Federal Sentencing Mitigation: What it is and Why it Matters
Sentencing mitigation is an extremely important tool for criminal defense attorneys. The sentencing phase of the federal criminal justice system can make convicted people feel […]
The idea of a federal criminal prosecution is terrifying. Significantly, reputations can be destroyed, livelihoods can be lost, and assets can be depleted. And above all, prison can be a real possibility. If you have reason to be concerned, don’t take chances. Contact one of our federal criminal defense lawyers right away. Although we are located in Raleigh, we represent clients accused of federal crimes everywhere in North Carolina.
Blue LLP’s white collar criminal defense lawyers are experienced, tested, and have represented clients at every stage of the process. As a matter of fact, we have represented clients during the investigation and target letter phase, at indictment, through trial, and on appeal.
All in all, we have a wealth of experience and a proven track record to show for it. Our federal criminal defense lawyers work tirelessly on each and every case to achieve the best outcome possible.
As criminal defense attorneys, we have represented clients in white collar prosecutions, investigations, and regulatory enforcement actions brought by the U.S. Department of Justice, the North Carolina (and other states’) Attorney General, the Federal Trade Commission, and multiple state regulators. As a result, our federal criminal defense lawyers in Raleigh have the experience to handle complex prosecutions that involve several defendants and claims.
Our approach, as criminal defense lawyers, is to prepare every case as though it were going to trial. To that end, we critically examine the government’s evidence so that we can advise our clients to make decisions that are in their best interest.
We understand the fears that any person facing a federal white collar investigation may face. The most immediate is always what the outcome could might be. If convicted, prison, fines, and asset forfeiture are just some of the potential consequences. As a result, in every single case, we work diligently to help our clients fully understand the Federal Sentencing Guidelines and how they might impact the decision-making process.
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Someone can easily be in the midst of a white collar federal criminal investigation and not be aware of it. The substantial increase in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud investigations and prosecutions is a perfect example.
Anyone from corporate counsel to investigators may try to learn whether an individual is willing to share information that incriminates that person, the company, or someone else. For these reasons, anyone approached by an investigator or corporate counsel should, at the very minimum, consult an experienced criminal defense attorney who has experience with white collar cases and federal crimes.
Conversations with corporate counsel have to be handled delicately. Although the company’s in-house lawyer might seem like just another co-worker, his or her client is the company itself and not the employee. This means that the company can waive the attorney-client privilege and divulge anything the employee says to the attorney. Therefore, prudent executives and employees should consult with their own white collar criminal defense attorney to advise them on whether and how to communicate with the company’s lawyer.
Likewise, anyone should exercise extreme caution if approached by an investigator. Suspects in criminal investigations are not under any legal obligation to talk to law enforcement. Moreover, lying to law enforcement is a criminal offense that is frequently prosecuted. As the saying goes, it’s not the crime, it’s the coverup.
If you need an experienced and skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact one of our federal criminal defense lawyers in Raleigh today.
Criminal Complaint. One way is for a law enforcement agent to file a criminal complaint. A criminal complaint is a sworn statement by a law enforcement officer that accuses a suspect of breaking a federal law. The sworn statement is presented to a federal judge who, upon making a preliminary finding of probable cause, issues a warrant for the suspect’s arrest. If the suspect has not done so already, he or she should hire a criminal defense lawyer who has federal experience.
Indictment. Another way to begin a federal criminal case involves the return of an indictment by a grand jury. The grand jury meets in secret and reviews evidence. If it determines that there is probable cause that a federal crime has occurred and the accused person committed it, it will return an indictment.
Information. A third way involves the negotiation of a plea agreement before a criminal complaint is sworn or indictment is returned. In these instances, a defendant usually hires (or is appointed) counsel after receiving a target letter, agrees to the allegations contained within a charging document called an information, and enters a guilty plea at an arraignment.
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We represent people who have been accused of bank fraud in all of its various forms. Our attorneys understand the complexities and nuances that can lead to an ill-targeted prosecution. As with every single case, we will conduct a thorough investigation of all of the allegations against a defendant, scrutinize the evidence presented, and work to build a strong defense that is tailored to each client’s specific circumstances.
Our law firm represents people who have been accused of conspiring with others to commit any number of federal criminal offenses. The federal conspiracy statutes are among the most commonly used criminal laws that allow suspected individuals to be charged and punished as though they committed the underlying offense. Our attorneys have substantial trial and appellate experience in conspiracy cases, and will work to achieve the best outcome possible in each and every case.
We represent individual employees and companies in internal investigations. For companies, we work with both inside or outside counsel to analyze risks and recommend actions in the best interest of the company. We also have extensive experience representing individual employees and executives when their interests and the company’s are not necessarily aligned. In either scenario, we work to help our clients to obtain the best outcomes possible.
Mail fraud is a serious federal offense that can result in up to 20 years in federal prison. Blue LLP represents people who have been accused of using the U.S. Postal Service and/or private carriers to engage in mail fraud. Contact one of our experienced attorneys today to learn more about how we can help.
Small business owners and medical practitioners facing criminal charges for Medicare and Medicaid fraud risk not only paying substantial fines and restitution but also prison. Our lawyers have represented people accused of Medicare and/or Medicaid fraud, and have defended against civil and criminal investigations. Contact us to learn more about our experience with these types of cases.
We represent clients facing federal wire fraud charges. Wire fraud is a serious federal offense that can carry significant penalties, including prison sentences and fines. We have extensive experience defending clients against wire fraud charges and other federal criminal offenses. Our team will work closely with you to develop a legal strategy tailored to your unique situation and goals.
Sentencing mitigation is an extremely important tool for criminal defense attorneys. The sentencing phase of the federal criminal justice system can make convicted people feel […]
In the federal system, a felony is a crime that can be punished by a term of one year or more imprisonment. Federal felonies are […]
Every federal criminal statute has a statutory sentencing range. Sometimes an offense may not have a minimum sentence. But in other cases, the minimum sentence […]