Twenty years ago, identity theft was a blip on the radar. Fast-forward to today, and identity theft is a major concern for individuals and businesses alike.

Tax crimes are not a joking matter. While they are non-violent in nature, they involve withholding money from the government and are therefore penalized harshly.

While several states have adopted lenient stances towards marijuana and even legalized the drug for recreational adult users, it remains illegal on the federal level. In fact, even if you are using marijuana in a “legal” state, you may still be found guilty of violating federal law.

Every state has its own laws regarding forgery. However, if you mail or carry a forged document across states lines, you could face federal charges. Federal crimes are prosecuted more severely than state level offenses.

RICO is named after The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. The act was initially created to stop the “mob” spreading crime and corruption across the country. If you are accused of committing a RICO crime, you need competent legal help immediately.

A plea bargain is an arrangement between a prosecutor and a criminal defendant where the defendant enters a lesser plea in exchange for more lenient sentencing. Since federal law involves different rules and procedures, the plea-bargaining process is a little different than what occurs on the state level.

One of the reasons it is imperative to hire a federal criminal defense lawyer if you face federal charges is because the sentencing process differs from that of the state criminal justice system. Under the federal sentencing guidelines, judges are advised to dole out certain punishments. This means that if you are charged with a federal crime, you will face certain penalties based on the crime (quantity and type of drug if a drug crime) and your criminal history.

When it comes to drug crimes, trafficking is one of the worst offenses you can be charged with. A federal offense, drug trafficking is punishable by lengthy incarceration in a federal prison as well as costly fines. Whether you are accused of trafficking marijuana, fentanyl or methamphetamine, you are in serious trouble. However, with the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Florida, you may be able to have the charges dismissed, or have the sentence against you reduced.

In addition to carrying a stigma, drug crimes are often punishable by heavy fines and long prison terms. Many drug crimes, such as possession and intent to distribute, are prosecuted on the state level. However, depending on the quantity, type, location, and whether you cross state lines, you could face federal charges. Regardless of whether you are arrested for a federal or state crime, if you are charged with intent to distribute, or any other drug offense in Florida, you need experienced legal help.

One of the tools the government uses to discourage criminal activity is asset forfeiture. This means, if you arrested, the federal government may seize assets or proceeds used to facilitate the commission of a crime. Basically, law enforcement can take your money, cars, and other property if it can show that you acquired them illegally, or used them in the furtherance of criminal activity.