In the U.S., state courts decide issues of state law, and federal courts decide issues of federal law. But what happens if the laws overlap, as in the case of drugs, fraud, conspiracy, and firearms charges? These and other crimes can be charged in state court, in federal court, or in both. It’s also not uncommon for a case to start in state court but end up in federal court.
This overlap in laws and jurisdiction can have very serious consequences for defendants. Federal agents and prosecutors generally have access to more resources to support their investigative and prosecution efforts, and convictions in federal courts may result in harsher penalties than those in state courts for the same crime.
If a federal agent wants to speak to you or if you have already been charged with a serious offense, it is very important to have an experienced defense attorney who can represent you not only in state court but also in federal court. Attorney Dan Eckhart is a former federal prosecutor and federal agent who has achieved success as a defense attorney. He is not afraid to stand up to government agents and prosecutors and fight for your freedom.
How Does a Case End Up in Federal Court?
There are several ways a case can end up in federal court. Here are some examples:
- The alleged crime violated a federal statute.
- The alleged crime occurred on federal property.
- The DEA, FBI, Homeland Security, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is involved in the case.
- Federal agents are working with local officers on the case.
- Someone facing a federal charge identifies you as being involved in the crime.
- The federal prosecutor decides the crime warrants being charged in the federal system.
Why You Need a Federal Defense Attorney
How a case gets sent to the federal system is not always transparent, and defendants cannot appeal having their case assigned to federal court. However, an experienced defense attorney, who knows the key players and he federal system may be able to work out a resolution with the government or successfully challenge the evidence during a suppression hearing or trial.
Additionally, if your case starts in the state system but ends up in the federal system, an experienced federal defense attorney can stay on your case whereas an attorney with only state experience will put you at a tremendous disadvantage.
Get the Help You Need from a Skilled, Experienced Federal Defense Attorney
If you have a case in either state or federal court, it’s extremely important to get help from an attorney with success fighting charges such as drug trafficking, money laundering, racketeering, fraud, possession of child pornography, conspiracy, and firearm charges.
Attorney Dan Eckhart started his career as a drug agent with the U.S. Customs Service, then became a federal prosecutor in Orlando. He spent his career working on international money laundering, firearms, drug, and complex fraud cases. He has a record of success defending these serious charges and has earned a high degree of credibility with state and federal judges, prosecutors, federal agents, and attorneys throughout the nation.
When you are being investigated for or have been charged with a serious criminal offense, you can depend on Dan to put on the strongest defense possible. He’ll put his extensive legal experience to work defending your rights in order to obtain the best possible outcome.
GET HELP NOW from a skilled, experienced federal defense attorney.Call 407.276.0500 or submit our online form today.
