San Diego Federal Crime Defense Attorney

Are You in Need of a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego?

Being charged with a federal crime is not the same as dealing with a your local District Attorney. That is why you need a talk to a San Diego federal crimes defense lawyer right away if you are facing a federal investigation.

Agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, and IRS investigate these offenses, and the stakes are high. Conviction can lead to long-term incarceration in federal prison, massive fines, deportation, and permanent damage to your reputation.

At jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand what is at risk. With over three decades of experience and a track record of successfully resolving difficult cases, Attorney James N. Dicks knows how to guide you through the federal system.

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Why Choose Us Over Other San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyers?

• We are available to answer your call 24/7.
• We offer a free consultation.
• Attorney James N. Dicks is a former LAPD investigator.
• Attorney James N. Dicks is a Certified California Criminal Law Specialist.
• We have successfully defended thousands of clients.
• Spanish-speaking staff is available to assist clients.
• James N. Dicks is a seven time-recipient of the Avvo Client Choice Award.
• Attorney James N. Dicks has over 30 years of criminal defense experience in San Diego courts.
• Our attorney is recognized by Super Lawyers based on peer reviews and independent research.

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Do Not Face Federal Prosecutors Alone: Get Experienced Defense on Your Side

Do not wait for charges to be filed. Early intervention can be the key to avoiding charges or achieving a favorable resolution.

If you have been contacted by federal agents, received a grand jury summons, or you believe you are under federal investigation, contact us immediately at (760) 630-2000.

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Types of Federal Crimes We Defend

White-Collar Crimes

White collar crime refers to non-violent, financially motivated crimes typically committed by individuals, businesses, or government officials in positions of trust. These offenses usually involve some form of deceit, fraud, or breach of trust and are often aimed at gaining money, property, or a business advantage.

• Wire fraud
• Bribery
• Forgery
• Counterfeiting
• Securities fraud
• Bank fraud
• Embezzlement
• Insider trading
• Healthcare fraud

Drug Offenses

Drug offenses cover a wide range of illegal activities involving controlled substances.

• Drug trafficking
• Manufacture or distribution of controlled substances

Violent Offenses

A violent offense refers to a crime that involves the use of force or the threat of force against another person.

• Gun charges
• Kidnapping
• Armed robbery
• Federal assault charges

Cyber and Terrorism Offenses

Cybercrimes are criminal offenses that involve the use of computers, networks, or digital devices to commit illegal acts.

• Computer crimes
• Identity theft
• Internet-based fraud

Immigration Crimes

An immigration crime is a violation of federal laws that control who can enter, live in, or work in the United States.

• Human trafficking
• Illegal entry
• Visa fraud

Other Offenses

Additional offense covered by federal law include:

• Tax evasion
• Art theft
• Money laundering
• Extortion
• RICO crimes

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How Federal Cases Work

Grand Jury Subpoenas, Arrests & Pretrial Investigation

Federal charges are usually the result of a long-term investigation. This may involve confidential informants, surveillance, or years of wiretaps and financial audits. Law enforcement may try to question you informally, hoping to gather information before charges are filed.

The federal process often begins with a grand jury subpoena. You may be compelled to testify or produce documents. In some cases, an arrest will follow immediately after an indictment is issued.

Knowing Your Rights

Even if you are not yet charged, you have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel. Speaking with federal agents without an attorney present is a serious mistake. Anything you say can be used against you. We can represent you during the investigations and interviews, helping you avoid charges entirely when possible.

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Navigating the Federal Court Process

It’s important to find a legal team that is experienced with the federal process.

Arraignment, Plea Negotiations, and Trial Procedure

At the arraignment, you will be formally informed of the charges and asked to enter a plea. Depending on the strength of the evidence and legal strategy, plea negotiations may take place. Federal trials are often complex, involving extensive pre-trial motions, discovery, and jury instructions governed by federal rules.

Sentencing Phase & How the Guidelines Work

If the defendant is convicted, Federal Sentencing Guidelines will apply. These rules assign offense levels and enhancements based on various factors. While these guidelines are advisory, judges rely on them heavily. We work to minimize exposure by challenging enhancements and presenting mitigating circumstances.

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Understanding Sentences, Appeals & Post-Conviction Relief

Federal sentences often include prison time, supervised release, fines, and restitution. However, a conviction is not the end of the road.

Probation, Supervised Release, and Fines

Defending on the circumstances of your case, we may argue for probation or home confinement instead of incarceration. Most sentences also include a period of supervised release, which carries its own rules and risks. Violating supervised release can result in being sent back to prison.

Appeal Rights, Sentence Reductions & Cooperating for Better Outcomes

You have the right to appeal if the court made legal or constitutional errors that resulted in an unfair verdict or an improper sentence. We also explore options for sentence reductions, including through cooperation agreements or Rule 35 motions.

