Last Updated on: 19th October 2023, 01:49 pm

Washington Federal Criminal Lawyers

If you’ve been charged with a federal crime in Washington, you need an experienced federal criminal defense attorney on your side. Federal crimes carry serious penalties, including long prison sentences, that can disrupt your life forever. Let’s break down what you need to know about federal criminal charges in Washington and how a knowledgeable lawyer can help.

Types of Federal Crimes

Some of the most common federal charges in Washington include:

• Drug crimes – Drug trafficking, distribution, manufacturing, and possession crimes make up a large portion of federal cases. Charges may include conspiracy if multiple people are involved.
• White collar crimes – Fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, money laundering, and other financial crimes are prosecuted at the federal level.
• Violent crimes – Crimes like murder, kidnapping, and robbery can become federal cases depending on the circumstances and location.
• Sex crimes – Child pornography, sex trafficking, and abuse on federal property may lead to federal charges.
• Cybercrimes – Hacking, identity theft, and other computer-based crimes often fall under federal jurisdiction.

The list goes on – firearms violations, racketeering, terrorism, and more may be charged as federal offenses. If the crime affects interstate commerce, occurs on federal land, involves multiple states, or violates federal statutes, the feds can take over the case.

Penalties for Federal Convictions

Make no mistake – the potential consequences for a federal conviction are severe. Under federal sentencing guidelines, penalties for federal crimes include:

• Long prison sentences – We’re talking decades behind bars for many federal crimes.
• Massive fines – White collar crimes, in particular, can lead to fines in the millions.
• Probation – Federal probation comes with strict conditions like drug testing and restrictions on travel.
• Asset forfeiture – The government can seize property connected to the criminal activity.
• Loss of rights – Voting rights, gun ownership rights, and other civil liberties may be lost.

Unlike state cases where parole is a possibility, there is no parole in the federal system. You must serve at least 85% of your sentence, so 10 years means a minimum of 8.5 years in federal prison.

Your Constitutional Rights

Facing the power and resources of the federal government can be intimidating. But you have important constitutional rights that an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer can leverage to protect you, including:

• The right to remain silent – You never have to talk to investigators without a lawyer present.
• The right to an attorney – If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed.
• Protection against unreasonable searches – Evidence obtained without a warrant may be suppressed.
• The presumption of innocence – The burden is on the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Knowing your rights is key, because the feds won’t advise you of them. Don’t say anything to investigators without consulting with counsel first.

Federal Criminal Defense Strategies

An accomplished federal criminal lawyer has the experience to protect your rights and build an aggressive defense to achieve the best possible outcome. Here are some strategies they may use:

• File pretrial motions – File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or statements.
• Investigate the case – Independently gather evidence and interview witnesses.
• Negotiate with prosecutors – Fight for plea deals or reduced charges/sentences.
• Take cases to trial – When necessary, vigorously defend clients at trial.
• Challenge sentencing – Object to sentencing enhancements and advocate for fair punishment.
• Appeal convictions – Identify issues for appeal and pursue all post-conviction relief.

The most successful outcomes often result from leverage during the pretrial phase. An assertive lawyer resolutely defending your rights can sometimes lead to charges being dismissed or reduced before trial.