St. Louis Federal Crime Attorney

Defending Clients Who Are Facing Federal Charges in Missouri

Allegations of a federal offense have the potential to change your life forever, resulting in a loss of freedom and rights. Challenging federal charges may seem daunting, particularly when you consider the resources and clout of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and other federal agencies, not to mention the experience and manpower at the fingertips of federal prosecutors.

The St. Louis federal crime attorneys at JMH Law Firm, LLC, recognize the serious nature of these charges and proceedings and use our resources and experience to protect defendants' rights inside and outside the federal courtroom. Our team has more than 60 years of criminal law experience.

Have you been accused of a federal crime? Call (314) 827-6222 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation with our federal criminal defense attorneys in St. Louis.

Federal Crime Cases We Handle

A federal crime is a criminal offense that is prosecuted under United States federal law, as opposed to state or local law. Federal crimes are violations of statutes and regulations established by the federal government, and they are investigated and prosecuted by federal law enforcement agencies.

You can learn more about specific federal crimes and the steps our legal team can take to challenge these offenses by reviewing the following subjects:

Bank Fraud

This federal crime involves defrauding a financial institution. A person may face bank fraud charges for defrauding or attempting to defraud a bank or other similar institution, even if the scheme is unsuccessful. Devising the scheme and taking a step toward its completion may be sufficient for bank fraud charges.

Child Pornography

An extremely serious offense due to the fact that it is a sex crime that can be charged on a federal level, child pornography involves the possession, creation, distribution, or sale of pornographic material depicting minors. In addition to facing imprisonment and fines, a defendant convicted of this type of offense may face lifetime sex offender registration.

Drug Trafficking

Manufacturing, selling, possessing for sale, or distributing controlled substances may fall under the category of drug trafficking. When state lines or national borders are crossed or a substantial amount of drugs are involved, federal agencies are likely to investigate and prosecute these cases.

Kidnapping

Taking and holding another person against his or her will is the basic definition of kidnapping, and if state lines or national borders are crossed or the victim is a government official, the FBI or other federal agencies may become involved. Depending on the case, a defendant may face life in prison for kidnapping.

RICO Charges

Covered under the Racketeer-Influenced Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO Act), these offenses involve organized crime and businesses that operate based on illegal activity. RICO and racketeering charges may be filed against members of alleged criminal organizations for crimes committed in connection with their operations, even if they did not carry out these crimes themselves.

Tax Fraud

Tax fraud, or tax evasion, is a federal crime that involves avoiding or attempting to avoid the full payment of taxes to the federal government. Misstating income, hiding assets, claiming false deductions, and failing to file tax returns are examples of acts that may be considered tax fraud.

Wire Fraud

Committing or attempting to commit an act of fraud using the internet, radio, or television may be considered wire fraud, one of the most serious federal crimes. If a financial institution is affected or targeted, a defendant may face up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.

Penalties for Federal Convictions

Federal charges are brought by the U.S. government and prosecuted in federal court. The penalties for federal offenses can be very serious and typically depend on the specific crime, but here’s a general breakdown of what someone might face:

• Prison Time: Federal convictions often result in time in federal prison, ranging from months to life. Some crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences that judges must impose.
• Fines: Federal fines can be extremely high, sometimes reaching into the millions. These are often based on the seriousness of the crime and any financial gain from it.
• Probation: Instead of prison, a person may be placed on probation with strict rules and regular check-ins. Violating probation can send someone to prison.
• Supervised Release: After prison, individuals usually serve supervised release, similar to probation but shorter-term. Breaking the rules during this time can result in going back to prison.
• Restitution: Defendants may be ordered to pay restitution to victims for losses they caused. This is separate from fines and goes directly to the victims.
• Asset Forfeiture: The government can take assets linked to criminal activity, like cash, cars, or homes. This often happens in drug or fraud cases.
• Loss of Rights: Convicted felons often lose rights like voting or owning firearms. These restrictions can be long-term or permanent, depending on the crime.

Difference Between State & Federal Crimes

Federal and state crimes differ in several key ways, primarily based on the jurisdiction in which they are prosecuted and the laws that apply to them. Here are the main differences between federal and state crimes:

Jurisdiction

Federal crimes are offenses that violate laws established by the United States federal government, which has jurisdiction over matters that concern the entire country. Examples of federal crimes include offenses involving multiple states, offenses committed on federal property (e.g., military base, federal government building, Native American reservation, etc.), crimes against the goverment, and terrorist acts. State crimes are offenses that violate laws enacted by individual state governments. State crimes typically fall under the jurisdiction of state and local law enforcement agencies.

