Ocala Federal Crime Attorneys
In Florida, most crimes fall under the state laws. However, certain offenses can be considered federal crimes. Federal offenses are handled by federal law enforcement agencies. Federal charges are much more serious than charges for state crimes. Therefore, you need a strong defense to protect yourself and get the best possible outcome. Contact an aggressive Ocala federal crimes attorney who can fight for your rights.
What is a Federal Crime?
A federal crime occurs when someone:
- Breaks a federal law.
- Commits a crime across state lines.
- Commits on a U.S. military base, federal waters, or on federal property under U.S. jurisdiction.
Because federal crimes violate federal law, these cases are presented in federal court. In many cases, these crimes are much more serious than violations of local and state laws. Overall, the difference between federal and state crimes is relatively slim, solely depending on which legislation has created the laws. Some criminal charges are reviewed at local, state, or federal levels.
Here are some examples of federal crimes:
- Terrorism
- Counterintelligence crimes
- Cybercrime
- Corruption of the public
- Arson
- Child pornography
- Sexual abuse
- Human trafficking
- Kidnapping
- Violation of civil rights
- Organized criminal activity
- Drug crimes
- Violent crimes, like murder or manslaughter
- Immigration crimes
- Threats against the government
Even non-violent financial crimes can be charged at the federal level. They include the following:
- Fraud
- Forgery
- Counterfeiting
- Embezzlement
- Tax offenses
- Mail fraud
- Wire fraud
- Money laundering
A federal crime is a serious violation and will not be handled by a local organization (although a local police department may help with the investigation). Instead, it will handled by one of these federal agencies:
- U.S. Secret Service
- U.S. Postal Inspection Service
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Fish and Wildlife Service
- Health and Human Services
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Internal Revenue Service
- U.S. Marshals Service
Penalties for Federal Crimes in Florida
Here are the penalties for federal crimes in Florida based on the charge:
- Class C misdemeanor: 5-30 days in prison
- Class B misdemeanor: 30 days to 6 months in prison
- Class A misdemeanor: 6 months to 1 year in prison
- Class E felony: 1-5 years in prison
- Class D felony: 5-10 years in prison
- Class C felony: 10-25 years in prison
- Class B felony: 25 or more years in prison
- Class A felony: Life in prison
Contact an Ocala Federal Crimes Attorney Today
Federal crimes are more serious than federal crimes. They can result in decades in prison as well as hefty fines. As these are felony crimes, they can affect your life in many ways for a long time.
There’s a lot at stake. Get criminal defense from the attorneys at Meldon Law. We will work hard to get you the best outcome possible. To speak with one of our Ocala federal crimes attorneys, call our office at (800) 373-3000.
