Long before a federal case goes to trial, the attorneys on both sides will engage in a lot of legal battles over everything from the charges that are levied to the jurors that are selected to hear the case. One of those battles may play out in what is known as a...
Federal Criminal Defense
When the feds come calling, you need to know how they view you
A visit from federal agents is not exactly anybody’s idea of a good time, but it may be your first clue that there’s serious legal trouble brewing. If this happens to you, you need to know – as early as possible – how they see you. The key to this is understanding the...
Is it legal to own a silencer for a firearm in North Carolina?
Your right to own a firearm has protection under the Second Amendment to the Constitution. Most adults without serious criminal records, a history of mental health issues or a dishonorable discharge from the military on their record can purchase and legally own...
Federal conspiracy charges and withdrawal
When you and your partners originally started talking about a money-making scheme that you knew was illegal under federal law, it was almost a joke -- until the conversation turned serious. Initially, you couldn’t help but think that it would be almost too easy to get...
Crossing state lines can make something a federal crime
In some cases, actions that would be considered state crimes can become federal crimes. One way that this happens is when you cross state lines while doing it. For instance, stalking laws indicate that it’s a federal violation if you cross a state line while stalking...
What must be proven to be convicted of RICO charges?
Since the '70s the government has been applying the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) to ever-expanding situations. Originally created to give prosecutors the ability to battle mafia organizations, it is now being used to a variety of...
Appealing your federal conviction: The first steps
When you’re charged and convicted of a federal crime in a district court -- whether that’s over something like Medicare fraud or money laundering -- your next thoughts may (naturally) be about an appeal. Understanding what needs to happen now is very important. Your...
2 times assault charges become federal, not state, offenses
Most individuals accused of violent offenses like assault will face state charges. Although the definition of assault varies from state to state, assault is one of the most common violent offenses in the country. Though most people accused of assault offenses will...
How transactional and use immunity differ
You’ve gotten mixed up in something illegal, and now you’re facing charges. You’re relieved to hear, however, that the prosecutor considers you “small game” compared to others who are involved in the crime. You’re being offered immunity in exchange for your testimony...
What to do if you are under federal indictment
A federal indictment, if you live in North Carolina or anywhere else in the nation, is a serious matter. You can be federally indicted for a wide array of crimes, such as bank fraud, cybercrimes, tax evasion, counterfeiting or numerous other offenses. The consequences...