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Finding the Right San Diego Federal Defense Lawyer Matters

Experience With Federal Courts, Judges & Prosecutors

Federal cases move fast. Investigations are often long concluded by the time a defendant is even aware they are a target. You must act quickly and decisively. James N. Dicks has a firm understanding of federal legal strategy and he knows how to negotiate with United States Attorneys.

Personalized Strategy vs. State-Level Defense

Federal law is complex and unforgiving. The rules of evidence, trial timelines, and sentencing are different than cases involving a local district attorney. A one-size-fits-all approach will not suffice. We tailor our strategy to the unique circumstances of your case.

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Arrested by Federal Agents in San Diego?

You cannot afford to face the federal government alone. Whether you are the subject of an investigation or have already been charged, jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to protect your rights at every stage.

Call (760) 630-2000 for a free consultation. We are ready to fight for you in federal court.

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Penalties for 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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Immigration Offenses in San Diego

Immigration enforcement has become significantly more aggressive and wide-reaching, with the federal government moving away from policies that focused on deporting individuals with serious criminal convictions and expanded enforcement to include nearly all undocumented immigrants, regardless of criminal history. ICE arrests have increased, and the use of workplace raids and detention centers has grown.

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What Clients Are Saying About Us

Very professional and knowledgeable -Txhengseng Lee (5-Star Google Review)

James is very professional and knowledgeable. He helped me for a long time in my matter and never hesitated to answer any of my questions directly. His team are the most respectful and brilliant.

I highly recommend jD Law - Auggie (5-Star Google Review)

Upon meeting JD, he took the time to listen thoroughly. Then he stated, "We're going to take care of you." He did just that. If you're looking for a qualified, competent, & knowledgeable attorney, JD is your guy. I wish there were more than only 5 stars to give to him & his team. I highly recommend jD Law to anyone looking for excellence in legal representation.

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Case Results

16 Felony Counts - Case Dismissed

A couple came in to our office accused of 16 felony counts of Penal Code Section 118(A) Perjury by false information for aid, one felony count of WI10980(C)(2) Aid by misrepresentation in the amount of over $950 and one felony count of WI14014 False statement to receive health care. Each count was a maximum of 4 years in custody, thus it was imperative to reduce the charges. We were able to reach a settlement with the San Diego City Attorney's office and have our clients pay a restitution fee to the Office of Revenue and Recovery. Once our clients satisfied that requirement, the case was completely dismissed.

Felony Resisting Officer and Harm With a Police Animal - Not Guilty; Second Count Dismissed

Our client was arrested and charged with one felony count of Penal Code Section 69 – resisting an executive officer and harming a police dog. After trial, a jury found him not guilty of Count 1, but he was found guilty of the lesser included offense of Count 1, Penal Code section 148(a)(1) resisting, delaying, or obstructing a peace officer. Count 2 was dismissed by the prosecuting attorney.

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Other Locations We Serve in California

• Bonsall
• Camp Pendleton
• Cardiff
• Carlsbad
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• Escondido
• Fallbrook
• Leucadia
• North County
• Oceanside
• Rainbow
• Rancho Santa Fe
• San Marcos
• Solana Beach
• Valley Center
• Vista

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Work With a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist in San Diego

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 highly 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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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes federal cases different from state cases?

Federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, involve federal agencies like the FBI or DEA, and are heard in federal courts with their own procedural rules and sentencing guidelines.

Should I cooperate with federal agents?

Never speak with federal agents without legal representation. Even honest mistakes can result in obstruction charges. Let an attorney speak for you.

What is a grand jury subpoena?

It is a formal demand to testify or provide evidence in a federal investigation. Noncompliance can result in contempt charges.

Can I avoid being charged if I am under investigation?

Maybe. Early legal intervention may lead to case dismissal or reduced charges before indictment.

What is the difference between probation and supervised release?

Probation is imposed instead of jail; supervised release follows incarceration and has strict rules and enforcement.

What is a federal plea bargain?

It is an agreement to plead guilty in exchange for a lighter sentence. This must be carefully negotiated by an experienced federal crimes defense attorney.

Do all federal crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences?

Not all. Many do, but a skilled attorney can sometimes argue exceptions or alternatives based on case facts.

What is a Rule 35 motion?

It allows for a sentence reduction based on substantial assistance provided to the government after sentencing.

How long do federal cases take?

The timeframe can vary, but these cases often proceed more quickly than state cases once an indictment is filed. Pre-indictment investigations, however, can last months or years.

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Meet Our San Diego Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

James N. Dicks

License Number: 132990

Attorney James N. Dicks is the founder of jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys and a highly respected San Diego trial lawyer with over 30 years of legal experience. As a Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the California Board of Legal Specialization, he is recognized for his deep knowledge of criminal defense and his ability to handle complex cases in both state and federal courts. Mr. Dicks is also a former Los Angeles Police Department investigator, giving him unique insight into law enforcement tactics and procedures. He has successfully defended thousands of clients facing charges ranging from DUI and drug offenses to serious violent crimes. Mr. Dicks is committed to providing aggressive, strategic, and personalized defense.

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