Facing federal charges in Montgomery, Alabama, can feel overwhelming. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we focus on helping you understand your rights and what you’re up against. Federal cases follow strict rules and procedures that are very different from those of state courts. Defendants need a defense team that knows how federal prosecutors work and can guide them through every step of the case in Montgomery, Alabama.
Our team has significant experience handling these situations and is here to help. Contact us today at (205) 930-9800 to schedule a free consultation with a Montgomery federal crimes lawyer.
Why Choose Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. If You’re Arrested for Federal Crimes in Montgomery, AL?
When your future is at stake, you want a law firm in Montgomery, AL, that stands by your side from start to finish. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we’re not afraid to take on tough federal cases. Choosing us means you’ll have a team working on your defense from every possible angle.
Some reasons people across Alabama turn to our firm include:
- More than 100 years of combined legal skill
- The only firm in the country to free three men from death row through new trials
- A team approach where your case is discussed, reviewed, and strategized by all our partners and associates
- Ongoing communication – you will never be just another case number
Contact us if you’ve been arrested and need legal support. We’ll help you schedule a free consultation with our Montgomery criminal defense attorneys.
Overview of Federal Crimes in Alabama
Federal crimes in Alabama cover many different acts that fall under United States laws instead of just Alabama state laws. Federal courts handle these cases, which can often mean longer prison time and much more serious consequences than state charges.
Federal charges are filed when someone breaks laws set by the United States government.
Here are situations when federal charges might come into play:
- Crossing State Lines: If a crime starts in Alabama but involves crossing state lines, this can lead to federal charges. This commonly includes drug trafficking, kidnapping, certain types of fraud, or gun charges.
- Big Financial Crimes: Federal courts often take on cases with bank fraud, money laundering, large-scale insurance fraud, or crimes involving businesses in different states.
- Cases Involving Federal Agencies: If the FBI, DEA, Secret Service, or other big federal agencies are involved in the investigation, the charges usually come from the federal government.
- Internet Crimes: Crimes that use electronic communication, especially when people or computers are in different states or countries, usually end up as federal charges.
If you’re facing an investigation or charges, it’s important to know which court system has the case, as this will have a significant effect.
What Are the Penalties for Federal Crimes in Montgomery, Alabama?
Federal crime penalties depend on the nature of the offense and the circumstances of each case. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, your criminal history can make a big difference. Federal sentences are also often much harsher than those handed down by state courts.
Examples of possible punishments include:
- State prison sentences
- Fines
- Supervised release or probation
- Asset forfeiture and restitution to victims
- Sex offender registration
- Deportation for non-citizens
- Loss of certain civil rights
If you’re facing federal charges, it’s important to understand what you could be up against. Your lawyer can give you a better idea of that based on the specific charge you’re dealing with.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Federal Crimes?
If you’re arrested for a federal crime, the defenses that may work for your case depend a lot on the specific charge itself.
Below are examples of possible defenses your defense lawyer can raise in response to federal charges:
Alibi
An alibi defense means you claim you were somewhere else when the crime happened, so you couldn’t possibly have committed it. Alibi defenses often come up in federal cases like bank robbery, drug trafficking, or even computer crimes if it’s being argued that you committed a crime on the computer at a certain time.
Lack of Intent
Many federal crimes require intent, meaning you actually meant to commit the crime. For instance, tax fraud or wire fraud usually only turns into a crime if a person meant to defraud someone. If you can show your actions were a mistake or a misunderstanding, it can help you defend against these charges.
Mistaken Identity
This defense argues that law enforcement or witnesses have the wrong person. This could come up in kidnapping cases or serious white collar crimes like embezzlement and insider trading.
Illegal Search and Seizure
If the government collected evidence without following proper legal steps, such as searching your car, home, or computer without a valid warrant or probable cause, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress that evidence. If it’s successful, that evidence cannot be used against you, which would significantly weaken the case against you.
Ultimately, the exact defense used will be completely fact-dependent, and is something your lawyer will decide once they review your charges and your case.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Montgomery Federal Crimes Lawyer
It’s normal to feel lost after being charged with a federal crime, but you don’t have to handle it alone. We know what’s at stake, and we’ll do everything we can to help you. When you contact us, we answer any questions you have and get started right away on building your defense.
Contact Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Montgomery federal crimes attorney.