At Jennifer Horwitz Law, clients facing federal charges receive clear guidance, reliable communication, and committed advocacy from start to finish. You work directly with an attorney who understands how federal agencies build cases and what it takes to protect your future.
Why Choose Us?
- 25 years defending clients in federal courts
- Personalized case strategies with direct attorney access
- Strong record managing federal investigations
- Clear, compassionate support during high-stakes situations
Seattle Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
Federal criminal cases bring higher stakes, deeper investigations, and prosecutors with extensive resources. If you have been charged or believe you are under federal investigation, acting early helps protect your rights and position your case for the best possible outcome. This guide explains how federal charges work, how they differ from state cases, and the steps you should take immediately.
What counts as a federal crime?
A federal crime is any offense that violates federal law, occurs on federal property, or involves conduct that crosses state lines. Federal charges are serious because investigators often build extensive evidence long before a suspect becomes aware of an investigation.
Common reasons a case becomes federal include:
- Violations of the United States Code
- Crimes investigated by federal agencies
- Offenses involving interstate activity
- Crimes occurring on federal land
- Conduct that affects national interests or federal programs
How are federal crimes different from state crimes?
Federal crimes are violations of federal law investigated by federal agencies and prosecuted by the United States Attorney, while state crimes involve violations of state statutes handled by local prosecutors.
Who investigates federal crimes?
Federal agencies typically involved include:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Drug Enforcement Agency
- Department of Homeland Security
- United States Customs and Border Patrol
- Internal Revenue Service
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
Who prosecutes federal crimes?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the Department of Justice through United States Attorneys. Each district has its own United States Attorney who determines priorities based on directives from the President and Attorney General. These offices receive substantial resources and often focus on developing strong, long-term investigations.
Common examples of federal crimes
Federal cases often arise from conduct Congress has chosen to regulate at the national level. Examples include:
- Drug trafficking and large-scale distribution
- Illegal possession or sale of firearms
- Tax evasion and financial offenses
- Bank fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering
- Crimes that cross state borders
- Kidnapping or robbing federally insured banks
- Crimes occurring on federal land or involving federal property
Why does early involvement matter in federal cases?
Early defence is essential because federal agencies often gather evidence, secure warrants, and use confidential investigative methods before making initial contact. Acting quickly helps protect constitutional rights, prevent self-incrimination, and shape the defence strategy before charges are filed.
Key reasons to get counsel immediately:
- Investigators may already have substantial evidence
- Interviews and searches pose risks without representation
- Early guidance protects your Fifth Amendment and Fourth Amendment rights
- Timely action helps avoid common mistakes in federal investigations
- Early negotiation and mitigation can influence eventual outcomes
How do federal sentencing guidelines work?
Federal sentencing is guided by a structured system that considers the type of offense and the defendant’s criminal history.
Steps in how sentencing is calculated
- Determine the offense of conviction.
- Assign the corresponding offense level.
- Calculate criminal history points from past sentences.
- Place the defendant into a criminal history category.
- Use the guideline table to find the advised sentencing range.
- Apply adjustments for aggravating or mitigating circumstances.
- Judge considers all factors before selecting a final sentence.
Although the guidelines are advisory, they strongly influence outcomes and include limited room for judicial deviation.
What should you do if you are under federal investigation?
Becoming aware of a federal investigation is a serious moment and requires immediate action.
Important steps include:
- Do not speak with investigators without representation
- Contact a qualified criminal defence attorney immediately
- Avoid sharing information with others about the case
- Document any contact you receive from federal agents
- Begin preparing for potential search warrants or subpoenas
How Jennifer Horwitz Law supports your federal case
With more than 25 years defending clients in federal court, Jennifer Horwitz provides steady guidance, thoughtful analysis, and dedicated advocacy during high-stakes situations. Clients receive:
- Protection during interviews, searches, and warrants
- Review of all evidence with strategic motion practice
- Sentencing mitigation and guidance through federal guidelines
- Prepared advocacy at trial or negotiation stages
- Compassionate support during difficult decisions
Jennifer Horwitz Law serves Seattle and the surrounding areas, including King County, Bellevue, Issaquah, and Sammamish.
Contact Our Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are under investigation or facing federal charges, contact Jennifer Horwitz Law today. Early representation protects your rights and can change the course of your case.
FAQs
What should I do first if federal agents contact me?
You should politely decline to answer questions and contact an attorney immediately. Speaking without guidance risks harming your defence.
Are federal prosecutors harder to negotiate with?
Federal prosecutors often pursue cases with substantial evidence and may be less flexible with plea agreements. An attorney can identify opportunities for negotiation or mitigation.
Can federal charges also be charged at the state level?
Yes. Some conduct violates both state and federal law. Prosecutors decide which jurisdiction will proceed, and in some cases both may bring charges depending on the facts.