andrew Alpert, the only Board-Certified DUI Defense Attorney in Maryland.
- We maintain a deep understanding of both state and federal criminal procedures, enabling us to navigate complex federal prosecutions effectively.
- Our attorneys are known for a client-focused approach grounded in thorough preparation and advocacy.
When your future is on the line, you need a legal team with the knowledge and experience to stand up to federal prosecutors. Call today to schedule a free consultation with a Frederick criminal defense attorney.
What Are Federal Crimes in Maryland?
Federal crimes in Maryland are criminal offenses that violate U.S. federal law rather than state statutes. These cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and investigated by federal agencies, including the FBI, DEA, ATF, IRS, and Homeland Security.
Common examples of federal crimes include:
- Drug trafficking and distribution involving large quantities or interstate operations
- Federal fraud offenses, such as wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, and identity theft
- Firearms violations, including illegal possession, trafficking, or offenses involving federal gun laws
- Cybercrimes, such as hacking, large-scale data breaches, and online financial crimes
- White-collar crimes, including embezzlement, securities violations, and tax crimes
- Immigration-related offenses, such as document fraud or unlawful re-entry
- Crimes on federal property, such as military bases, national parks, and federal buildings
Federal charges in Maryland are serious. These cases often come with tougher penalties, mandatory minimum sentences, and complicated legal rules. You’ll likely be up against a detailed investigation backed by powerful government resources.
What Happens During a Federal Criminal Case?
If you’re facing federal charges, it helps to know what to expect at each stage of the process. Federal cases tend to move faster and involve stricter rules than state-level proceedings.
Here’s a general outline of how federal criminal cases typically unfold:
- Investigation: Most federal cases begin with a lengthy investigation by agencies like the FBI, DEA, or IRS. You may not even know you’re under investigation until you’re contacted or charged.
- Charging: Once investigators believe they have enough evidence, prosecutors may present the case to a grand jury, which can issue an indictment (formal charge).
- Initial appearance and bail hearing: You’ll be brought before a federal judge to hear the charges. The judge will decide whether to release you or hold you in custody.
- Pretrial Proceedings: Your attorney can challenge the charges, file motions to suppress evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors.
- Trial or plea agreement: Many federal cases end with a plea deal. But if your case goes to trial, a jury will decide whether the government proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If you’re found guilty or take a plea, the judge will sentence you using the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Understanding this process is important—it helps you make smart decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
What Are the Penalties for Federal Crimes in Frederick, Maryland?
Penalties for federal crimes in Frederick, Maryland, are governed by federal statutes and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines give judges a framework based on the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and any aggravating or mitigating factors.
Common penalties for federal convictions include:
- Long prison sentences, often measured in years or decades, depending on the offense
- Mandatory minimums, especially in drug trafficking, firearm, and certain fraud cases
- Heavy fines, which can reach tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars
- Restitution, requiring reimbursement to victims or government entities
- Asset forfeiture, including cash, property, or vehicles tied to the alleged crime
- Supervised release, which imposes strict conditions after incarceration
Federal cases are known for their harsh sentencing rules, limited opportunities for early release, and high stakes that can significantly impact a person’s future long after the case concludes.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of a Federal Crime?
Federal charges are serious, but several legal defenses may help reduce or challenge the accusations against you. When examined carefully, the facts, evidence, and investigative methods used by federal agents may reveal weaknesses in the government’s case.
Some of the most common defenses that may apply in a federal criminal case include:
- Unlawful search or seizure: If law enforcement gathered evidence without a warrant or went beyond the limits of a valid search, that evidence might be thrown out.
- Violations of constitutional rights during questioning or investigation: If agents failed to read you your rights, coerced a confession, or violated due process, anything they obtained could be inadmissible.
- Lack of intent or knowledge: Many federal crimes require that you acted “knowingly” or “willfully.” If you didn’t mean to commit the crime, the charges may not hold.
- Insufficient evidence to prove every element of the offense: Prosecutors must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If they can’t, your case could be dismissed or result in an acquittal.
- Entrapment by federal agents: If the government pressured or tricked you into committing a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, you may have a defense.
- Mistaken identity or false allegations: If you were wrongly identified or accused, raising doubt about who actually committed the crime could lead to an acquittal.
The best way to understand which defenses may apply in your situation is to discuss the details of your case with your attorney as soon as possible.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of a Federal Crime
A good criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you through the federal court process. Federal cases are complicated, and having the right lawyer can make a big difference in how your case turns out.
Some of the key ways a criminal defense attorney may assist include:
- Evaluating the evidence gathered by federal agencies: Your attorney will review all the government’s evidence, looking for weaknesses, gaps, or information that supports your defense.
- Identifying constitutional violations or improper investigative tactics: If your rights were violated—such as through an unlawful arrest or interrogation—your lawyer may seek to suppress any resulting evidence.
- Challenging unlawful searches, seizures, or statements: Evidence obtained without a valid warrant or through improper questioning can often be excluded from trial.
- Developing a strategic defense based on the facts and applicable federal law:
Your lawyer will assess the criminal charges, examine the facts, and build a defense tailored to the specific allegations against you. - Negotiating with federal prosecutors when appropriate: Many federal cases are resolved through plea deals. A knowledgeable attorney can negotiate to reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Preparing your case for trial and advocating on your behalf in court: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will handle everything from jury selection to presenting evidence and cross-examining witnesses.
The most effective way to understand your options and build a strong defense is to speak directly with an experienced attorney who can review your situation and explain the next steps.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Federal Crimes Defense Lawyer
If you are under federal investigation or have already been charged with a crime in Frederick, Maryland, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys understands the high stakes involved and the pressure that comes with facing federal prosecutors and complex sentencing rules.
Contact us today for a free case review. A skilled Frederick federal crimes lawyer can go over the charges, explain your options, and help you take the next steps to protect your rights and future.
