Fort Lauderdale, Florida Federal Crimes Defense Lawyer

Attorney for Federal Drug Crimes, Weapons Charges, and White Collar Crimes in Fort Lauderdale

When a person is accused of a federal crime, they may face harsh penalties. These cases often involve extensive investigations by government agencies and aggressive prosecution by U.S. attorneys. Due to mandatory minimum prison sentences that apply for many federal crimes, a person who is convicted in federal court could face years or even decades in prison, along with heavy fines and other consequences.

At The Hoffman Firm, our attorney works with people in Fort Lauderdale who are under investigation or have been charged with federal crimes. He understands the procedures followed in federal courts, and he works to protect his clients' rights at every stage of the process. Whether the charges involve drugs, weapons, financial crimes, or other offenses, he will develop strategic defenses and fight for the best possible outcome.

Federal Drug Crimes

Drug crimes are some of the most commonly prosecuted offenses in federal court. Federal charges may arise when a drug offense involves large quantities of controlled substances, or when activities related to the distribution of controlled substances cross state lines or national borders.

Federal drug charges may be related to allegations of drug trafficking or manufacturing controlled substances. In some cases, people may face federal charges related to drug conspiracies, with prosecutors alleging that they have agreed to engage in drug crimes with other people. Federal conspiracy charges may apply even if a person never carried out the offense in question.

Controlled substances involved in federal cases may include cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and large quantities of marijuana. Due to the use of federal sentencing guidelines, people who are convicted may face lengthy mandatory minimum prison sentences, with enhancements based on the alleged use of firearms or engaging in acts of violence.

Our lawyer can defend clients against federal drug charges by examining the validity of search warrants, challenging evidence obtained through surveillance or informants, questioning the accuracy of drug identification and weight calculations, and negotiating with federal prosecutors to seek dismissals, reduced charges, or favorable plea agreements.

Federal Weapons Offenses

Weapons charges may be prosecuted in federal courts if a person's alleged conduct violated federal firearm laws or involved interstate or international activity. Federal weapons offenses can result in long prison terms, especially when they are related to other criminal activity. Specific charges may include:

• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon or another prohibited person
• Firearm trafficking or illegal interstate sale and distribution of weapons
• Use or possession of a firearm during a drug crime or violent crime
• Possession of prohibited weapons such as machine guns, silencers, or short-barreled rifles

Penalties of federal firearm offenses may include years or decades in prison, with additional prison time being added to a sentence if firearms were allegedly used in the commission of another offense. Our attorney can defend clients against these charges by disputing firearm possession or control or working to reduce or avoid potential sentence enhancements.

Federal White Collar Crimes

When a person faces allegations of financial wrongdoing, they could be charged with federal offenses, especially if their actions allegedly affected people in multiple states or countries. White collar crimes prosecuted in federal courts may include:

• Wire fraud
• Mail fraud
• Bank fraud or mortgage fraud
• Securities fraud and insider trading
• Money laundering
• Health care fraud
• Tax evasion
• Bribery or public corruption

Investigations in these cases can be lengthy and complicated, and they may involve subpoenas, grand jury proceedings, and the seizure of a person's financial assets. Because of the complexity of financial records and the federal regulations that may apply, these cases require a close analysis of the government's claims, financial records, and other evidence.

Our lawyer defends clients accused of white collar crimes by challenging the prosecution's claims of intent, identifying weaknesses in the government's interpretation of evidence, raising constitutional issues related to violations of a person's rights, and negotiating with federal prosecutors to resolve cases without imprisonment or permanent criminal records when possible.

Federal Sex Offenses

Sex crimes can be charged at the federal level in certain situations, particularly when the alleged conduct crosses state lines, involves online communication, or includes the exploitation of minors. Convictions for federal sex offenses can result in lifelong consequences, including sex offender registration. Sex crimes that may be prosecuted in federal courts include:

• Production, possession, or distribution of child pornography
• Online enticement or solicitation of a minor
• Interstate travel to engage in unlawful sexual conduct
• Sex trafficking
• Sexual abuse on federal property or involving federal employees

Federal sex crime prosecutions may be based on complex digital evidence, undercover operations, and forensic computer analysis. Our attorney can provide a discreet and aggressive defense in these cases, working to challenge how evidence was obtained, whether a person's constitutional rights were violated, and whether the government can prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

Why Experience Matters in Federal Criminal Matters

Federal criminal cases are often more complex than state-level criminal prosecutions. The investigation methods, rules of evidence, court procedures, and sentencing guidelines will all need to be addressed by an attorney who has the necessary knowledge and experience. Federal prosecutors have extensive resources, and they often spend months or years building cases before filing charges. A defendant will need to work with an attorney who can respond effectively to the prosecution's accusations and evidence.

At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer has the knowledge and courtroom skill required to defend clients in federal court. He works to ensure that clients understand the procedures that will be followed in these cases and the defense strategies that are most likely to be successful. His representation includes:

• Conducting a thorough review of government evidence
• Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
• Challenging the credibility of government witnesses and informants
• Exploring alternatives to indictment or negotiating favorable plea agreements
• Preparing a strong defense for trial
• Advocating for reduced sentencing under the federal guidelines

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale, FL Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

In a federal criminal case, you need an experienced lawyer who understands how to defend you and help you achieve a positive outcome. At The Hoffman Firm, our attorney will protect your rights and your freedom while working to minimize the consequences that may affect your life. Contact our Fort Lauderdale federal crimes lawyer at 954-524-4474 for a free consultation.