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Queens Federal Defense Lawyer
Queens Federal Defense Lawyer
If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re in serious legal trouble—federal prosecutors in Queens are coming after you, and you need the best possible defense attorneys. At Spodek Law Group, we understand what’s at stake. Our Queens federal defense lawyers have handled some of the most challenging federal cases nationwide, and we have over 50 years of combined experience. Whether it’s a complex drug indictment under 21 U.S.C. § 841 or allegations of fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, we’ve seen it all. We have offices throughout Long Island and NYC, and we are available 24/7 to provide a risk-free consultation.
Understanding Federal Jurisdiction vs. State-Level Charges
Many clients ask: “Why am I in federal court, not Queens state court?” Under federal law, the Department of Justice typically steps in when there’s a multi-state element, a federal statute at issue, or a cross-border investigation. That’s how you end up facing federal allegations. State and federal systems are separate sovereignties, which ties into the double jeopardy question—if Queens dismisses your case, the Feds can still decide to charge you under federal statutes. It’s a VERY HARSH reality for many defendants, and it’s one of the reasons you want a top Queens federal defense attorney on your side.
Double Jeopardy Nuances
Double jeopardy usually prohibits you from being tried twice by the same sovereign, but state and federal governments are distinct. If you already fought charges in Queens Criminal Court and the case got tossed, you’re not necessarily safe if federal prosecutors think there’s a federal angle. Our team digs into every detail of the investigation—if there’s any sign federal authorities are reusing evidence improperly or stretching the law, we’ll file motions to dismiss or suppress. We’ll do everything in our power to show the federal court that they can’t just re-prosecute you without meeting strict constitutional standards.
Potential Federal Crimes and Penalties
Federal offenses always carry more severe penalties than state charges, with longer prison sentences, hefty fines, and the possibility of mandatory minimums. Below is a quick table so you can look at some common federal charges, along with typical penalties and possible defense angles:
| Federal Offense | Penalties | Potential Defense Approaches |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Trafficking (21 U.S.C. § 841) | 5+ years mandatory minimum (depending on quantity), possible huge fines | Attack validity of search warrants; question lab results |
| Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) | Up to 20 years in federal prison, massive fines | Show lack of criminal intent; challenge electronic evidence |
| Money Laundering (18 U.S.C. § 1956) | Up to 20 years in prison, financial penalties, asset forfeiture | Prove legitimate sources of funds; dispute financial records |
| Gun Offenses (18 U.S.C. § 922) | Varies, often 5+ years mandatory if prior convictions | Challenge probable cause for search; argue entrapment |
No matter what you’re accused of, you should know that our federal defense attorneys will look at the full context of your situation. Our team will break down every single piece of evidence, interview witnesses, and compare the government’s version of events against what actually happened.
Roleplaying Different Defense Scenarios
We customize our legal strategy to your unique situation. It’s never one-size-fits-all, because federal charges often hinge on small details that can make or break a case.
Scenario #1: “Drug Trafficking in Queens”
Federal agents are claiming that you’re moving large amounts of narcotics across state lines. They rely on wiretaps, confidential informants, and lab results. We scrutinize the legality of these wiretaps—did they have proper court authorization? Did the informant have ulterior motives? We might expose procedural missteps that invalidate key evidence, giving us leverage to push for a dismissal or a significantly reduced charge.
Scenario #2: “Complicated White-Collar Allegations”
You’re accused of defrauding investors through a startup in Queens, so the feds bring wire fraud charges. We focus on intent. If there’s no proof you intended to scam anyone, the government has a problem. We can show you genuinely believed in your business plan—maybe it was just a failed venture, not a fraud. If the prosecution can’t prove criminal intent, they don’t have a federal case.
Scenario #3: “Firearm Possession as a Felon”
Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), if you have a prior felony record and you’re caught with a gun, you could face a decade or more in federal prison. We check the traffic stop or search that led to the discovery of the weapon. If police had no probable cause, or if there’s a chain-of-custody issue, we can argue the evidence should be thrown out. Without that gun, there’s no charge.
How to Get Out of It—Our Philosophy
At Spodek Law Group, our only goal is to get your case dismissed or significantly reduced. We look for flaws in the government’s investigation, from how evidence was gathered to whether agents coerced a confession. We file motions to suppress any illegally obtained evidence. If key pieces of the prosecution’s puzzle are excluded, the entire federal case might collapse.
When that’s not possible, we explore other strategies, like seeking a favorable plea or, if needed, taking the matter to trial. Our criminal lawyers are always prepared to fight in court. Whether the government threatens mandatory minimums or tries to steamroll you into pleading guilty, we won’t back down. We believe in presenting all your options and helping you decide what’s best for your future.
Why Choose Spodek Law Group
We are a premier, top-rated federal criminal defense law firm that’s handled some of the most widely publicized cases in America—like the Anna Delvey/Anna Sorokin case, which became a Netflix series. We have a STRONG track record of dealing with high-stakes situations and emerging victorious. Our attorneys are second-generation defense lawyers who understand federal cases. We use a fully online digital portal so you can review documents, communicate with our team, and handle billing without leaving your home.
We also believe in taking on only those clients we can genuinely help. That’s different from many “mill” law firms that sign every client who comes knocking, even if they can’t help you – or know your case is unwinnable. We’d rather focus on you and give you the personalized attention you deserve. We’re available 24/7 for a risk-free consultation because we know federal cases don’t wait for standard business hours.
Insights for Federal Defendants
- Remain Silent Until You Speak to an Attorney: Federal agents will try to get you talking immediately. Exercise your right to remain silent. Talking will only hurt you.
- Document Everything: Keep records, texts, emails—anything relevant to your defense.
- Avoid Public Statements: Prosecutors sometimes use your social media posts to strengthen their case.
- Communicate Frequently with Your Lawyer: The more we know about your side of the story, the better we can craft your criminal case.
Take Control of Your Future
If you’re reading this, you’re already exploring your options for the best Queens criminal defense attorney. Don’t let the federal government decide your life. At Spodek Law Group, we have the experience, resources, and reputation to fight back against overzealous prosecutors. We defend clients all over the country, and we’re ready to help you—whether you’ve just been served a target letter or you’re weeks away from trial.