Seattle Federal Defense Lawyer

Facing federal charges can be one of the most overwhelming and high-stakes legal situations you will ever encounter. Federal crimes carry harsh penalties, aggressive prosecution, and complex legal procedures that require a strong defense. A federal defense lawyer in Seattle, WA, with Puget Law Group can protect your rights and build a powerful strategy to challenge the charges against you.

With 150 years of combined experience, our team has successfully defended individuals in high-profile and complex federal cases. Whether you are facing fraud, drug trafficking, or white-collar crime charges, we have the experience to fight back. Speak with a Seattle criminal defense lawyer today to discuss your case and start preparing a solid defense.

What Makes Federal Crimes Different From State Crimes?

Federal crimes differ from state crimes in that they involve violations of U.S. federal laws and are prosecuted in federal courts rather than state courts. Federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) conduct investigations, often resulting in more complex cases with harsher penalties. 

While state crimes typically involve offenses within a single jurisdiction, federal offenses often cross state lines or impact national security, leading to prosecution at the highest level.

State Crimes

State crimes are prosecuted under Washington state law and handled by local courts rather than federal courts. These offenses typically include acts such as theft, assault, and DUI, which violate state-specific statutes and are prosecuted by county or district attorneys. 

Penalties for state crimes vary widely based on Washington’s sentencing guidelines, but they generally involve fines, probation, or imprisonment in state correctional facilities.

Federal Crimes

Federal crimes involve violations of the U.S. criminal code and are prosecuted in federal courts, where sentencing follows strict federal guidelines. These cases often carry harsher penalties than state crimes, with mandatory minimum sentences and limited parole options. Many federal offenses involve financial fraud, drug trafficking, or crimes that affect interstate commerce, making them subject to more extensive investigations and prosecution.

Federal crimes are classified under 18 U.S.C. § 3559, which categorizes offenses by severity, from Class A felonies, punishable by life in prison or the death penalty, to Class C misdemeanors, which carry minor penalties. If you are facing federal charges, working with your Seattle federal defense attorney with Puget Law Group is essential to building a strong defense against aggressive federal prosecution.

Common Federal Charges Defended in Seattle

Federal prosecutors in Washington aggressively pursue cases involving crimes that cross state lines or violate U.S. laws. These offenses often involve lengthy investigations by the FBI, DEA, and BATFE. Below are some of the most frequently prosecuted federal charges in Seattle:

White-Collar Crimes

White-collar crimes involve financial deception, fraud, and other non-violent offenses that often result in significant monetary losses. These crimes are aggressively prosecuted under federal law, with penalties including heavy fines, asset forfeiture, and lengthy prison sentences. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1341, federal authorities prosecute a range of financial offenses, from wire fraud to securities violations. Here are some of the most common white-collar charges prosecuted at the federal level:

• Wire fraud 
• Securities fraud 
• Identity theft 
• Healthcare fraud 
• Embezzlement 
• Bank fraud 
• Money laundering 

Drug Trafficking

Federal drug charges apply when controlled substances are transported across state lines or involve large-scale distribution, and, as outlined under 21 U.S.C. § 841, individuals accused of manufacturing, distributing, or possessing drugs with intent to sell face harsh penalties. 

Authorities use wiretaps, undercover operations, and informants to gather evidence in drug trafficking cases. If you are facing federal drug charges, your Seattle drug crime defense lawyer can examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures and challenge any unlawful search and seizure practices. 

Firearms Offenses

Federal gun laws are strictly enforced, with severe penalties for illegal possession, trafficking, or using a firearm in a crime. Unlawful acts under 18 U.S.C. § 922 make it a federal offense to possess a firearm as a convicted felon, carrying a firearm without proper licensing, or trafficking weapons across state lines. Convictions for federal gun charges often result in mandatory minimum prison sentences.

Cybercrimes

Crimes involving computers, data theft, and online fraud are prosecuted at the federal level when they affect victims in multiple states. Fraud and related offenses under 18 U.S.C. § 1030, known as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA), criminalizes hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. 

Federal agencies such as the FBI and Secret Service investigate cybercrimes using advanced forensic technology. 

Federal Sentencing Guidelines and Potential Penalties

Federal crimes follow structured sentencing guidelines that dictate penalties based on the severity of the offense and the defendant’s prior record. Unlike state courts, federal judges have less discretion in sentencing, as they must adhere to U.S. Sentencing Commission guidelines. Various factors, including aggravating circumstances and cooperation with authorities, may influence the final sentence. Below are some of the key aspects that impact federal sentencing:

• Base offense level – Every federal crime is assigned a base offense level that determines the starting point for sentencing calculations. More severe offenses have higher base levels.
• Criminal history category – Defendants with prior convictions face harsher penalties under the federal point-based system for past offenses. Repeat offenders often receive longer sentences.
• Sentencing enhancements – Certain factors, such as using a weapon during a crime or causing substantial harm, can significantly increase sentence length.

Federal convictions often come with lifelong consequences. This might include restrictions on employment, housing, and voting rights. Without a strong defense strategy, you could face maximum sentencing under strict federal laws. 

Speak with a Federal Defense Lawyer in Seattle, WA with Puget Law Group for Help Today

Federal charges carry serious consequences, and a conviction could impact your future, freedom, and reputation. If you are facing federal charges, you need an aggressive legal defense tailored to the complexities of the federal court system. 

Contact a federal defense attorney in Seattle, WA to learn more about Puget Law Group, discuss the specific circumstances of your case, and explore your options for a compelling defense strategy.