Hiring a skilled lawyer should be your priority when facing criminal charges in Missouri. An experienced Missouri federal criminal defense attorney can help defend you from overly-aggressive federal prosecutors. Likewise, they can explore case dismissal and sentence mitigation options. Speak with a Missouri federal criminal defense lawyer at the first sign of trouble. Our defense team is here for you in your time of need.
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Missouri Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
The Zoukis Consulting Group is a firm that represents clients throughout Missouri. Our Missouri federal criminal defense attorneys network has experience handling a wide range of federal criminal matters, from investigations to grand jury proceedings and jury trials. We also have a distinct track record of successfully negotiating plea bargains with the United States Attorney’s Office.
The U.S. criminal code defines many offenses as federal crimes. These include everything from fraud and counterfeiting to terrorism and drug trafficking. You will be charged in federal court if you are accused of violating federal criminal law.
In addition, you may also be charged in federal court if you are accused of committing an offense related to federal government property. For example, those charged with damaging government property or committing fraud against the government are often prosecuted in federal courts.
Missouri has two federal district courts:
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri
- U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri
If you face federal criminal charges, it is vital to seek out experienced legal representation as soon as possible. Whether you are under investigation or are charged with a crime, our Missouri federal criminal defense lawyer partners will work tirelessly to protect your rights and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.
If you or someone you know faces federal criminal prosecution, please contact our Missouri federal criminal defense lawyer partners today for a consultation.
How Federal Crimes are Prosecuted in Missouri
Most criminal offenses occur at the state level and are prosecuted by local district attorneys. These state court systems have jurisdiction to adjudicate crimes within their area of governance, whether they are general criminal offenses such as theft and assault or specific crimes like traffic violations.
However, there are some instances where the federal court system has jurisdiction over criminal matters. This may be due to either the crime’s nature or where it occurs. For example, if a crime crosses state lines and involves multiple jurisdictions, federal authorities may step in to prosecute it. Alternatively, crimes that explicitly fall under federal jurisdiction, such as those related to national security and corruption of public officials, are usually handled by federal authorities.
When deciding whether to prosecute a crime at either the state or federal level, prosecutors must carefully consider several factors such as manpower and available resources for both agencies. Thus, although most prosecutions occur at the state level today, federal involvement remains a possible outcome.
Regardless if you are facing state or federal charges, the Zoukis Consulting Group can help. Our partner Missouri federal criminal defense attorneys regularly represent clients in federal law cases. Whether you are contesting an illegal search by law enforcement or the draconian U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, we can help.
Examples of Missouri Federal Criminal Offenses
Crimes committed in the United States are prosecuted at the state or federal level. Federal crimes are written explicitly into federal law instead of state law. Federal crimes are prosecuted in federal district courts and can result in significant penalties.
There are many federal offenses, ranging from public corruption to possession of child porn. This section looks at some of the most common types of federal crimes.
The following is a list of several prevalent forms of federal offenses. Click on the links in each section to read additional information about each type of federal crime.
Federal White-Collar Crimes
Federal prosecutors can bring various federal white-collar criminal charges against a person. The most common are financial fraud, bribery, and money laundering.
However, many others are also prosecuted, such as insider trading, tax evasion, and obstruction of justice. Each of these charges carries its own potential penalties, ranging from fines to imprisonment in the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Federal white-collar crimes tend to be complex offenses. Likewise, federal prosecutors tend to lodge additional related charges to the primary offense conduct. Due to the complexity of these cases, you must retain a Missouri federal criminal defense lawyer at first sight of trouble. Early intervention is critical as your attorney can best advise you on how to proceed as the investigation unfolds.
Federal Cyber Crimes
A person can be charged with a federal cybercrime in several ways. One way is by committing a crime listed explicitly in the federal criminal code as a cybercrime.
Another way is using a computer to commit a crime not explicitly listed as a cybercrime but falling within the general category of computer crime. For example, fraudulently using a computer to obtain money or property is a computer crime, even if the fraud scheme does not involve the internet or other electronic communication.
Our defense law firm regularly represents clients charged with cases involving federal cyber crimes.
Federal Fraud Crimes
Federal fraud charges are broad in scope and apply to many financial crimes. One of the most common is mail fraud, which is when a person uses the mail system to commit a fraudulent act.
Another common charge is wire fraud, which is similar but involves using electronic communications instead of postal mail systems. These charges can be brought against individuals or businesses and carry significant penalties if convicted.
Contact a Missouri Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Today
The Zoukis Consulting Group is a leading firm specializing in federal criminal matters. Our experienced Missouri federal criminal defense attorneys have a proven track record of successfully representing clients under federal criminal investigation or charged with a federal offense.
We understand the complex nature of the federal legal system, and we know how to effectively navigate through it to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients. Whether you live in St. Louis or Kansas City, our legal team can help.
We encourage you to schedule a consultation if you or someone you love is facing a federal criminal investigation or charges. Our aggressive defense team will review your case and advise you of your legal options to decide how to proceed.
When you hire Zoukis Consulting Group, you can be confident that you are putting your case in the hands of skilled and knowledgeable Missouri federal criminal defense lawyers dedicated to achieving the best possible results.
Published May 9, 2022 by Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA | Last Updated by Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA on May 11, 2023 at 5:38 pm