Legal Codes

Federal crimes are governed by the United States Code (U.S.C.), which is a collection of federal laws passed by Congress. These laws are applied consistently across all states and territories of the United States.

However, state crimes are governed by state criminal codes, which vary from state to state. Each state has its own set of criminal laws and penalties, and these laws can differ significantly between states. State laws address a wide range of issues, including criminal offenses, family law, property law, and more.

Investigative Agencies

As we mentioned earlier, federal law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF, investigate and prosecute federal crimes. These agencies have jurisdiction nationwide. State and local law enforcement agencies, such as state police, city police, and county sheriff's departments, investigate and prosecute state crimes. They operate within the boundaries of their respective states.

Penalties

As we mentioned earlier, federal penalties can include fines, probation, incarceration in federal prisons, and parole. On the other hand, penalties for state crimes vary widely from one state to another. Each state has its own criminal sentencing guidelines, which determine the potential penalties for specific offenses. Penalties may include fines, probation, incarceration in state prisons or county jails, and parole.

Prosecution

Federal crimes are typically prosecuted by United States Attorneys, who work for the U.S. Department of Justice. Cases are heard in federal courts, with federal judges presiding over the proceedings. In contrast, state crimes are prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors, who work for the state government. Cases are generally heard in state courts, with state judges presiding over the proceedings.

Jury Selection

Federal juries are selected from a broader geographic area, usually the entire federal district. This can result in more diverse jury pools. While state juries are typically drawn from a more localized area, which may result in a jury pool that reflects the demographics of the specific jurisdiction.

It's important to note that some criminal acts can be prosecuted at both the federal and state levels, depending on the circumstances and applicable laws. In such cases, the choice of jurisdiction for prosecution may be influenced by factors like the severity of the offense and the resources available to the prosecuting authorities.

Because federal crimes differ from state crimes in many ways, it is essential for anyone facing federal charges to work with attorneys who are not only licensed to practice in federal court but who also have extensive experience dealing with federal prosecutors, federal law enforcement, and the steps needed to help accused individuals secure the most successful outcome possible when the stakes are high.

What Is a Federal Indictment?

A federal indictment is a formal, written accusation issued by a federal grand jury charging an individual or entity with a federal crime. Unlike state courts, where a prosecutor can file charges directly via a criminal complaint or information, the United States Constitution requires the government to obtain an indictment from a grand jury for federal felony offenses.

A grand jury consists of 16 to 23 citizens who meet in secret to review evidence presented exclusively by a federal prosecutor (an Assistant United States Attorney, or AUSA). During these proceedings:

• The defense is not permitted to present evidence or cross-examine witnesses.
• Neither you nor your attorney is allowed in the grand jury room.
• The standard of proof required to indict is merely probable cause—a much lower standard than the "beyond a reasonable doubt" threshold required for a conviction at trial.

If at least 12 grand jurors agree that there is probable cause to believe you committed the crime, they return a "true bill," and you are formally indicted.

An indictment is not proof of guilt, but it is a serious escalation. It means the Department of Justice has officially committed to prosecuting you. If you learn that a grand jury is investigating you or has returned an indictment against you, reach out to our St. Louis federal crime attorneys immediately to coordinate your surrender and prepare your defense.

What Happens During a Federal Investigation?

Federal criminal cases rarely begin with a sudden arrest. Instead, they are typically preceded by months—or even years—of meticulous investigation. Federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) build cases methodically.

During a federal investigation, agents utilize highly intrusive methods to gather evidence, including:

• Court-Authorized Wiretaps: Intercepting phone calls, text messages, and digital communications.
• Undercover Operations: Utilizing informants, cooperating witnesses, and undercover agents to record conversations or orchestrate controlled transactions.
• Search Warrants: Executing raids on homes, offices, and digital storage devices to seize physical and electronic evidence.
• Subpoenas: Issuing federal grand jury subpoenas to financial institutions, phone companies, and businesses to compel the production of records.

By the time federal agents make their presence known to you, they may already have accumulated a vast trove of evidence. Because of this, entering the federal system without an attorney puts you at a massive disadvantage.

Defenses Against Federal Charges

Common defenses may include:

Lack of Evidence

The prosecution must prove each element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. In many cases, it may be possible to challenge the sufficiency or reliability of the evidence. If the prosecution's evidence is weak, unclear, or circumstantial, a defense lawyer may move to have the charges dismissed or reduced.

