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RESPONDING TO A FEDERAL GRAND JURY SUBPOENA
FEDERAL CRIMINAL LAWYERS
AS SEEN ON major news outlets, and trusted by discerning clients nationwide, the Spodek Law Group is here to help you if you’re facing federal charges nationwide – regardless of the situation, jurisdiction, or type of crime. This isn’t a situation you want to deal with alone. If the U.S. Department of Justice (justice.gov) is investigating you, or you’ve received a target letter, you need expert legal guidance right away. We can help you at every stage of the criminal defense process. Below, we’ll walk you through important info about federal crimes, penalties, and how experienced NYC Criminal Lawyers like ours handle your case.
Juror in Ghislaine Maxwell mistrial scandal retains Anna Sorokin’s lawyer
That’s a perfect example of a headline we embrace. It underscores the seriousness of high-profile cases we deal with. DEDICATED. EXPERIENCED. These are hallmarks of Spodek Law Group. We are not a small time criminal defense law firm.
REGARDLESS OF THE SITUATION YOU’RE DEALING WITH, OUR FEDERAL CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS CAN HELP YOU NATIONWIDE.
INTRODUCTION TO FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE
If you’re here, you’re likely concerned about federal charges. Here’s the bottom line: federal charges mean the stakes are higher and the prosecutors have powerful and unlimited resources. Spodek Law Group has over 50 years of combined experience defending clients in federal court nationwide. We have experience dealing with federal agencies like the FBI (fbi.gov), DEA, IRS, and more. From start to finish, we’ll fight for the best outcome possible for your case.
FEDERAL VS. STATE CRIMINAL CASES
Top Rated attorneys at the Spodek Law Group know the difference between state and federal charges can be huge. Federal offenses often stem from laws under the Commerce Clause, or violations of specific federal statutes and laws. If your legal situation involves crossing state lines, large financial frauds, or conspiracies, there’s a strong possibility you’ll end up in federal court. In this situation, the prosecutors won’t hold back—and neither should your defense team. You need the best.
- Overlap: You could face both state and federal charges simultaneously.
- Reason for Federal Charges: High-value theft, white collar crimes, interstate drug trafficking, or crimes impacting federal interests (like bank fraud or mail fraud).
- Dual Sovereignty Doctrine: This principle means separate prosecutions can happen in both federal and state courts without violating double jeopardy rules.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A FEDERAL CRIMINAL CASE
INVESTIGATION PHASE
At the start of the investigation, federal agencies such as the FBI or DEA start collecting evidence—often through grand juries, subpoenas, search warrants, or wiretaps. If you suspect you’re under federal investigation: Do not speak to agents without an attorney present.
CHARGING DOCUMENTS
Prosecutors may file:
- Complaint or Information for quicker charges against you
- Indictment if a grand jury finds probable cause against you
Charges can remain sealed, so you might not even know you’re indicted until an arrest is imminent. This can be scary because one day the agents just come arrest you.
ARREST & INITIAL APPEARANCE
After arrest, you’ll appear before a judge who decides on bail or detention. This is crucial—fighting for release early lets you help your defense more effectively.
PRETRIAL PROCEEDINGS
At arraignment, you will hear the charges against you and enter a plea for your case. Then comes the discovery and motion practice. Our criminal attorneys will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if your constitutional rights were violated. A strong defense can derail the government’s case before trial even starts. The best case is one that never begins.
PLEA BARGAINING
If the prosecutor’s evidence is overwhelming, we will attempt to secure a negotiated plea might be your best move. Spodek Law Group negotiates to reduce charges or minimize sentencing exposure. Our criminal attorneys work to preserve your future, especially in serious cases involving mandatory minimums.
FEDERAL TRIAL
Unlike state trials, federal trials typically move faster and have less leniency. There are sentencing guidelines already in place. The burden is on prosecutors to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We fight. We protect. We win. If you decide to go to trial, we will zealously present evidence and challenge the government’s witnesses.
SENTENCING HEARING
If convicted, the judge will consider your Presentence Investigation Report (PSR), apply Federal Sentencing Guidelines (found at ussc.gov), and determine penalties. Our attorneys fight for downward departures and variances so you get the lowest possible sentence, or no sentence at all.
POST-CONVICTION & APPEALS
If there were legal errors, or insufficient evidence, Spodek Law Group can help with appeals—challenging rulings or the severity of your sentence. Whether it’s a direct appeal or post-conviction relief (e.g., filing a 28 U.S.C. § 2255 motion), we can help you explore every option.
TYPES OF FEDERAL CRIMES
WHITE COLLAR CRIMES
Fraud, money laundering, tax evasion, Ponzi schemes: these can carry big prison sentences. Prosecutors often rely on wiretaps, financial records, and insider testimony. We have experience handling these complicated cases and getting evidence thrown out of court.
DRUG CRIMES
Federal drug trafficking or manufacturing charges come with mandatory minimum sentences. According to 21 U.S.C. § 846, conspiracies to distribute can trigger severe penalties. Spodek Law Group looks at search-and-seizure issues, chain of custody, and entrapment defenses to protect you.
