Dillon Federal Crime Attorney

Protecting Your Rights and Freedom Against Federal Crime Charges in Dillon

Dillon is a small town located in Summit County, Colorado, with an intimate community that values privacy. When a member of the community is accused of a federal crime, it can send shockwaves through the town. The consequences of being charged with a federal crime can upend any individual’s life. That’s why, if you’re facing federal charges in Dillon, you should not hesitate to consult an experienced Dillon criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights, reputation, and privacy.

Whitaker & Penix, LLC is led by esteemed defense attorneys Kylie Whitaker and Ehren Penix, two skilled legal advocates with an established track record of successfully protecting the due process rights of the accused. Whitaker & Penix, LLC proudly holds an A rating from the Better Business Bureau, with our trial lawyers having been recognized by Super Lawyers for providing clients with outstanding legal service.

We offer a free initial consultation—call us at (970) 368-0602 today. Your future deserves the attention of a dedicated legal ally.

What Are Federal Crimes?

A federal crime is a criminal offense that violates United States federal law. Unlike state crimes, which are prosecuted under individual state laws, federal crimes fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government and are prosecuted in federal courts.

The most fundamental aspect of federal crimes is that the crime violates federal law, either outlined in the United States Code or established through federal regulations. Federal crimes may involve the following actions:

• Interstate commerce: Many federal crimes involve activities that impact interstate commerce, even if indirectly. This connection allows the federal government to assert jurisdiction. For example, drug trafficking across state lines or white-collar crimes affecting national markets.
• Federal property or agencies: Crimes occurring on federal property, such as national parks or government buildings, automatically fall under federal jurisdiction. Offenses against federal agencies, like assaulting a federal officer, also constitute federal crimes.
• National security: Crimes that pose a threat to national security, such as espionage, terrorism, or treason, are exclusively federal offenses due to their potential impact on the entire country.
• Immigration violations: Crimes related to immigration, such as illegal entry, human trafficking, or immigration fraud, are federal offenses as they involve the enforcement of federal immigration laws.
• White-collar crimes: Certain white-collar crimes, such as securities fraud, tax evasion, and corporate fraud, are often prosecuted at the federal level, especially if they have a significant impact on the national economy.

It’s important to know that some crimes fall under the jurisdiction of specific federal agencies. For instance, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) handles drug-related offenses, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigates a wide range of federal crimes.

Legal Penalties for Federal Crimes

Federal penalties are often more severe than state penalties. Federal sentences are determined by federal sentencing guidelines, which consider factors such as the nature of the offense, criminal history, and other aggravating or mitigating circumstances. Federal penalties may include substantial fines, lengthy prison sentences, and, in extreme cases, the death penalty.

Federal crimes are prosecuted under federal laws and fall under the jurisdiction of federal courts. Federal law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, or ATF, investigate and enforce federal crimes. The federal system abolished parole for offenses committed after 1987. Federal prisoners may be eligible for early release through a system of earned time credits, but the process is distinct from state parole systems.

Collateral Consequences Surrounding Federal Crimes

There are additional penalties and disadvantages that individuals may face because of a criminal conviction beyond the direct criminal penalties imposed by the court. These are known as “collateral consequences.” For federal crimes, collateral consequences can have a significant and lasting impact on various aspects of a person’s life. Some common collateral consequences of federal crimes include:

• Employment barriers: A federal conviction can lead to difficulties in securing employment. Many employers conduct background checks, and having a federal crime on one’s record may disqualify them from certain jobs or professions.
• Professional licensing issues: Individuals with federal convictions may face challenges in obtaining or maintaining professional licenses in fields such as law, medicine, finance, or real estate. Licensing boards often consider criminal convictions when evaluating an individual’s suitability for licensure.
• Loss of voting rights: Depending on the nature of the federal offense, individuals may temporarily or permanently lose their right to vote. Some states have laws that disenfranchise individuals with felony convictions.
• Housing challenges: Federal convictions can affect housing opportunities. Landlords may conduct background checks, and a criminal record may lead to rejection of rental applications or eviction from current housing.
• Loss of government benefits: Convictions for certain federal offenses may result in the loss of government benefits, such as Social Security, veterans’ benefits, or public assistance.
• Difficulty obtaining loans: Individuals with federal convictions may encounter challenges in securing loans or financial assistance. Lenders may view a criminal record as a risk factor affecting creditworthiness.

Common Defense Tactics

Federal criminal defense is highly specialized, and individuals facing federal charges in Colorado should consult with an experienced Dillon federal crime defense lawyer. Your attorney can assess the specific circumstances of your case and develop a tailored defense strategy based on federal laws and procedures. In doing so, your attorney may employ one or more of the following defenses:

• Selective or discriminatory prosecution: Argue that the defendant is being singled out based on improper factors, such as race or political beliefs, rather than legitimate law enforcement reasons.
• Fourth Amendment violations: Challenge evidence obtained through illegal searches or seizures, asserting violations of the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights.
• Insufficient evidence: Argue that the prosecution lacks enough evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, highlighting weaknesses or inconsistencies in the case.
• Challenging witness credibility: Question the credibility of witnesses, including government informants, by pointing out inconsistencies, biases, or motives for cooperation.

You Deserve Dedicated Defense After an Arrest in Dillon

Facing federal criminal charges is daunting, but Whitaker & Penix, LLC is here to guide you through. We offer unwavering support and will use our specialized knowledge and experience to help you achieve the best possible result.

Call (970) 368-0602 today and take the first step towards safeguarding your future with a no-obligation, free consultation.