Posted on October 13, 2023 in Hate Crime Statute

In defining a hate crime, the term “hate” refers to a bias against a group of people with similar defining characteristics.

In a recent year, there were a reported 7,200 incidents of hate crimes. Hate crimes can include a number of acts, from physically assaulting someone because of their ethnicity, setting a group home for people with disabilities on fire, or vandalizing a place of worship.

If you have been charged with a hate crime, you need to speak with a Chicago criminal defense attorney who can represent your interests.

What is a Hate Crime?

A hate crime is often a violent crime, such as vandalism, assault, murder, arson, or any threat to commit such crimes. A federal hate crime is a prejudice-motivated act that is based upon certain actual or perceived characteristics of the victim.

The motivation for the majority of hate crimes was based on race or ethnicity, accounting for 64.8% of the hate crimes in 2021. Sexual orientation accounted for 15.6%, and religion accounted for 13.3% of all reported crimes.

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 Posted on September 30, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Finding yourself arrested for a federal crime you did not commit can be an overwhelming and highly distressing experience. However, it is essential to remember that an arrest does not automatically mean guilt; you still have the right to fight for your innocence, which is best done with the help of a seasoned Chicago criminal defense attorney. Here are some crucial steps to take if you find yourself wrongfully accused and subsequently arrested.

Seek Legal Representation

Your first move should be to contact a criminal defense attorney with experience in federal criminal law. In the American legal system, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Having an experienced Chicago criminal defense attorney by your side will safeguard your rights and ensure you do not accidentally provide information that could harm your case.

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

While it may be very tempting to defend yourself, the authorities can use anything you say as evidence against you. Always remember that you have the right to remain silent from the moment you are arrested and from then forward. It is in your best interest to avoid discussing any details of your case with anyone except your attorney, which includes both in jail and on social media. This precaution will prevent statements from being used against you.

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 Posted on September 27, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Federal arrests are often the culmination of extensive investigations, some taking years. Federal agents invest countless hours in surveillance and meticulously sift through numerous documents to put together the evidence needed. Before executing an arrest, these agents typically obtain a warrant from a federal district judge in a federal district court. Unlike local arrests, federal arrests are not impromptu events.

If you or someone you know is the subject of a federal arrest warrant, it signifies that the government has compiled substantial evidence and is now prepared to initiate formal prosecution. Consequently, it is imperative to treat a federal arrest warrant with utmost seriousness and contact an experienced Chicago criminal defense attorney immediately.

What Transpires During a Federal Arrest?

Before the arrest, the federal agents executing the arrest will have applied for and obtained an arrest warrant in a federal district court. The warrant will name the person who can be arrested, specify a place and time for the arrest, and list the crimes the person is accused of.

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 Posted on September 16, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Any type of federal charge or conviction is typically more serious than state charges and has substantial penalties attached to it. Federal drug offenses are no different.

If you face federal drug charges, securing the representation of an experienced Chicago federal criminal defense lawyer is imperative. Without an attorney who has represented clients facing federal charges, you are more likely to be subject to conviction and stiff penalties. However, there are many other things you should know concerning federal drug offenses. With competent representation, you can fight a federal drug charge or even seek a plea agreement for a reduced sentence.

Federal Drug Charge Types

At the federal level, these convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences. But keep in mind that convictions for federal drug crimes often result in more than just a prison sentence. You could be stripped of any federal benefits, your right to vote or own firearms, and your property. It may also be difficult to find employment and even housing in the future.

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 Posted on September 12, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Whether or not you knew charges were coming, being formally charged with a white collar crime can be shocking. You may not know what to do or whom to turn to for help. However, the best thing to do is to contact an experienced Chicago white collar crime defense attorney as soon as possible. 

In fact, even if you think you are being investigated for a crime or will soon be charged with a crime, you should contact an attorney. The sooner you can have one on your side, the better the outcome of your case. White collar crimes can be complicated to defend as they require intensive research and facing federal prosecutors.

