San Diego Federal Crime Defense Attorneys

Arrested for a Federal Offense in San Diego?

Charges filed in federal court are far more dangerous than a state crime. The federal court system is manned with career prosecutors who are highly dedicated and experienced—backed up by the seemingly unlimited resources of the federal government. Beyond all of that, the conviction rate in federal court stands at about 85%, which are, to say the least, tough odds for the accused.

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Why Should You Hire Our Firm?

• We have more than 30 years of legal experience.
• Our founding attorney is a former police officer detective.
• We offer counsel from a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist.
• We have tried hundreds of criminal cases.

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Examples of Crimes That Can Lead to Federal Charges

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Tax Evasion in San Diego

The federal justice system, federal prosecutors, and judges have little sympathy for those who avoid paying their share of taxes. Unfortunately, an honest mistake by you or your accountant could lead to serious legal trouble. Tax evasion does not only mean you did not pay taxes; the crime involves the act of misrepresenting your financial affairs in order to reduce your taxable income. It may include reporting less profit than what was made or overstating deductions. If income is reported incorrectly or if you failed to file taxes in a timely manner, you could be facing federal charges of tax evasion.

Tax evasion is a serious federal crime and the penalties that are imposed could be extensive. You may face time in federal prison for up to 5 years and be required to pay a fine as high $500,000. You cannot afford to go through without seasoned legal representation. jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys has helped countless clients fight their federal charges, including cases of tax evasion. Our San Diego criminal defense lawyer has faced the federal court on many occasions and is known for being a highly professional defender. Our extensive knowledge of tax law has proven to be a great advantage in keeping clients out of harm's way.

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Art Theft in San Diego

Art theft has become a serious problem with the annual losses estimated at close to $6 billion. In fact, it has become such an issue that the FBI has dedicated a team of 14 special agents specifically focused on art theft cases. If you are facing charges for art theft, you need to take legal action to protect your rights today. Without an experienced San Diego theft crime attorney on your side, you may find yourself up against severe penalties.

If convicted, you are looking at the following consequences:

• A lengthy sentence in federal prison
• The forfeiture of your personal assets
• Thousands of dollars in fines
• Additional penalties depending on the property stolen

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Immigration Offenses in San Diego

Illegal immigration is one of the fastest growing federal offenses in the U.S. A noncitizen who is facing criminal charges in the United States can be permanently barred from entering the states in the future if not successfully defended. If you are not yet a U.S. citizen and have been charged with a crime, you could face deportation. If you are in the U.S. on a visa or green card, your status is now in jeopardy. In addition, if you were planning on applying for U.S. citizenship in the future, you will be denied if you are convicted of a criminal offense.

There is no doubt that if you are an immigrant, federal law allows for you to be removed you from the country if you are proven to be connected to criminal activity. It is extremely important that the attorney you choose to represent you has a thorough understanding of both criminal law and immigration law. These issues overlap and create an extremely technical and complex area of law. Many immigrants who plan to stay in the United States and create a life for themselves find their hopes dashed after facing criminal charges.

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What Are Penalties for Various Federal Crimes?

The penalties imposed in federal court will vary based upon the crime itself. In most cases, years in a correctional facility will be imposed, and there is often legal action taken to recover monies through forfeiture of assets, seizure of property and bank accounts. Once the case is concluded, the convicted person may be required to pay restitution far beyond the fines imposed in sentencing.

• Drug Crime Penalties
  There are mandatory minimum sentences for drug crimes, including 10 years for drug trafficking cases that involve manufacturing, distributing or possession with intent to distribute in cases involving more than one kilogram of heroin. This penalty is for a first offense.
• Immigration Crime Penalties
  For immigration crimes, such as harboring aliens with the intent to commit a crime, the penalty includes three years in state prison as the minimum.
• Gun Crime Penalties
  Gun crimes vary in the mandatory minimum; however, as an example, if you are found to possess a short-barreled shotgun in the commission of a crime, there will a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years added to the sentence.
• Sex Crime Penalties
  Sex crimes against children include a minimum of 15 to 30 years behind bars.

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Work With a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist

If you or someone you love has been arrested for a federal crime, or are currently under investigation, you should contact jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys at (760) 630-2000. As a board certified criminal law specialist, Attorney James N. Dicks is exceptionally qualified to represent you and has a great understanding of how to defend against federal crimes, even when the case may appear hopeless. We have won many cases other firms turned down or in which a lawyer advised a client to plead guilty. Don't take chances—get a top San Diego federal crime defense lawyer on your side immediately.

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