Have you been charged with a federal crime? Federal prosecutions are extremely serious legal matters with lifelong consequences. Call Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C. at (843) 620-1100 for a confidential consultation with a federal criminal defense lawyer.
We provide high-level federal defense representation nationwide. Leading a dedicated federal defense team, Elizabeth Franklin-Best has decades of experience in complex, high-stakes cases. When your liberty, livelihood, and future are at risk, you need a legal team that knows how to respond. We have the skills and the resources to build a strong defense in your criminal law matter.
Why Choose Elizabeth Franklin-Best to Help Me if I’m Facing Federal Criminal Charges?
Going up against the federal government can be overwhelming. Federal prosecutions have unique rules, prosecutors, and penalties compared to state courts. The U.S. government has significant resources and can leverage its weight to secure a conviction.
Choosing the right federal criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make. Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C., stands out because:
- Attorney Franklin-Best has been recognized by the South Carolina Public Defender Association as “Public Defender of the Year.”
- We bring deep knowledge of federal procedure, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, and constitutional issues.
- We have a proven track record in matters investigated by federal authorities and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential case review with our trusted criminal defense attorneys. We can sort through your legal issues and walk you through the federal criminal process.
What Is a Federal Crime?
A federal crime is any offense that violates federal law. Federal jurisdiction may be triggered by:
- Conduct that crosses state lines
- Crimes involving federal agencies or property
- Offenses uncovered by federal investigations
- Matters that affect interstate commerce
- Violations of federal regulatory statutes
You can be investigated or charged by so-called alphabet agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, and others. In most federal criminal cases, federal prosecutors must show sufficient evidence to proceed by indictment or criminal complaint before a federal magistrate judge.
How Are Federal Crimes Different From State Crimes?
In many situations, conduct may violate both federal and state law. Federal criminal cases differ from state prosecutions in several key ways.
Federal cases involve:
- Federal court rules and procedures
- United States Attorneys serving as prosecutors
- Federal judges with lifetime appointments
- Advisory sentencing guidelines
- Severe penalties and limited diversion options
Federal crimes are generally considered more serious. Federal sentences typically involve lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and supervised release.
State crimes, by comparison, are prosecuted by local or state authorities and typically proceed through the state court system. Penalties vary widely and may include probation, county jail, or state prison.
We Handle a Wide Range of Federal Crimes
Federal law includes hundreds of criminal statutes. Our firm has extensive experience representing individuals accused of serious federal offenses, including:
- Mail and wire fraud
- Health care fraud
- Securities fraud
- Money laundering
- Tax evasion
- Computer crimes and hacking
- Bank fraud and financial crimes
- Child exploitation offenses
- Drug trafficking and distribution
Many federal cases are built over months or years before charges are filed. These federal criminal investigations can quickly escalate, resulting in grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, and thorough examinations of phones and computers.
What Are the Penalties in Federal Criminal Cases?
Sentencing at the federal level is typically based on the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider offense level, criminal history, relevant conduct, and enhancements.
Federal misdemeanors include three classes:
- Class A — up to one year in prison
- Class B — up to six months in prison
- Class C — up to 30 days in prison
Federal felonies are far more serious. Penalties include:
- Class E — one to five years in prison
- Class D — five to ten years in prison
- Class C — ten to 25 years in prison
- Class B — 25 years or more in prison
- Class A — life imprisonment or capital punishment
In addition to incarceration, individuals may face substantial fines, restitution orders, and the loss of civil rights, among other things.
What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Conviction for a Federal Crime?
A federal conviction does not end when the sentence is complete. The collateral consequences can continue for years and affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life.
Long-term effects of a federal conviction may include:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Loss of professional licenses and credentials
- Barriers to housing and financial services
- Ineligibility for federal benefits or student aid
- Social stigma and reputational harm
- Firearm ownership restrictions
- Immigration consequences, including removal or denial of reentry
- Permanent criminal record accessible during background checks
Non-citizens can face immigration consequences. Many federal convictions are grounds for deportation or mandatory detention.
At Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C., our goal is to safeguard your future, your career, your family, and your life outside of the courtroom.
What Defenses Are Available in Federal Criminal Cases?
Being accused of a federal crime does not mean you will be convicted. The government must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and that burden is the highest in the law.
Potential defenses may include:
Violations of Constitutional Rights
We carefully investigate whether federal agents violated the Fourth, Fifth, or Sixth Amendments through unlawful search, seizure, interrogation, or detention.
Suppression of Evidence
If evidence was obtained illegally, we challenge its admissibility in court. A successful motion to suppress can significantly weaken or even defeat the prosecution’s case.
Lack of Intent or Knowledge
Many federal statutes require proof of intent. Demonstrating that you lacked knowledge or intent to commit a crime can be a powerful defense.
Mistaken Identity or False Allegations
We analyze witness credibility, investigative methods, and forensic evidence to expose errors or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
Entrapment
If the government induced a person to commit a crime they were not otherwise predisposed to commit, entrapment may be a valid defense.
Duress or Coercion
Some individuals engage in certain acts only due to threats or coercion. This can form the basis of a legal defense.
Every federal case is unique. Our approach will be tailored to your situation, the charge, the evidence, and your goals. Whether we negotiate a favorable resolution or prepare for trial, we are focused on protecting you at every stage.
Before trial, we will scrutinize venue and guideline enhancements, retain the right experts, and develop mitigation aimed at variances. Collateral issues, such as immigration, licensing, assets, and forfeiture, will also be addressed to safeguard both present and future interests.
What to Do if Federal Agents Contact You
If agents call or show up at your home or job, stay calm, ask for their names and business cards, and let them know your lawyer will follow up. You don’t have to answer their questions, give a recorded statement, or “clear things up” on the spot—and you shouldn’t without counsel.
Don’t agree to a search, and don’t delete texts, emails, or files. You don’t want to create new problems for yourself. If you get a subpoena or a “target” or “subject” letter, reach out to us right away. Early legal guidance can prevent avoidable mistakes, protect your rights, and set the tone for what happens next.
We’ll step in, communicate with federal agents on your behalf, and help you make informed, safe decisions.
How a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
Federal cases move quickly, and the government often has a head start after months of investigation. Having the right attorney levels the playing field. An experienced lawyer can step in and handle every aspect of your case so you are not navigating the legal system alone.
An attorney can assist by:
- Investigating the allegations and identifying weaknesses in the government’s case
- Reviewing warrants, search procedures, and constitutional issues for possible suppression of evidence
- Preparing you for interviews, proffers, and hearings
- Negotiating plea agreements, cooperation agreements, or immunity deals when appropriate
- Developing a strategic defense theory tailored to the facts and charges
- Retaining experts in forensics, accounting, digital evidence, medicine, or other disciplines
- Filing motions to exclude evidence, dismiss charges, or limit damaging testimony
- Preparing exhibits, witness examinations, and arguments for federal trials
- Advocating for leniency, alternative sentences, or downward departures if a conviction occurs
- Handling post-conviction matters, appeals, and sentencing relief
In a federal case, there are no small decisions to be made. Every choice you make can have wide-ranging consequences. Working with an attorney can give you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.
Contact Our Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Today for a Consultation
Federal prosecutions are complex. If you are facing federal charges for white collar crimes (e.g., identity theft or mail fraud), drug trafficking, firearm offenses, or otherwise, the decisions you make now will shape your future.
Elizabeth Franklin-Best, P.C., has a reputation for providing high-caliber criminal defense representation. We will protect your constitutional rights and fight for results ranging from complete dismissal to strategic negotiation of a plea bargain, depending on the evidence presented.
Your freedom, reputation, and future are too important to leave to chance. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We are ready to stand with you and defend you at every step of the federal criminal justice process.