Indianapolis Federal Crime Lawyer
Both the states and the federal government have their own court system. They each have the power to prosecute individuals for criminal offenses. Most crimes are handled at the state level but there are some that are more severe and handled at the federal level. Any issues that deal with a violation of federal statutes fall within the federal court system’s jurisdiction and are prosecuted in federal courts.
Federal cases are typically ones that cross state lines. These offenses almost always carry harsher consequences than state cases. Penalties may include a lengthy prison term, hefty fines, and restrictions when it comes to certain occupations.
Not all lawyer can fight cases at the federal level. You need experience on your side. That’s where Rigney Law LLC comes in. Our skilled and knowledgeable Indianapolis federal crime lawyer can fight for you in court.
Types of Federal Crimes
- Assassination
- Killing a federal officer
- Drug trafficking and conspiracy
- Motor vehicle theft
- Child pornography
- Child abuse
- Bank robbery
- Kidnapping
- Arson
- Airplane hijacking
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Sex crimes
- Computer crimes
- Aggravated identity theft
- Fraud and other financial crimes
- Violations of interstate commerce
- Bombing
- Bribery
- Piracy
- Treason
- Terrorism
- Forcible rape
- Genocide
- Murder
- Sabotage
- Public corruption
- Racketeering
- Smuggling
- Taking a hostage
- Immigration offenses
- Overthrow of the government
- Copyright infringement
- Theft of trade secrets
- Damage to religious property
Federal Crime Process
When a person is charged with a federal crime, there are several stages:
- Initial appearance. Federal agents will arrest the suspect and place them in police custody. If there has been no arrest warrant, the suspect is placed before a judge, who will determine whether there is probable cause to believe that the person committed a crime. The suspect will be advised of their charges and legal rights. This initial court appearance must take place within 72 hours.
- This is when the defendant is formally informed of the charges against them. The defendant then enters a guilty or not guilty plea.
- Discovery and motion practice. Next is the discovery and motions process. Discovery is when the prosecutor can demand information and material about the case. A motion refers to papers filed with the district court asking it to do something. Examples may include dismissing the charges or suppressing evidence.
- Plea bargaining. The defendant can enter a plea of guilty and forego a trial as part of a plea bargain. A plea bargain allows for various concessions, such as dismissal of other charges or a recommendation for a particular sentence. If a plea agreement is reached, it is presented to the court. If the court accepts the agreement, the court will set a date for sentencing. If the court rejects the plea agreement, the case will proceed to trial.
Contact Rigney Law LLC Today
A federal crime is one that has crossed state lines. This means the charges and penalties are much more severe.
These are serious crimes that can greatly affect you for the rest of your life. Count on the Indianapolis federal crime lawyer team at Rigney Law LLC to help. We have experience with these complex cases. To schedule a consultation today, call (317) 623-0989 or fill out the online form.
