Why Federal Criminal Cases Need a Federal Attorney

 Posted on June 13, 2019 in Federal Crimes

When charged with a federal crime such as healthcare fraud, you may understand that you need an attorney, but you may not know which type of attorney you need. Federal crimes are very different than state crimes. The case will be heard in a different court, by different judges, and the courts will have different schedules. These are important differences that will affect the outcome of your case, even if you do not yet realize it. A federal criminal defense attorney will understand the federal court system, and will not let the different procedures hurt your case.

Federal Laws Differ from State Laws

Of course, this is the most obvious difference, but it is an important one. Criminal defense attorneys are typically well-versed in the laws of their state and know how to defend against state crimes. Typically, they are not as familiar with federal law. For example, embezzlement in Illinois can be charged as either a state crime or a federal crime. If a criminal defense attorney prepares a defense according to state laws, it will have a negative impact on your case.

Federal Prosecutors Have More Time

Federal prosecutors are referred to as United States Attorneys, or Assistant United States Attorneys. One is assigned to each state or, in the case of larger states, certain areas within a state. These attorneys do not handle the immense caseload of state prosecutors, which means they have more time to dedicate to your case and build solid arguments against you. A federal criminal defense attorney however, typically also takes fewer cases and therefore, will also have more time to devote to your case.

Federal Courts Have Fewer Cases

If you are having your case heard in federal court, there is a good chance the courts will only hear your case at that time. This is because like federal prosecutors, the federal courts do not hear as many cases. This is sometimes detrimental to a case. In state court, cases are often dismissed due to the fact that the state prosecution is not ready. This rarely happens in federal court. You need a federal criminal defense attorney that understands this, and that will be ready when necessary.

Federal Courts Have Different Juries

Just like in state court, if you are facing federal charges you have the right to have your case heard by an objective and impartial jury. The juries in federal court differ from those in state court though, because they come from a much broader judicial district. As such, they are more diverse and more challenging to predict. A federal criminal defense attorney will have the experience needed to read the jury members and select those most beneficial for your case.

Get the Help You Need from a Chicago Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing federal charges, it is important you do not just hire any defense attorney for your case. You need an experienced Chicago federal criminal defense attorney. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel, we have the necessary experience and knowledge about the federal court system to successfully argue your case in court. We understand the challenges that come with trying cases in federal court, and we know how to overcome them to get you the best possible outcome in your case. Call us today at 312-629-0669 for your free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.

Source:

https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/USCODE-2011-title18/USCODE-2011-title18-partI-chap63-sec1347