Federal Criminal Defense
Tama Beth Kudman is an experienced, knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney with offices in West Palm Beach, Florida, New York City and New Jersey. She has extensive experience defending individuals and corporations under investigation and/or prosecution for federal crimes.
Federal cases involve different laws, potential sentences and procedures than those brought in state court. If you have been accused of (or are being investigated for) committing a federal crime, it is critical to get representation from a criminal defense attorney experienced in defending clients in federal court.
What Constitutes A Federal Offense?
A federal offense is any crime defined in federal legislation and are either misdemeanors or felonies. A misdemeanor is a crime that results in a sentence of up to one year, while a felony results in a minimum sentence of one year and up to life in prison and the possibility of a death sentence for the most egregious crimes. Penalties for federal offenses are set by the U.S. Congress.
Who Prosecutes Federal Offenses?
Federal offenses are prosecuted by U.S. attorneys appointed by the attorney general. Cases are held in federal district courts before federal trial judges. Federal prosecutions typically stem from investigations carried out by federal agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
When criminal acts are both state and federal offenses, prosecutors from both levels of government work together to make a decision on whether to try the case in state or federal court.
Examples of federal offenses
- Arson
- Bank fraud
- Bank robbery
- Bribery
- Child pornography
- Civil rights violations
- Counterfeiting
- Credit card fraud
- Crimes against children
- Currency schemes
- Drug crimes
- Embezzlement
- Extortion
- Forgery
- Gun crimes
- Health care/Medicare fraud
- Homicide
- Import/export crimes
- Insider trading
- Insurance fraud
- Internet crimes
- Interstate drug trafficking
- Interstate transport of stolen goods
- Investment fraud
- Kidnapping
- Larceny/theft
- Mail fraud
- Money laundering
- Racketeering
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO)
- Securities fraud
- Sex crimes
- Tax evasion/fraud
- Theft
Drug-Related Federal Offenses
The number of prisoners convicted of drug offenses who are serving sentences in federal facilities has exploded over the last 30 years, typically accounting for more 50% of the prison population. Penalties for a federal drug offense conviction are severe. It is therefore extremely important that you hire a lawyer with extensive experience in federal court and specific experience with federal drug cases like attorney Kudman.
Potential Sentences Of Federal Crimes
In federal trials, U.S. district court judges have the sole discretion to impose fines and sentences. Penalties are determined by examining the defendant’s criminal history, the United States Federal Sentencing Guidelines and specific details concerning the offense. The accused can influence the sentencing by cooperating with the government and plea bargaining. Sentencing may include:
- Prison sentences
- Fines and/or restitution
- Home confinement
- Community service
- Supervised release
Parole is not a part of the federal justice system.
Pre-Indictment Law Enforcement Interviews
A common practice among federal law enforcement agencies is to contact suspects before charges are filed in an effort to get the suspect to to provide incriminating information against themselves or confess. In cases involving multiple parties, they will also offer deals to reduce penalties if the suspect is willing to provide incriminating evidence against other individuals.
Even if you have done nothing wrong, you should NEVER talk to anyone until you have spoken to a lawyer! Although they may offer the possibility of leniency in charges or other promises, law enforcement agents are not allowed to make deals on behalf of the U.S. attorney’s office. However, law enforcement agents can legally give you misleading information to coerce you into a confession! Before you say anything to law enforcement, demand to speak to your lawyer first!
The Importance Of Seeking Experienced Legal Help
Federal criminal investigations are complex and carry severe penalties. If you have been charged with a federal crime, you need an experienced in federal criminal defense lawyer on your side. Tama Beth Kudman has been representing individuals and corporations accused of committing federal crimes for over 25 years, throughout the country. Ms. Kudman brings this experience and knowledge to every federal criminal case that she defends.
If You Were Charged With A Federal Crime Or Are Under Investigation, Contact Tama Beth Kudman, P.A.
To set up a consultation with an experienced, knowledgeable and aggressive federal criminal defense attorney, call 561-472-0811 or fill out the online contact form. Tama Beth Kudman, P.A., has offices in West Palm Beach, Florida, New York City and New Jersey.