Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys in Cleveland
Facing a federal charge can feel overwhelming and intimidating. But having the right defense attorney by your side can truly make a difference in your case. The criminal defense attorneys at Yelsky & Lonardo, LLC in Cleveland, Ohio, have a long history of success representing clients in all types of federal criminal charges. We understand federal law and can help you successfully get through a case involving a federal offense.
If you’re facing a federal investigation in Cuyahoga County or surrounding areas, contact us for help. With a wealth of experience in federal court in the Northern District of Ohio, you can feel more confident in your case when you work with one of our federal criminal defense attorneys.
What Is The Difference Between Federal And State Crimes?
The main difference between a federal and a state crime is where the court proceedings occur. A few factors that can make a crime a federal offense include the location (i.e. if the criminal activity occurred in multiple states or on federal property) and if a specific federal law was violated. A few common examples of federal crimes include IRS violations, drug trafficking and immigration crimes. Copyright infractions and counterfeiting also fall under federal law in most cases.
Overview Of Federal Crimes
Federal crimes are offenses that violate U.S. federal laws, prosecuted in federal courts under federal agency authority. Unlike state crimes, federal offenses involve federal interests, cross state lines or occur on federal property. These cases typically carry more severe penalties and are prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys with access to extensive investigative resources from agencies like the FBI, DEA and IRS.
Common Federal Crimes
Our attorneys regularly defend clients against various federal charges. Understanding these offenses helps us develop effective defense strategies tailored to each case.
- Drug trafficking: Cases involving controlled substances crossing state or international borders
- White collar crimes: Including mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud and money laundering
- Health care fraud: Medicare fraud, insurance fraud and pharmaceutical fraud
- Tax offenses: Tax evasion and willful failure to file
- Weapons charges: Illegal possession, trafficking and use in other crimes
- Computer crimes: Hacking, identity theft and cyberstalking
We remain current with federal laws and precedents to provide the most effective representation for clients facing federal charges in Ohio.
The Federal Criminal Investigation Process In Ohio
Federal investigations follow a structured process that differs from state procedures:
- Investigation: Federal agencies gather evidence through surveillance, interviews and search warrants, often for months before targets become aware.
- Grand jury: Federal cases typically require grand jury indictment, where prosecutors present evidence in secret proceedings.
- Initial appearance: Defendants appear before a magistrate judge for notification of charges and determination of pretrial release.
- Pretrial phase: Defense reviews evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Resolution: Cases resolve through plea agreements or proceed to trial before a federal judge and jury.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentences follow Federal Sentencing Guidelines based on offense characteristics and criminal history.
Having counsel who understands this process is essential to developing an effective defense strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about federal criminal cases. For information specific to your situation, please schedule a consultation.
How are federal crimes prosecuted differently from state crimes?
Federal crimes are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys with federal agency support, following different procedural rules and sentencing guidelines. Federal cases typically involve more resources and can result in longer prison terms served in federal facilities.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for a federal crime?
Avoid speaking to investigators without legal representation. Contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Preserve potential evidence but never alter or destroy documents. Your attorney can communicate with investigators and protect your rights throughout the process.
Can federal charges be reduced or dismissed?
Federal charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed through pretrial motions challenging evidence, negotiations with prosecutors or participation in diversion programs. However, federal prosecutors typically build substantial cases before filing charges, making early and aggressive defense representation essential.
How Can Yelsky & Lonardo Help Me In A Federal Criminal Case?
If you are charged with a federal crime, it’s important to work with a criminal defense attorney who has specific experience in federal court. Our attorneys have spent years advocating for clients in both state and federal cases. We have a deep understanding of how these cases work and how to approach them as well as federal sentencing guidelines and federal investigations. We’ll make sure all your rights are protected and use our decades of experience to help build a successful case. Our reputation and well-established history in Ohio can also help in these situations.
Consult With Our Lawyers About Your Federal Investigation or Charges
Contact our Cleveland law firm today to speak with one of our experienced federal criminal defense attorneys. Call 216-435-0009 or use our online contact form to set up a free initial consultation.