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Netflix · 2022 · Created by Shonda Rhimes

You’ve seen the show. This is the real defense.

Netflix’s Inventing Anna dramatized Todd Spodek’s defense of Anna Delvey - the “fake heiress” who captivated New York. Todd is portrayed by Arian Moayed of Succession; the strategy on screen is the strategy he argued in the real courtroom.

“Just like Sinatra had to do it his way, Anna had to do it her way.

Todd’s opening statement · The Sorokin trial, 2019

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Bring this defense to your case → Read the Anna Delvey file →
Inventing Anna on Netflix - Todd Spodek's Anna Delvey defense dramatized
The official trailer · Inventing Anna Todd portrayed by Arian Moayed

FEDERAL CRIMINAL LAWYERS - SPODEK LAW GROUP

AS SEEN ON
NETFLIX. FOX NEWS. NY POST. INSIDER.

EXPERIENCED
TOP RATED
DEDICATED

We’re Spodek Law Group P.C. - a premier, award winning Federal Criminal Defense law firm. We’ve been featured on major media outlets, and are proud of our track record handling some of the toughest legal issues nationwide. We have a amazing team of attorneys, who have over 50 years of combined experience. Regardless of where your case is in the USA, or the situation you’re dealing with, or the stage of the case, we can help you. Our team of federal criminal defense attorneys have experience handling the toughest cases that other firms turn down. If you're accused of a federal crime, it's important you understand what you're facing.

UNDERSTANDING FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re facing serious allegations - or you’re worried about a federal investigation. Federal charges are handled in U.S. District Courts, where penalties and sentencing guidelines tend to be more stringent than state-level proceedings. According to the Department of Justice, federal prosecutors have extensive resources to build a strong case against you. That’s why you need attorneys who get it.

FEDERAL VS. STATE CRIMINAL CASES
The biggest difference? Federal crimes typically cross state lines, involve federal agencies, or impact federal interests. The FBI or the DEA often handle these investigations, giving the government an edge in collecting evidence. Unlike local charges, federal cases frequently come with longer sentences, mandatory minimums, and advanced investigative techniques.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEDERAL CRIMINAL PROCESS
It’s different from state court. Period.

  • Investigation Phase: Federal agencies use subpoenas, wiretaps, and coordinated sting operations. Grand juries issue indictments.
  • Indictment vs. Complaint: Indictments are formal charges approved by a grand jury. Sometimes, a sealed indictment is filed before you even know you’re a target.
  • Arrest & Initial Appearance: You’ll appear before a federal magistrate judge. Bail or detention gets decided here.
  • Pretrial Proceedings: Discovery, plea negotiations, and motion practice. We might challenge illegally obtained evidence or constitutional violations.
  • Trial in Federal Court: Juries here are often strict. The prosecutor must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • Sentencing Hearing: Federal Sentencing Guidelines come into play, along with any mandatory minimums.
  • Post-Conviction & Appeals: You can appeal on legal or procedural grounds. The timeline can be lengthy but crucial.

TYPES OF FEDERAL CRIMES
Regardless of the offense, our Federal Criminal Lawyers can help you.

  • White Collar Offenses
    • Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341)
    • Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343)
    • Securities Fraud
    • Money Laundering (18 U.S.C. § 1956)
  • Drug Crimes
    • Drug Trafficking (21 U.S.C. § 841)
    • Conspiracy (21 U.S.C. § 846)
    • Mandatory Minimums can apply
  • Organized Crime & RICO
    • Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (18 U.S.C. § 1961)
    • Enterprise liability, conspiracy
  • Violent Crimes
    • Gun Offenses (18 U.S.C. § 922)
    • Hate Crimes, Kidnapping
  • Cybercrimes
    • Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. § 1030)
    • Identity theft, hacking, phishing
  • Immigration Offenses
    • Illegal Reentry (8 U.S.C. § 1326)
    • Document Fraud, Smuggling
  • Sex Crimes
    • Child Pornography (18 U.S.C. § 2252)
    • Sex Trafficking (18 U.S.C. § 1591)
  • Terrorism
    • Material Support (18 U.S.C. § 2339B)
    • National security investigations
  • Public Corruption
    • Bribery of public officials, extortion
  • Environmental Crimes
    • EPA Violations, hazardous waste mismanagement

FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES & PENALTIES
Federal sentences can be harsh. The United States Sentencing Commission has guidelines that judges are required to consider. If convicted, you might face:

  • Prison Time: Many federal crimes have statutory minimums.
  • Fines & Restitution: Could be millions of dollars for white collar cases.
  • Supervised Release: Post-incarceration supervision.
  • Collateral Consequences: Difficulty finding employment or housing, immigration consequences for non-citizens.

BUILDING A STRONG FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE
At Spodek Law Group P.C., we pride ourselves on having a rock star team of attorneys who have over 50 years of combined experience. We know how to handle complex investigations. Our strategy may include:

  • Pre-Indictment Advocacy: Sometimes we can engage prosecutors before formal charges, reducing the severity or preventing charges altogether.
  • Discovery & Evidence Analysis: We review all evidence, challenge unconstitutional searches, and poke holes in the prosecutor’s case.
  • Negotiations & Plea Bargains: In many instances, a favorable plea deal might be your best move. We leverage our experience to get charges reduced.
  • Trial Defense: If necessary, we fight in court. Our attorneys have experience cross-examining government witnesses, discrediting questionable evidence, and presenting a compelling narrative to the jury.

FEDERAL APPEALS AND POST-CONVICTION RELIEF
A conviction isn’t always the end. If errors occurred:

  • Appeals: Legal errors or ineffective assistance of counsel can lead to reversal or retrial.
  • Habeas Corpus & 2255 Motions: We’ll argue constitutional violations or new evidence.
  • Sentence Reductions: Cooperation with the government or changes in law can open the door to a shorter sentence.

WORKING WITH A FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
If you’re under investigation, you need a team that’s available 24/7. Our attorneys:

  • Have relationships with federal prosecutors and know the local processes.
  • Provide transparent billing and white glove service.
  • Use an online digital portal, so you can submit documents securely from anywhere in the country.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
What Should I Do If I Receive a Target Letter?
Immediately speak with an attorney. Don’t wait until you’re indicted.

Are Federal Sentences Longer Than State Sentences?
Often, yes. Mandatory minimums and sentencing guidelines can be unforgiving.

How Long Does a Federal Investigation Last?
It varies - sometimes months, sometimes years. The government builds a case quietly before you even know you’re a target.

Should I Accept a Plea Bargain?
It depends on the facts. Sometimes it’s the optimal strategy to avoid a lengthy prison term. Sometimes, going to trial is best.

CONCLUSION
When facing federal charges, remember: you are not alone. The stakes are high, but we’re here to help you navigate each step. We’ve handled headline-making cases - like representing Anna Delvey (Anna Sorokin), whose story hit Netflix. Our attorneys have been seen on major news outlets for a reason: we deliver results. Our philosophy is simple - fight relentlessly for your best outcome.

CONTACT US
We are available 24/7. If the federal authorities are knocking on your door, reach out now. We can help.

DISCLAIMER
No recipient of content from this site, client or otherwise, should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included herein without seeking appropriate legal counsel licensed in the recipient’s state. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique, and references to prior cases do not imply that a similar result will be obtained for other clients.

Spodek Law Group P.C.
We are a premier, and award winning, New York / Federal criminal defense law firm. We have experience dealing with some of the toughest legal issues nationwide. Regardless of what you’re facing, we can help you.

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