Florissant Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Let Our Firm Defend You Today

If you're facing federal criminal charges, the stakes are higher than ever. Federal crimes often come with severe penalties, complex procedures, and aggressive prosecution by U.S. attorneys. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our experienced Florissant federal criminal defense lawyers provide strategic, skilled representation to defend your rights and fight for your future.

Don’t wait—schedule your free consultation today by calling (314) 334-3807 or completing our online contact form.

What is a Federal Crime?

Federal crimes are offenses that violate United States federal law and are prosecuted by the federal government. These crimes are typically investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, or Homeland Security and are tried in U.S. District Courts rather than state courts.

In contrast, state crimes are violations of Missouri state law and are prosecuted by local district attorneys in state court systems. While many crimes can fall under both federal and state jurisdictions (such as drug trafficking or fraud), federal cases tend to involve:

• Cross-state activity (interstate commerce)
• Federal property or agencies
• High financial thresholds or complex criminal enterprises

For example, possessing a small amount of marijuana might be prosecuted at the state level, but trafficking drugs across state lines is a federal offense. Similarly, hacking a local computer system may be a state crime, while breaching a federal database is a federal violation.

Common Types of Federal Crimes

Our Florissant federal criminal defense lawyers handle a broad range of federal offenses, including but not limited to:

White Collar Crimes

These non-violent offenses typically involve financial deception and are often prosecuted at the federal level. Common examples include:

• Wire fraud
• Mail fraud
• Securities fraud
• Embezzlement
• Money laundering

Drug Crimes

Federal drug offenses usually involve larger quantities or interstate trafficking, including:

• Drug manufacturing and distribution
• Possession with intent to distribute
• Importation/exportation of controlled substances
• Conspiracy charges

Firearms Offenses

Federal gun crimes often involve violations of national gun laws or weapons trafficking, such as:

• Felon in possession of a firearm
• Illegal gun sales or trafficking
• Possession of firearms during a drug crime

Internet and Cyber Crimes

With the rise of digital offenses, many internet-based crimes fall under federal jurisdiction:

• Identity theft
• Child pornography
• Computer hacking
• Online fraud

Immigration Offenses

Crimes involving documentation or illegal reentry often result in federal charges:

• Visa fraud
• Illegal reentry after deportation
• Human trafficking

Conspiracy Charges

A person can be charged with conspiracy even without completing the criminal act, as long as there’s an agreement to commit a federal crime and an overt act in furtherance of that crime.

Penalties for Federal Convictions

Federal convictions often result in severe consequences, including:

• Lengthy prison sentences: Many federal offenses carry mandatory minimums.
• Heavy fines: Fines in federal cases can reach into the hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars.
• Forfeiture of assets: The government may seize property believed to be linked to criminal activity.
• Supervised release or probation: Offenders may be subjected to long-term monitoring after serving prison time.
• Loss of civil rights: Convictions can result in the loss of the right to vote, own firearms, or hold certain professional licenses.
• Immigration consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or denial of reentry.

With so much at risk, having a skilled Florissant federal criminal defense lawyer by your side can make a life-changing difference in the outcome of your case.

FAQs About Federal Crimes in Missouri

Q: How is a federal case initiated?
A: Most federal investigations begin with a federal agency (like the FBI or DEA). If sufficient evidence exists, a U.S. Attorney may present the case to a grand jury, which decides whether to issue an indictment.

Q: Can I be charged at both the state and federal level for the same crime?
A: Yes. Under the "dual sovereignty doctrine," you can be prosecuted by both state and federal courts for the same conduct, though this is rare in practice.

Q: What is the federal sentencing process?
A: Federal judges use the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines to determine penalties. However, judges do have discretion to depart from these guidelines in certain situations.

Q: Do I need a lawyer who specializes in federal defense?
A: Absolutely. Federal court operates under a different set of rules, procedures, and sentencing guidelines than state court. Not all criminal defense attorneys are equipped to handle federal charges. The Hammer Law Firm, LLC has the experience and knowledge required to navigate this complex system effectively.

Contact Our Florissant Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is under investigation or has been charged with a federal offense, don’t wait. The federal government begins building its case long before charges are filed. Let us help you level the playing field.

Contact us at  (314) 334-3807 now to schedule a confidential consultation with a top-rated Florissant federal criminal defense attorney.