Defining White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes are sometimes referred to as corporate crimes as they typically occur in a corporate setting. They are non-violent crimes commonly committed by business or government professionals for financial gain. A sociologist coined the term white collar crime in 1939, which referred to crimes committed by respectable professionals with high social status. According to the FBI, white collar crimes are characterized by any or all of the following:

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 Posted on August 29, 2023 in Federal Crimes

In the United States federal justice system, a grand jury serves a vital role in determining whether there is sufficient evidence to bring criminal charges against an individual. Today, we will further explore the purpose of a federal grand jury, shedding light on its functions and contribution to the pursuit of justice. Understanding the importance of this institution is crucial for safeguarding individual rights and upholding the principles of due process, which are the rights entitled to all individuals facing charges in the United States. If you are facing federal charges, contact an attorney you can rely on to protect your interests from being trampled upon.

Investigative Function

One of the primary purposes of a federal grand jury is to investigate potential criminal activity. The grand jury’s role is to examine the evidence and determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed. The grand jury reviews the evidence presented by the prosecutor and decides whether to issue an indictment, which initiates formal criminal charges.

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 Posted on August 22, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Kidnapping is a serious crime that damages personal freedom and safety. The Federal Kidnapping Act, also known as the Lindbergh Act, was enacted to combat kidnappings that cross state lines and provide the government with federal authority in cases where state laws may not be enough to deal with the problem. We will aim to highlight key aspects of the Federal Kidnapping Act, its purpose, where it is relevant, and the potential consequences for those involved in kidnapping offenses. If you are facing federal kidnapping charges, you could be facing decades in prison if you are convicted. To fight these grave charges, contact a criminal defense attorney right away to begin the essential process of building your defense to fight the charges.

The Purpose of the Federal Kidnapping Act

Enacted in 1932 and named after the infamous kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh Jr., the son of the aviator Charles Lindbergh, the Act was aimed at addressing the challenges posed by kidnappings that cross state lines, making sure that such cases could be handled at the federal level. The Act's primary objectives include stopping kidnapping offenses, protecting those kidnapped, and providing widespread federal enforcement of kidnapping laws.

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 Posted on August 15, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Federal racketeering charges are serious offenses involving engaging in criminal activity patterns. Today, we will discuss what constitutes federal racketeering charges, the laws governing them, and the potential consequences of being convicted of these offenses. Contact a criminal defense attorney right away if you have been charged with racketeering, as not doing so will put you at significant risk of a negative case outcome.

Understanding Racketeering Charges

Racketeering charges fall under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), a federal law aimed at combatting organized crime. RICO targets individuals or groups involved in a pattern of criminal activity, referred to as a “criminal enterprise.” Such activities typically include offenses like money laundering, illegal gambling, drug trafficking, bribery, extortion, and fraud.

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 Posted on August 10, 2023 in Drug Crimes

The distribution and sale of counterfeit prescription drugs pose a significant threat to public health and safety, which is why the practice is considered to be a federal drug offense. Today, we will explore the legality of the sale of fake prescription drugs, paying particular attention to the role of interstate commerce in the legal framework and potential implications. Of course, if you have been charged with a federal drug crime, contact a criminal defense lawyer sooner rather than later to ensure you can fight these very serious charges.

The Connection Between Federal Law and Interstate Commerce

Selling counterfeit prescription drugs falls squarely within the jurisdiction of federal law in the United States due in part to the involvement of interstate commerce. The Constitution of the United States grants Congress the power to regulate commercial activities occurring between the states. Since counterfeit drugs are often produced, distributed, and sold across state lines, the federal government has the authority to address these activities under the Commerce Clause. Consequently, selling counterfeit medication, regardless of origin or destination, can lead to federal criminal charges.

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 Posted on July 28, 2023 in Federal Crimes

Murder is typically a crime under state law, with each state having its own statutory framework and criminal justice system. However, in certain circumstances, murder can cross into federal jurisdiction. Today, we will look at the factors that determine when murder becomes a federal crime and the legal implications associated with federal murder charges. For federal murder charges, you need to hire a criminal defense attorney, not afraid of the federal government and its resources as you fight to secure your exoneration.

Crossing State Lines

One key factor that may elevate a murder case to the federal level is when the crime crosses state lines. Under the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution, the federal government has jurisdiction over criminal cases that involve a substantial connection to interstate commerce. Suppose a murder involves crossing state or national borders, such as taking place during the commission of a federal offense. In that case, the federal government may assert jurisdiction to prosecute the individuals involved.

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