Syracuse Federal Crimes Lawyer 

Were you charged with a federal crime in Syracuse, New York? Contact Passalacqua & Associates, LLC for a consultation at (315) 500-6425. Our Syracuse federal crimes lawyers can defend your rights throughout the entire legal process and help you work toward the most favorable resolution possible under the law. 

Our criminal defense law firm boasts over 50 years of combined legal experience, representing clients in both state and federal courts. We’ve successfully defended people accused of some of the most serious charges there are, and now we’re here to fight for you next.

Reach out to us today for more information about your best course of action. Our Syracuse criminal defense attorneys will be able to provide you with some preliminary legal guidance during your consultation. 

Why Hire Passalacqua & Associates, LLC To Defend Me Against Federal Charges in Syracuse, New York?

Federal criminal cases in Syracuse, NY, are unlike state-level offenses. They often involve lengthy investigations and aggressive prosecutors with nearly unlimited resources at their disposal. Passalacqua & Associates, LLC understands how to navigate the federal criminal justice system in cases like these and isn’t afraid to take on the U.S. government on your behalf. 

Clients throughout New York choose our Syracuse criminal defense lawyers because:

• We have decades of experience helping clients receive successful outcomes on both the state and federal levels.
• We’ll make your case our priority and keep you informed of its status at all times.
• Our attorneys prepare every case for trial and will not hesitate to go to court if that’s what’s required to achieve the best possible result for you.

Want to learn more about forming an attorney-client relationship with us? Contact our Syracuse federal crimes attorneys today to schedule a case evaluation. 

What Are Federal Crimes?

A federal crime is an offense that violates United States federal law rather than (or sometimes in addition to) state law. These cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and investigated by federal agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). 

Federal charges can arise from conduct that crosses state lines and involves matters such as federal property and national security concerns.

Some of the most common types of federal crimes include:

• Certain kinds of drug crimes, like trafficking
• Mail and wire fraud
• Tax evasion and IRS-related crimes
• Money laundering
• Bank fraud and mortgage fraud
• Federal firearms offenses
• Child pornography and sex trafficking
• Conspiracy and organized crime (RICO)
• Cybercrime and identity theft
• Public corruption and bribery

Federal investigations can last months or even years before an arrest is made. In many cases, you may not even know you’re under investigation until you’re contacted by federal agents. If that happens, do not speak with investigators until you’ve talked to an attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

How Do Federal Charges Differ from State Charges?

Federal criminal cases follow different rules, procedures, and sentencing structures than state-level cases in New York. 

The key differences include:

• Investigating agencies: Federal crimes are typically investigated primarily by federal authorities rather than state government entities.
• Prosecution: These cases are prosecuted in federal court, who usually have far more resources than local prosecutors.
• Sentencing guidelines: The federal system uses U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which are complex and can lead to long prison terms even for first-time offenders.
• Mandatory minimums: Many federal offenses carry mandatory minimum prison sentences that judges are required to impose.

This system is substantially different from its equivalent within the state, so it’s essential to work with a lawyer who has experience in federal court. A criminal defense attorney familiar with federal rules of evidence and procedure can give you the best chance at minimizing or avoiding penalties.

What Are the Penalties for Federal Convictions in Syracuse, NY?

The penalties for a federal conviction depend on various factors, including your criminal history (if applicable) and whether violence or large financial losses were involved. However, generally speaking, federal penalties are often more severe than those for state crimes.

Potential consequences can include:

• Lengthy prison sentences in federal facilities
• Massive fines that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars or more
• Asset forfeiture 
• Probation 
• Permanent criminal record

In some cases, a conviction can result in decades (or even a life sentence) in prison. However, federal judges do have discretion, and a respected defense lawyer can often argue for mitigating factors that reduce your sentence. It’s not impossible that you could have your charges dismissed altogether as well, in certain circumstances.

Collateral Consequences of a Federal Conviction

A federal conviction can continue to affect nearly every part of your life long after you’ve served the sentence imposed by the court. These collateral consequences can be long-lasting and often more damaging than the immediate penalties.

Some of the most common consequences of a federal conviction include:

• Employment barriers: Many employers hesitate or even refuse to hire applicants with criminal records, especially for positions that require professional licenses or government clearance.
• Loss of civil rights: For example, you may lose the right to vote, serve on a jury, and own a firearm after a felony conviction.
• Professional and business licensing issues: Federal convictions can disqualify you from holding and renewing licenses in fields like healthcare, finance, real estate, and law.
• Housing difficulties: Landlords often conduct background checks and may deny housing to individuals with criminal records.
• Immigration complications: Non-citizens can face deportation and other restrictions on future citizenship.
• Reputation damage: The stigma associated with a federal conviction can harm your standing in the community and your personal relationships.

The federal government’s power and resources make these cases incredibly serious. Having a seasoned defense lawyer in your corner can help you avoid not just imprisonment, but these life-altering effects as well.

Defending Against Federal Criminal Charges in Syracuse

Federal prosecutors are highly trained, and they rarely bring a case unless they believe they can win it. Still, that doesn’t mean their evidence is flawless. Many federal cases rely on extensive digital surveillance and large paper trails that can be challenged in court.

At Passalacqua & Associates, LLC, we will carefully evaluate the government’s evidence and build a strong defense around your specific circumstances. 

Potential strategies might include:

• Challenging illegal searches or seizures that violated your Fourth Amendment rights
• Exposing procedural or evidentiary errors by federal investigators
• Arguing that you lacked criminal intent (a key element in many federal charges)
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or a favorable plea deal
• Presenting mitigating evidence at sentencing to minimize penalties

It’s key to contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible if you’re facing federal charges. The sooner our trial attorneys get involved, the more options we’ll have to protect your future.

How a Syracuse Federal Crimes Lawyer Can Help You With Your Case

Federal charges are prosecuted aggressively, and the process moves fast once an indictment is filed. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can guide you through every step and work to protect your rights from the start.

A qualified Syracuse federal crimes attorney can help by:

• Investigating your case: Your lawyer will review every piece of evidence the government intends to use against you.
• Challenging the prosecution’s case: A defense attorney can file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
• Negotiating with federal prosecutors: Your lawyer can communicate directly with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to explore agreements that may reduce your charges or penalties.
• Building a strong defense strategy: Your attorney will tailor a defense plan based on the specific facts and circumstances of your case, as well as the tendencies of the applicable local court.
• Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will present your defense clearly and persuasively before the judge and jury and work to create reasonable doubt.

Federal prosecutions are often relatively complicated, and the stakes are high. With the right legal representation, however, you have a far better chance of avoiding severe penalties and protecting your long-term freedom.

Schedule a Consultation With Our Syracuse Federal Crimes Attorneys 

When you’re charged with a federal crime, your entire future may depend on the quality of your defense. The prosecution will have extensive resources on their side; you deserve the same level of skill and commitment to protect you.

At Passalacqua & Associates, LLC, our Syracuse federal crimes lawyers fight for our clients and help them effectively respond to their charges. We’ll stand by you from the moment of your arrest until your case is resolved, guiding you through every stage and ensuring your rights are never overlooked.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation. We’re ready to fight for your freedom as best as we possibly can.