Bristol County Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

25+ Years Defending Clients Against Federal Crime Charges

A federal criminal conviction can have serious, long-term repercussions for your life. A criminal record will make it difficult to secure employment and housing and can affect your rights as a citizen. You may find yourself unable to obtain credit or travel freely within the United States or abroad, but you can avoid these consequences by working with an experienced Bristol County federal criminal defense attorney.

At the Law Office of Frank D. Camera, we provide experienced and knowledgeable representation to any clients facing federal criminal charges. Our experienced federal criminal defense lawyers in Bristol County have decades of combined courtroom experience, giving us the insight and skill needed to defend our clients' rights in court effectively. We understand how difficult a federal charge can be, so we work hard to ensure our clients have the best defense possible.

To learn more about how our Rhode Island federal lawyers can help you, call the Law Office of Frank D. Camera at (877) 444-1098 to request a consultation.

When and Why Should I Contact an Attorney Regarding Federal Crimes?

When contacted by a federal agency, most people do not realize they could be incriminating themselves as soon as they speak. A Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent or another agency may arrive at someone's door and inquire about a colleague, friend, or family member, reassuring them that someone else is being investigated, not them. It is also possible for them to coerce the person into providing them with information immediately, saying that they will not have any problems if they cooperate. To further the investigation, they sometimes use methods that are questionable (and potentially unconstitutional).

Before speaking with a federal agent, no matter what tactics they employ, it's important to consult with an experienced attorney. It is possible for federal investigators to use the information you provide during a meeting against you at a later time. Especially if what you say contradicts other information you give, even seemingly innocent conversations can backfire. When someone feels nervous and is being questioned, this "shading of the truth" occurs.

You might forget about the case or assume that the case has been dropped after an initial meeting with the investigator. Typically, federal prosecutors are casting a wide net in their investigations because they are collecting evidence and building their cases.

The time to seek legal counsel is now if you have had any interactions with a federal agency or if you suspect you are under investigation. You should not wait until you have been formally charged to take action, as you may unknowingly provide prosecutors with ammunition for their case. It is important to consult an attorney as soon as possible so that we can explain your rights to you and work to clear your name as soon as possible.

What Is the Difference Between Federal Crimes and State Crimes in Rhode Island?

While a federal crime may automatically sound more severe than a state crime, the difference between these two typically comes down to jurisdiction. In other words, the difference between a state crime and a federal crime is whether an alleged crime occurred within the federal government's or the state government's jurisdiction.

For example, many Internet-related crimes, such as child pornography, fall within the federal government's jurisdiction because federal agencies regulate the telecommunications network. Likewise, those accused of defrauding others over the phone or by mail are also charged with federal crimes.

Sometimes crimes fall into the federal government's jurisdiction simply because they allegedly occurred across state lines. For example, someone may be charged with kidnapping by the federal government if they allegedly brought the victim across state lines.

Lastly, a federal crime may be charged for any offense allegedly occurring on federal property. If, for example, a crime occurs in a national park or a federal government building, then a federal crime charge may follow.

What Are the Different Types of Federal Crimes?

When it comes to federal crimes, there are a few different categories. These categories may appear similar or the same as many state crimes because jurisdiction is the primary difference between federal and state crimes.

Our Bristol County federal criminal defense attorneys handle federal charges involving the following issues:

• Violent crimes
• Drug crimes
• Property crimes
• White collar crimes
• Internet crimes
• Kidnapping
• Mail fraud and wire fraud

If you are facing federal crime charges, reach out to our experienced federal criminal defense attorneys in Bristol County to learn more about how we can help.

Penalties for Federal Crimes

If someone is convicted of a federal crime, the severity of their sentence depends on the severity of the crime.

As is the case with state crimes, there are also federal misdemeanors and felonies. A federal misdemeanor may be punished by up to 12 months in jail, while a federal felony conviction may be punished with life in prison or even death.

Although the death penalty is rarely sought and reserved for only the most severe criminal charges, it’s a factor anyone charged with a federal capital crime must consider.

Contact Our Rhode Island Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Today

You can learn more about your legal options during a consultation with one of our Bristol County federal criminal defense attorneys. By having this important discussion, you can have a better understanding of what you’re accused of, what’s at stake, and how you may be able to mitigate or beat your charges.

If you want to speak with someone who can help, contact the Law Office of Frank D. Camera online today to request a consultation with our Bristol County federal criminal defense lawyers.