Understanding State and Federal Court Jurisdiction: An Overview by Spodek Law Group

When it comes to criminal cases, the court where the case is heard depends on the jurisdiction. The jurisdiction can be state or federal, and it determines the type of crime that can be prosecuted. Spodek Law Group, led by Attorney Todd Spodek, has extensive experience in both state and federal courts, providing our clients with the best possible defense.

State versus Federal Court Jurisdiction

Pennsylvania, like most other states, has broad jurisdiction, and its courts can hear almost every kind of criminal case. Most crimes, such as theft, DUI, illegal drugs, assault, and traffic offenses, fall under state laws and can be prosecuted in state court. However, federal courts only hear cases where there is a violation of federal law. If you commit a crime on federal property, use the US mail for extortion, or smuggle heroin into the US, you will be tried in federal court.

Experience Handling Jurisdiction in Both State and Federal Courts

Sometimes, both state and federal courts can have jurisdiction in some criminal cases. If a crime violates both state and federal law, the defendant can be charged and prosecuted in each jurisdiction. Spodek Law Group has vast experience handling such cases and can help you navigate the complex legal landscape. For instance, if someone in Pennsylvania tries to get a Michigan resident to invest in a nonexistent business and they use email to make their fraudulent offer, they can be tried in a state court in either Pennsylvania or Michigan or in a federal court.

Crimes tried in federal court, as opposed to a Pennsylvania court, are especially serious, including drug violations that involve trafficking large quantities of controlled substances. For example, if you are caught with a large quantity of heroin that you moved across state lines, your case is more likely to be prosecuted in a federal court. Federal investigators often step in to investigate high-profile crimes that draw intense national interest, and the U.S. Department of Justice will then move to prosecute the suspects.

Key Differences Between State and Federal Criminal Systems

Jurisdiction is the power to investigate, prosecute, and decide cases. A state has jurisdiction over defendants who violate the laws of that state, while the federal government has power over defendants who commit criminal acts on federal property or whose criminal acts cross state lines. The federal government also has jurisdiction over a group of federally defined crimes, such as offenses related to immigration fraud and U.S. customs violations.

Police officers enforce and investigate violations of state law within their territorial jurisdiction, while federal agencies with law enforcement authority enforce and investigate only federal crimes that fall within their agency’s purview. Federal criminal prosecutions are handled by U.S. attorneys, while state prosecutors prosecute violations of state and local law. Defense attorneys at Spodek Law Group are experienced in both state and federal criminal defense and can help you build a strong defense.

Experienced Trial Courts and Judges

Most federal criminal prosecutions occur in United States District Courts, while state criminal prosecutions are handled in local or state courts. Federal trial judges are known as District Court judges, and they are appointed for life by the President, subject to confirmation by the U.S. Senate. State court judges are typically initially appointed by governors and then are subject to election every few years. In both state and federal courts, magistrates may preside over pretrial hearings such as bail hearings, as well as less serious criminal trials.

Confinement after Conviction

A person convicted in state court and sentenced to imprisonment might spend time in local jail or state prison. State prisons handle long-term confinement of inmates serving felony sentences (Continued)

On the other hand, a person convicted in federal court falls under the correctional authority of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The BOP determines where to house offenders based on security and program needs. The BOP does not have a state jail equivalent for offenders serving short-term sentences but will often contract with a local jail to house a federal inmate with less than a year to serve.

Experienced Defense Attorneys at Spodek Law Group

At Spodek Law Group, our experienced defense attorneys are here to help you with your criminal defense case, no matter if it’s in state or federal court. We have a deep understanding of the law and the legal system, and we will use our knowledge to help you get the best possible outcome. We know how to navigate the complex legal landscape and build a strong defense, whether you are facing charges for a state or federal crime.

Our team is committed to providing our clients with personalized attention and an aggressive defense. We will fight for your rights and work tirelessly to ensure that your case is resolved in the best possible way. We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and stressful, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Conclusion

If you are facing criminal charges, it’s essential to work with an experienced defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and build a strong defense. At Spodek Law Group, we have extensive experience handling criminal defense cases in both state and federal courts. We understand the nuances of each system and can use our knowledge to help you get the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Attorney Todd Spodek and learn more about how we can help you.

State vs Federal Criminal Justice System – Comparison Table