ORGANIZED CRIME / RICO
Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. If the federal government accuses you of being part of a criminal enterprise, it can result in broad conspiracy charges. We will find weaknesses in the prosecution’s enterprise allegations to dismantle RICO claims.
VIOLENT CRIMES
Firearms offenses under 18 U.S.C. § 922, carjacking, kidnapping—are serious. A federal conviction might result in prison terms. We can help you by ensuring every piece of evidence is challenged, focusing on your constitutional rights.
CYBERCRIMES
Charges under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act often come with extensive digital forensics. We hire the best tech experts to argue defenses like lack of intent or unauthorized user frameworks. This can often result in charges being discharged.
IMMIGRATION OFFENSES
Illegal re-entry under 8 U.S.C. § 1326, smuggling, or document fraud can lead to deportation plus prison time. The process is scary—but Spodek Law Group can defend you in federal court while coordinating any concurrent immigration proceedings. If you are facing deportation, we can help prevent it if you reach out to us.
SEX CRIMES
Violations like child pornography (18 U.S.C. § 2252) or sex trafficking can result in years behind bars. We consider every angle—lack of knowledge, digital forensics irregularities, or constitutional defenses.
TERRORISM & NATIONAL SECURITY
Providing material support (18 U.S.C. § 2339B) to terrorists is among the most serious charges – especially after 9/11. Investigations often involve classified evidence. Our attorneys know how to handle sensitive national security cases.
PUBLIC CORRUPTION
Bribery, extortion, or election offenses can destroy reputations. We focus on motives, entrapment scenarios, and the specific definitions of “official acts.”
ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES
EPA violations, improper waste disposal, Clean Air or Clean Water Act charges: the government can enforce civil or criminal penalties. Large corporate entities and small businesses alike need an aggressive defense.
PENALTIES & FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES
The Federal Sentencing Guidelines can be found at the United States Sentencing Commission (ussc.gov). They calculate offense levels, enhancements, and criminal history categories. Judges use these guidelines as a starting point—our objective is to fight for downward departures, 5K1.1 motions (if you cooperate), or variances due to personal circumstances.
BUILDING A STRONG FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE
PRE-INDICTMENT STRATEGY
Engage us early when you still suspect you have time, and there’s no investigation yet, or perhaps, the investigation is still early. If you get a target letter, we can begin negotiations before you’re charged. Sometimes this prevents or reduces charges altogether.
INVESTIGATIONS & EVIDENCE COLLECTION
We hire the best private investigators and experts. For instance, forensic accountants for white collar cases, digital experts for cybercrime, or ballistic experts for firearm charges. We firmly believe that hiring the best experts is the way to make sure you avoid legal problems. They can help prove you didn’t commit the crime.
CONSTITUTIONAL DEFENSES
We find holes in improper searches (4th Amendment), coerced confessions (5th Amendment), or a lack of counsel (6th Amendment). If evidence was seized illegally, we’ll push for suppression.
NEGOTIATIONS & TRIAL DEFENSE
Sometimes, your best strategy is a plea that avoids the worst consequences. Other times, we go to trial—questioning every witness, challenging every exhibit, and ensuring the jury sees your side of the story.
APPEALS & POST-CONVICTION RELIEF
If you lose at trial, or if there was an error, Spodek Law Group files appeals. We also handle habeas corpus (28 U.S.C. § 2255) motions to challenge wrongful convictions or excessive sentences.
WORKING WITH A FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Choosing a NYC Criminal Attorney with federal experience is key. You want someone who:
- Understands the federal rules of criminal procedure
- Negotiates effectively with U.S. Attorneys
- Has a track record of dismissals or favorable plea deals
We have 50 years of combined experience, and we are available 24/7 to discuss your situation.
CLIENT TESTIMONIAL
“The BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR!!! Todd changed our lives!”
FAQ
How Do I Know If I’m Under Federal Investigation?
Watch for subpoenas, search warrants, or contact by federal agents. If in doubt, call us.
Should I Talk to the FBI Without a Lawyer?
No. You risk self-incrimination or misstatements. We must protect your rights from the start.
Is My Case Likely to Go to Trial?
Not necessarily. Many cases resolve through pleas. But if trial is the best route, we fight vigorously.
How Long Does a Federal Case Take?
It can range from months to years, depending on complexity, motions, and trial scheduling.
NEXT STEPS
If you’re charged or under investigation, contact Spodek Law Group immediately. We can help you by analyzing the evidence, developing a strategy, and negotiating with federal prosecutors. We pride ourselves on being an award-winning law firm that never backs down.
NYC CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS you can trust.
TOP RATED. WE CAN HELP YOU.
No matter how tough the case, or how complicated the charges, our federal criminal lawyers are here to guide you.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
No recipient of content from this site, client or otherwise, should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice. The content here contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments, verdicts, or settlements. Spodek Law Group expressly disclaims liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this article. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different. Always consult an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction for legal advice.