If you face criminal charges in South Dakota, you should secure legal assistance as soon as possible. A South Dakota federal criminal defense attorney can assist with your defense and help develop a game plan for success. An experienced South Dakota federal criminal defense lawyer can improve your case’s outcome. Contact the Zoukis Consulting Group today for help.
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South Dakota Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are accused of a South Dakota federal crime, it is crucial to appreciate the charges and the possible penalties you may be facing if convicted. As your South Dakota federal criminal defense attorney will explain, federal crimes are typically more serious than state crimes. They are also usually punishable by harsher penalties. Contact a South Dakota federal criminal defense lawyer to start your defense.
Contact an experienced South Dakota federal criminal defense attorney immediately to discuss your case and legal options. Experienced defense counsel can help you navigate the complex federal criminal justice system and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
The South Dakota Federal Criminal Prosecution Process
Most criminal prosecutions occur at the state level in municipal or state courts. These courts have jurisdiction over any criminal matter within the state, and they are responsible for hearing misdemeanor and felony cases.
However, certain types of crimes fall under the exclusive purview of federal authorities. For instance, the U.S. Constitution reserves areas such as national security and interstate commerce to the federal government. While federal law enforcement agencies conduct these instigations, they are prosecuted in federal courts.
Additionally, crimes crossing state lines can become federal cases if they attract federal prosecutors’ interest. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota.
Common Federal Crimes in South Dakota
No two criminal defendants are alike. Even if charged with the same crime, their backgrounds and individual circumstances dictate how to approach their case.
Some broad categories of federal crimes are property crimes, drug charges, and white-collar crimes. Each type of crime has its unique features, which we explore below. We hope you find this information helpful if you are learning about criminal law or are already familiar with the different types of federal offenses.
Federal crimes are some of the more serious offenses that a person can commit. Federal law enforcement investigates these cases, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys try these matters in federal courts.
We’ve outlined the most frequent types of federal criminal offenses below. You can learn more about each federal crime by clicking on the below links.
Federal Theft of Trade Secrets
Theft of trade secrets is a federal crime punishable by up to ten years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The crime occurs when a person knowingly steals, or intends to steal, a trade secret from another person or company. Trade secrets include anything from a formula or recipe to a customer list or sales strategy.
To prove that a person committed theft of trade secrets, federal prosecutors must show that the person stole or intended to steal a trade secret, that the trade secret was confidential, and that the trade secret was valuable. Federal prosecutors don’t need to show that the person intended to harm the trade secret’s owner.
The theft of trade secrets is a serious crime that can have a lasting impact on the victim. Speak with an experienced South Dakota federal criminal defense attorney if you are accused of this crime. Your attorney will protect your rights and develop a strategic defense to the charges.
Federal Sex Crimes
The federal government prosecutes several different types of sex crimes. These crimes range from possessing child pornography to sexual assault. The punishments for federal sex crimes vary depending on the severity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history.
The federal government typically prosecutes the most serious sex crimes. These crimes can include sexual assault, child pornography, and sex trafficking. The punishments for federal sexual offenses are often very severe, typically involving prison time and significant fines.
Criminal defense attorneys who handle sex crime cases will often work with various experts to build a strong defense. Experienced South Dakota federal criminal defense lawyers know how to use these experts to develop a strong defense and secure the possible outcome for their clients.
Contact an experienced South Dakota federal criminal defense attorney today if you are charged with a federal sex crime. They can help you understand the charges against you and work to develop a strong defense. You can ensure that your rights are protected with their help.
Federal Embezzlement Charges
Federal embezzlement is defined in 18 U.S.C. § 641 as the wrongful taking or withholding of property of the United States by a government official or employee. Embezzlement is either a misdemeanor or a felony. A conviction can result in federal imprisonment and fines.
To prove embezzlement, prosecutors must show:
- The defendant was entrusted with property owned by the United States
- They knowingly and willfully converted that property to their use
- The value of the property was more than $1,000
Federal prosecutors don’t need to show that the defendant intended to harm the United States. Simply converting government property for personal gain is enough to constitute embezzlement.
If you are facing embezzlement charges, it is vital to seek the advice of an experienced South Dakota federal criminal defense attorney. A conviction for federal embezzlement can have serious consequences, including imprisonment and fines. An experienced criminal law lawyer can evaluate the evidence against you and develop a strong defense.
Contact a South Dakota federal criminal defense lawyer today to discuss your embezzlement criminal case.
Speak With a South Dakota Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Today
It is essential to seek an experienced attorney if you are under federal criminal investigation or charged with a federal crime. Your criminal defense lawyer can provide legal advice on your case. Likewise, remember that all communications with your attorney and their law office are confidential.
Our partner defense lawyers regularly practice law in state and federal courts across South Dakota. For example, we regularly defendant clients arrested for federal drug possession across the state, including in Rapid City, Black Hills, and Sioux Falls, SD. They have extensive criminal defense experience in many practice areas.
The Zoukis Consulting Group’s skilled and knowledgeable South Dakota federal criminal defense lawyer partners provide clients with the best possible representation. We have a record of success defending federal cases and work tirelessly, ensuring the protection of your rights.
Contact a defense law firm today to schedule a one-hour initial consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. Our rising star super lawyers are here to help.
Published May 9, 2022 by Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA | Last Updated by Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA on Mar 26, 2023 at 1:44 am
