Phoenix Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Defending Against Federal Charges in Arizona

Certain types of crimes can be charged through the federal government, which makes it different from state charges. In the United States, the federal justice system has sentencing guidelines in place and, oftentimes, they are more serious than state sentencing guidelines. If you are facing charges in the federal court, it is imperative that you seek experienced counsel from a Phoenix federal criminal defense attorney.

If you are under investigation by federal authorities in Phoenix, AZ, call (602) 428-7104 or contact us online today to let our federal crime attorney in Phoenix fight for you!

Federal Crimes We Handle

At MayesTelles PLLC, our federal criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix handle a comprehensive range of federal crime cases, including:

• Federal drug charges
• Violent crimes
• Sex crimes
• Property crimes
• Money laundering
• Federal theft charges
• White collar crimes
• Immigration offenses
• Tax fraud
• Federal weapons charges

What Makes an Offense a Federal Crime?

A federal crime is an offense that violates laws established by the federal government of a country. In the United States, federal crimes are offenses that breach federal statutes or occur under circumstances where the federal government has jurisdiction, as opposed to state or local governments. These crimes are prosecuted in federal courts and often involve federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF.

Examples of federal crimes in the U.S. include:

• Crimes Crossing State Lines: Kidnapping, human trafficking, or transporting illegal goods across state boundaries.
• Crimes on Federal Property: Crimes committed in national parks, military bases, or other federally-owned areas.
• Federal Offenses Involving Specific Issues:
  • Drug trafficking under federal laws.
  • Bank robbery, since banks are often federally insured.
  • Counterfeiting currency.
• Crimes Involving Federal Entities: Fraud against federal programs (like Medicare or Social Security).
• Crimes of National Concern:
  • Terrorism.
  • Treason.
  • Cybercrimes targeting national security or federal systems.

State crimes are typically prosecuted under state law and occur within a state’s boundaries. Federal crimes fall under federal jurisdiction, which may overlap with state jurisdiction. In such cases, federal law often takes precedence.

Federal Sentencing & Penalties

Federal sentencing in the United States is the process by which courts determine the punishment for individuals convicted of federal crimes. The system is designed to balance fairness, consistency, and justice, taking into account the nature of the offense, the offender's criminal history, and various aggravating or mitigating factors. Sentencing is guided by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which were established by the United States Sentencing Commission to standardize punishments while allowing judges some discretion to deviate from recommended ranges in appropriate cases.

Federal sentencing considers the offense severity and the defendant's criminal history, which are combined to calculate a recommended sentencing range. Judges may impose sentences outside this range if justified by the circumstances. In some cases, federal laws mandate minimum sentences, especially for offenses like drug trafficking, firearms violations, and certain violent crimes. These mandatory minimums often restrict judicial discretion, resulting in longer prison terms regardless of mitigating factors. Conversely, defendants who cooperate with authorities or accept responsibility for their actions may receive reduced sentences.

Federal penalties can include imprisonment, supervised release, fines, and restitution. Prison sentences are often served in federal facilities, and supervised release provides ongoing monitoring after incarceration. Fines and restitution aim to hold offenders financially accountable for their actions, compensating victims or covering the costs of criminal proceedings. In all cases, federal courts weigh the goals of punishment, deterrence, rehabilitation, and public safety when determining penalties.

You need an attorney with federal defense experience if your case is being heard in federal court. Our legal team has unique experience and extensive success in federal cases. With previous experience serving as a prosecutor and judicial clerk, our team has knowledge of the process on both sides of the courtroom.

Key Factors Affecting Federal Sentencing

Federal sentencing takes into account offense severity and the defendant’s criminal history, which are used to determine a recommended sentencing range. Judges may impose sentences outside these ranges if circumstances warrant. Some offenses—including federal drug trafficking, weapons violations, and violent crimes—are subject to mandatory minimum sentences, which limit judicial discretion and often result in significant prison time. However, federal courts may consider reduced sentences for defendants who accept responsibility or cooperate with authorities during investigations or prosecutions.

Federal penalties can include imprisonment in a federal facility, supervised release, fines, and restitution. Supervised release includes conditions the defendant must follow upon release from prison, and failure to comply may result in being returned to custody. Fines and restitution are designed to hold offenders accountable for financial harm caused, compensating victims, or covering government costs. The federal court’s primary goals during sentencing include punishment, deterrence, rehabilitation, and the protection of public safety. At MayesTelles PLLC, our federal criminal defense attorneys in Phoenix advocate vigorously for our clients’ rights and seek to secure the best possible outcome under federal law.

You need an attorney with extensive federal court experience if your case is being heard in federal court. Our legal team’s background includes prior service as prosecutors and judicial clerks in Phoenix, giving us insight on both sides of the courtroom and the unique procedures of Arizona’s federal venues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Respond If I’m Contacted by a Federal Agency Regarding an Investigation?

If you are contacted by a federal agency such as the FBI, DEA, or ATF in Phoenix regarding an investigation, you should not speak to agents or answer questions without first consulting a federal criminal defense lawyer in Phoenix. Statements made to federal agents may be used against you in federal court. Politely tell officers that you wish to speak with your attorney before answering any questions. At MayesTelles PLLC, our Phoenix federal criminal defense lawyers act quickly to protect your rights and provide guidance during interviews or any law enforcement contact. Securing the assistance of a knowledgeable federal criminal defense attorney in Phoenix from the outset offers critical protection and helps prevent accidental self-incrimination during complex federal investigations.

What Can I Expect During My First Appearance in Federal Court in Phoenix?

Your initial appearance, also known as an arraignment, takes place at the U.S. District Court in downtown Phoenix. During this hearing, the judge will explain the federal charges, inform you of your rights, and address bail or detention. A federal magistrate judge may hear arguments from both sides related to pretrial release, considering factors such as the seriousness of the alleged offense, flight risk, and your ties to Phoenix or the broader Arizona community. Our federal criminal defense attorneys in Phoenix thoroughly prepare clients for all initial hearings, making sure their rights are protected and a strong defense is in place from day one. Having a team with first-hand knowledge of the Phoenix federal court system ensures you receive clear guidance and tailored representation at every critical stage.

Contact Our Federal Crime Attorney in Phoenix Today

If you’re facing federal charges, it’s crucial to have an experienced legal team on your side. Our Phoenix federal crime attorneys are ready to protect your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf. Don’t wait to take action—federal cases move quickly, and early representation can make a major difference. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the knowledgeable legal support you need during this critical time.

Let us defend you against your federal charges in Arizona. Contact MayesTelles PLLC at (602) 428-7104 today to speak with our Phoenix federal crime lawyer.