Federal Criminal Defense Practice Areas
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Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing federal charges is not the same as facing state charges. Federal prosecutors have more resources, federal sentencing guidelines are unforgiving, and a conviction can mean years in federal prison with no parole. Gabriel Diaz Criminal Defense Law Firm represents clients across North Carolina in federal courtrooms, from the initial investigation through trial, sentencing, and appeal. Below is an overview of the federal charges we defend.
Drug Offenses
Drug Trafficking
Federal drug trafficking charges carry mandatory minimum sentences that can range from five years to life in prison, depending on the drug type and quantity involved. These cases often begin with wiretaps, confidential informants, or multi-agency task force investigations. We scrutinize every step of the government’s case, from the legality of the stop or search to the reliability of informants, to build the strongest possible defense.
Possession with Intent to Distribute
A possession with intent to distribute charge turns on the government’s ability to prove intent, usually through circumstantial evidence like quantity, packaging, scales, or cash. We challenge the evidence used to infer intent and work to have improperly obtained evidence excluded from trial.
Firearms Offenses
Firearm Trafficking
Federal firearm trafficking charges target individuals accused of buying, selling, or transporting firearms illegally, including straw purchases and interstate transfers. These cases carry significant prison exposure and often overlap with other federal investigations. We build defenses around intent, knowledge, and the government’s chain of evidence.
Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking or Crime of Violence
Under federal law, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence carries a mandatory consecutive sentence, separate from the underlying offense. We fight to show the firearm was not connected to the alleged conduct, which can mean the difference between years added to a sentence and a dismissed charge.
Possess a Machinegun
Possession of a machine gun or an illegally modified automatic weapon is prosecuted aggressively under federal firearms law. These cases often hinge on technical questions about how the weapon functions and whether it meets the legal definition. We work with firearms experts to challenge the government’s classification of the weapon.
Felon in Possession of Firearm / Firearm by Felon
A prior felony conviction can turn simple firearm possession into a serious federal offense. We examine whether the prior conviction actually qualifies as a predicate offense, whether the firearm was knowingly possessed, and whether the search that led to the firearm being found was lawful.
Alien in Possession of Firearm / Firearm by Alien
Federal law prohibits certain non-citizens from possessing firearms. These cases require a defense attorney who understands both federal firearms law and immigration status, since a conviction can carry consequences far beyond prison time. We build defenses that account for both.
Immigration-Related Federal Offenses
Illegal Reentry by Alien
Illegal reentry after removal is one of the most commonly charged federal offenses in North Carolina. Sentencing depends heavily on prior criminal history and the reason for the prior removal. We work to challenge the validity of the underlying removal order and negotiate for reduced sentencing exposure.
Visa Fraud
Visa fraud charges involve allegations of providing false information to obtain immigration benefits. These cases require careful review of the documents and statements at issue, since intent to deceive is often the central question the government must prove.
Marriage Fraud
Marriage fraud allegations claim a marriage was entered into solely to gain an immigration benefit. We defend these cases by presenting evidence of a legitimate marital relationship and challenging the government’s assumptions about intent.
Harboring Alien
Harboring charges accuse an individual of concealing, transporting, or shielding an undocumented individual from detection. These cases often involve family members, employers, or landlords caught up in broader immigration enforcement actions. We work to show the absence of the criminal intent the statute requires.
White Collar and Financial Crimes
Money Laundering
Federal money laundering charges accuse a person of disguising the source of illegally obtained funds. These cases involve complex financial records and often accompany other federal charges. We bring in forensic accountants when needed to challenge the government’s tracing of funds.
Financial Fraud
Financial fraud charges cover a wide range of conduct, including bank fraud, wire fraud, securities fraud, and investment schemes. These cases are built on documents, financial records, and witness testimony. We take the time to understand the full financial picture and identify weaknesses in the government’s evidence.
Theft of Government Property
Theft of government property involves allegations of taking or misusing federal funds, benefits, or property. These charges can arise from benefits fraud, contractor fraud, or misuse of federal grants. We focus on the government’s proof of intent and the accuracy of loss calculations, which directly affect sentencing.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement charges accuse an individual of misappropriating funds or property entrusted to their care, often in an employment or fiduciary setting. We examine the financial records closely and challenge the government’s claims about intent and the actual amount involved.
White Collar Crime
Beyond the specific charges above, our firm defends clients against the full range of federal white-collar allegations, including tax fraud, healthcare fraud, and public corruption. These cases are document-heavy and require an attorney who can read a balance sheet as well as a statute.
Human Trafficking Offenses
Human Trafficking
Federal human trafficking charges carry severe penalties and intense scrutiny from prosecutors and the public alike. These cases require a defense built on a careful, fact by fact review of the evidence and the credibility of the government’s witnesses. We approach these cases with the seriousness they demand.
Labor Trafficking
Labor trafficking charges allege forced labor or services obtained through coercion. These cases often involve business owners, employers, or contractors accused of exploiting workers. We examine the working relationship at issue and challenge the government’s characterization of coercion or force.
Why Choose Gabriel Diaz Criminal Defense Law Firm
Federal cases move differently than state cases, and they demand an attorney who knows the federal system inside and out, from grand jury proceedings to the federal sentencing guidelines. Gabriel Diaz Criminal Defense Law Firm has the experience to guide clients through every stage of a federal case, with a defense strategy built around the specific facts of each client’s situation.
If you or someone you love is under federal investigation or facing federal charges in North Carolina, contact Gabriel Diaz Criminal Defense Law Firm today for a confidential consultation.
If you’re facing criminal charges, contact Gabriel Diaz Criminal Defense Law Firm today to discuss your case and learn how we can protect your rights.