Violation of Constitutional Rights

Federal law enforcement agencies must follow strict procedures when investigating and gathering evidence. Any violation of constitutional rights, like unlawful search and seizure, may lead to evidence being excluded from the case. This can significantly weaken the prosecution's position and, in some cases, result in the dismissal of charges.

Entrapment

Entrapment often occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. If entrapment can be proven, it may be a viable defense in federal cases, particularly in drug or conspiracy charges. This defense can be complex and typically involves showing that authorities persuaded or coerced the defendant into breaking the law.

Insufficient Intent

Proving criminal intent is critical for a conviction in many federal crimes. If the prosecution cannot establish that the defendant acted with the required intent to commit the crime, this may serve as a strong defense. For instance, a defense lawyer may argue that the defendant's actions were unintentional or based on a misunderstanding in white-collar and financial crimes.

Mistaken Identity

In some instances, mistaken identity can lead to wrongful accusations. Federal investigations often involve surveillance, informants, or undercover operations, and these methods are not immune to errors. A strong mistaken identity defense may involve challenging eyewitness accounts or pointing to gaps in surveillance or other evidence.

Coercion or Duress

If a defendant committed a crime under threat of harm or pressure, they may be able to argue that they acted under duress. This defense applies when the defendant was forced to engage in illegal conduct due to a credible threat to their safety or the safety of others. Coercion defenses are more common in cases involving violent crimes or drug trafficking.

Federal Crime FAQs

What court handles federal criminal cases in St. Louis?

Federal criminal cases in St. Louis are usually heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, which is located in downtown St. Louis. These courts follow federal procedures, which differ significantly from Missouri state court processes.

What agencies investigate federal crimes in St. Louis?

Several agencies investigate federal crimes in the area, including the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), U.S. Secret Service, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). These agencies often work together in task forces.

Can federal crimes be reduced to state charges?

In some situations, state and federal prosecutors may both have jurisdiction over a case. However, once the federal government decides to prosecute, the case usually remains in federal court. A skilled defense lawyer may sometimes negotiate for reduced charges or a more favorable resolution within the federal system.

Do I need a federal defense attorney if I’m under investigation but not yet charged?

Yes. If you suspect that you are being investigated for a federal offense, it is important to contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Early legal representation can help protect your rights and may prevent charges from being filed.

How long do federal investigations take?

Federal investigations can last months or even years before charges are filed. These investigations often involve surveillance, financial record analysis, informants, wiretaps, and other complex techniques. Many people are unaware they are under investigation until an arrest or indictment occurs.

What To Do If Federal Agents Contact You

Discovering that you are the target of a federal probe is an overwhelming and terrifying experience. Federal agents are highly skilled interrogators who frequently use psychological pressure to get individuals to incriminate themselves. If an agent Knocks on your door, hands you a target letter, or serves you with a subpoena, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:

• Remain Polite but Silent: You have a constitutional right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. Explicitly state, "I want to cooperate, but I will not answer any questions without my attorney present."
• Do Not Attempt to Explain Your Way Out: Many individuals mistakenly believe that if they just explain their side of the story, the agents will understand and drop the matter. In reality, federal agents often ask questions they already know the answers to, trapping you into making a false statement.
• Never Lie to a Federal Agent: Under 18 U.S.C. § 1001, making a false statement to a federal agent is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison—even if you are completely innocent of the underlying crime they are investigating. Silence cannot be used against you; lying will be.
• Do Not Alter or Destroy Evidence: Deleting emails, shredding documents, or clearing browser histories after learning of an investigation can lead to separate, severe charges for obstruction of justice.
• Call JMH Law Firm, LLC Immediately: Contact our St. Louis federal crime lawyer before answering a single question or turning over any documents.

Why Hire JMH Law Firm, LLC

The seriousness and life-altering repercussions at stake in federal crime cases elevate the need for legal representation. If you or your loved one currently stands accused of any federal crime, you need to be confident when choosing the attorneys you want to fight by your side.

Fortunately, our St. Louis federal criminal defense lawyers have years of experience handling a variety of crimes in the federal court system, including federal sex crimes, and have amassed a considerable amount of skill and knowledge on how these cases are handled.

When integrated with our decades of criminal law experience, our familiarity with the federal criminal justice system allows our legal team to set our clients at ease and guide them through the process using a step-by-step approach.

We know the tactics employed by federal prosecutors and agencies, and we have the skills to negate their case in your favor. We take pride in the fact that we have spent a considerable amount of time in federal court, and we believe that our services can benefit clients facing any type of federal charge.

Contact JMH Law Firm, LLC today to get started on your defense with our St. Louis federal crime lawyer.