Back to Practice Area: Criminal Defense

Federal Crimes

Facing a federal criminal investigation or charge means you’re up against more than local law enforcement—you’re facing the vast resources and power of the federal government. The stakes are higher, and the consequences can be life-altering. A conviction could lead to significant prison time, hefty fines, and a permanent impact on your personal and professional life.

At Hacker Murphy, our attorneys understand the complexities of federal cases and are equipped to defend your rights at every stage. We bring the same level of focus and intensity to your defense as federal prosecutors bring to their cases.

What Are Federal Crimes?

Federal crimes encompass a wide range of offenses investigated by agencies such as:

  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
  • Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Federal agencies possess extensive investigative resources, including surveillance, wiretaps, financial data access, and electronic evidence gathering. These tools enable deep, long-term investigations. If you’re facing a federal investigation, having an experienced attorney from Hacker Murphy is essential. We have successfully represented clients in various federal cases, protecting their rights and achieving favorable outcomes.

What to Do When Under Federal Investigation

If you suspect or know you’re under federal investigation, hire the best attorney you can afford immediately. Speaking to a federal agent without legal counsel can expose you to additional charges, even for seemingly minor false statements.

Key steps to take:

  1. Stay Silent: Do not speak with federal agents without legal representation.
  2. Hire Legal Counsel: The sooner you secure an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights.
  3. Avoid Mistakes: A knowledgeable attorney will guide you through the investigation, ensuring you don’t unintentionally incriminate yourself.

At Hacker Murphy, we’ve successfully navigated federal investigations for our clients, often avoiding charges altogether.

The Difference Between Federal and State Crimes

Some crimes fall under both state and federal jurisdiction, resulting in dual prosecutions. For example, tax fraud may involve both IRS investigators and state tax authorities. Defending against charges in both systems require a unique blend of expertise.

Key differences between state cases and federal cases include:

  • Court Procedures: Different rules of evidence and procedure.
  • Prosecutorial Resources: Federal prosecutors often have smaller caseloads and greater investigative support.
  • Sentencing: Federal sentencing guidelines differ significantly from state sentencing laws.

Hacker Murphy is one of the few firms with extensive experience in both state and federal courts. Whether your case transitions between jurisdictions or spans both systems simultaneously, we have the skills to defend you effectively.

Why Federal Criminal Defense Requires Special Expertise

Federal cases are inherently complex, often involving vast amounts of evidence, including financial records, electronic data, and wiretap transcripts. Federal prosecutors are backed by investigations from agencies like the FBI, DEA, and IRS, giving them a significant advantage.
To counter this, you need an experienced federal defense attorney who understands:

  • Federal Trial Attorneys: Federal courts have special rules and procedures and our experienced, federal attorneys are best equipped to represent you.
  • Mandatory Minimums: Many federal crimes carry minimum sentences, which can be difficult to avoid without skilled legal representation.
  • Complex Investigations: Federal cases often involve intricate evidence that requires in-depth analysis and strategic challenges.
  • Federal Sentencing Guidelines: These rules determine potential penalties based on offense severity and criminal history.

Federal Crime Sentencing Guidelines

Federal sentencing is governed by a set of rules known as the United States Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines produce an “Offense Level” and a “Criminal History Category,” which together determine a sentencing range.

While judges have discretion, the guidelines carry significant weight. Nearly half of all sentences in the Second Circuit (New York, Connecticut, and Vermont) fall within the guideline range. Avoiding mandatory minimum sentences or achieving below-guideline outcomes requires an attorney with deep knowledge of these rules.

Why Choose Hacker Murphy?

At Hacker Murphy, we have a proven track record of success in federal cases. Our attorneys:

  • Challenge Investigations: We scrutinize every aspect of the government’s case, from evidence collection to prosecutorial conduct.
  • Trial Attorneys: Hire the best courtroom advocate you can find.
  • Mitigate Sentencing Risks: If conviction is unavoidable, we fight for reduced sentences or alternatives like probation.
  • Navigate Complexity: From handling dual prosecutions to challenging mandatory minimums, we excel in complex federal cases.

Federal cases require the highest level of legal expertise. Don’t leave your future to chance. At Hacker Murphy, we bring decades of federal defense experience to every case.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7, including holidays, to provide immediate assistance. Call us at (518) 284-3183 or visit one of our offices in Albany, Schenectady, Troy, or Saratoga Springs.