Federal Criminal Defense
Practice Areas
- Criminal Defense
- DUI / OWI Defense
- Drug Crimes
- Domestic Violence
- Juvenile Defense
- Expungement
Michigan Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Accused of a Federal Crime? We Defend Your Future and Your Freedom
Facing federal criminal charges is a serious matter. Whether you are under investigation or have already been indicted for crimes such as drug trafficking, money laundering, wire fraud, or conspiracy, your future is on the line. Federal cases are complex, penalties are severe, and prosecutors are backed by powerful government agencies.
At M Criminal Law, we defend clients in federal court across Michigan. Our experienced legal team understands the unique challenges of federal cases and provides aggressive, strategic representation at every stage of the process.
đź“ž Call (313) 566-4802 today for a free and confidential consultation.
What Is a Federal Crime?
A federal crime is any offense that violates United States federal law rather than state law. These crimes typically involve activities that cross state lines, occur on federal property, or are investigated by federal agencies. Federal cases are heard in United States District Court and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys, who have substantial resources to pursue convictions.
Common examples include:
Drug trafficking across state or national borders
Money laundering through interstate or international transactions
Wire fraud involving internet-based financial crimes
Tax evasion investigated by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Firearms trafficking and weapons violations
How Do Federal Charges Differ From State Charges?
Federal charges are often more serious than state offenses. They typically involve higher penalties, longer prison sentences, and stricter procedural rules. While state courts handle local crimes such as simple assault or theft, federal courts deal with cases involving:
Multiple jurisdictions or large-scale operations
Federal property or agencies
High-dollar financial crimes or organized criminal activity
Investigations by agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Federal sentencing guidelines are much stricter than state guidelines, and many charges carry mandatory minimum sentences. Early legal intervention is absolutely critical.
Agencies Involved in Federal Investigations
Depending on the nature of the case, several agencies may be involved:
FBI: Investigates wire fraud, cybercrimes, conspiracy, and organized crime
DEA: Handles large-scale drug trafficking and manufacturing cases
IRS: Investigates tax evasion, financial fraud, and money laundering
ATF: Focuses on illegal firearms trafficking and explosives offenses
Department of Homeland Security: Investigates immigration-related crimes and human trafficking
These agencies often work together to build cases over months or even years before filing formal charges.
Types of Federal Criminal Cases We Handle
Drug Trafficking
Large-scale distribution, importation, or manufacturing of controlled substances. Penalties include mandatory minimum prison time and fines that may reach millions of dollars. These cases often involve surveillance, wiretaps, and confidential informants.
White Collar Crimes
Non-violent but high-impact offenses such as wire fraud, mail fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, and insider trading. Convictions may result in asset forfeiture, restitution orders, and lengthy prison terms.
Weapons Offenses
Illegal possession, transportation, or sale of firearms across state lines. Convictions may result in five or more years in federal prison, especially when linked to other crimes.
Cybercrimes
Internet-based crimes such as hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. These cases rely heavily on digital evidence and are prosecuted aggressively.
Tax Evasion and Financial Fraud
Failing to report income or intentionally filing false returns may lead to charges of tax evasion or fraud, often in combination with money laundering.
Federal Sex Crimes
Offenses such as child exploitation, human trafficking, or crossing state lines for unlawful sexual activity. Penalties include lengthy prison terms and sex offender registration.
Conspiracy Charges
You may be charged with conspiracy even if the intended crime was never completed. Federal prosecutors use conspiracy laws to target multiple individuals within an organization or network.
What to Expect in Federal Court
ederal criminal cases differ significantly from state cases in both procedure and consequences. If you have been indicted, it means a grand jury found probable cause and issued formal charges.
Typical federal court process includes:
Investigation: Conducted by agencies such as the FBI or DEA
Indictment: Formal charges issued by a grand jury
Arraignment: Charges are read in court, and you enter a plea
Pretrial Hearings: Motions are filed, and evidence is exchanged
Trial: Both sides present their cases before a federal judge or jury
Sentencing: If convicted, penalties are imposed under federal sentencing guidelines
Federal Sentencing Guidelines and Penalties
Federal judges use structured sentencing guidelines based on the severity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history. Many federal crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, limiting judicial discretion.
Possible penalties include:
Long-term federal prison sentences
Fines reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars or more
Seizure of assets and property
Probation or supervised release
Permanent federal criminal record
Additional consequences may include loss of voting rights, restrictions on firearm ownership, and barriers to employment, housing, or financial loans.
Building a Federal Defense Strategy
Defending against federal charges requires skill, preparation, and deep knowledge of federal law. At M Criminal Law, we build customized defense strategies by:
Challenging illegally obtained evidence
Disputing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
Cross-examining witnesses and exposing inconsistent testimony
Filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges
Negotiating plea agreements when appropriate
Preparing a strong trial defense aimed at acquittal or reduced penalties
What to Do If You Are Under Federal Investigation
If you suspect you are being investigated, seek legal representation immediately. Federal agencies often investigate for months before filing charges, and anything you say or do could be used against you.
Do not speak with investigators without your attorney present.
Do not voluntarily hand over documents, devices, or records.
Consult an attorney as early as possible to protect your rights and strengthen your defense.
Contact M Criminal Law Today
If you are under investigation or facing federal charges in Michigan, do not wait. The sooner a federal criminal defense attorney becomes involved, the better your chances of protecting your rights and your future.
đź“ž Call M Criminal Law at (313) 566-4802 today for a free consultation.
đź“Ť Serving Detroit, Dearborn, Wayne County, and all federal courts throughout Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Criminal Defense
Federal crimes involve violations of United States law, often crossing state lines, involving federal agencies, or affecting national interests. State crimes involve violations of state or local laws. Federal cases are prosecuted in United States District Court and often carry harsher penalties.
Yes. Under the “dual sovereignty” doctrine, both state and federal prosecutors may file separate charges for the same offense. This is uncommon but legally permitted.
Federal cases often take several months due to lengthy investigations, pretrial motions, and evidence gathering. Complex financial crimes or large conspiracy cases may take more than a year to resolve.
Not all, but many do. Drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and certain financial crimes frequently include mandatory minimum prison terms that judges must impose. An experienced federal defense attorney may be able to challenge those minimums or seek a reduced sentence.
Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators, hand over documents, or make statements without legal counsel. Early legal representation can protect your rights and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Yes. Federal cases can often be challenged by suppressing illegally obtained evidence, exposing procedural errors, questioning witness credibility, or negotiating favorable plea agreements. A strong legal defense may reduce charges or result in acquittal.
It depends on the charges, your criminal history, and whether the court considers you a flight risk or a danger to the community. Your attorney can request a bail hearing to argue for your release pending trial.