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Serious Defense Against Federal Charges

Complex financial crimes, such as bank fraud, wire fraud, and fraud committed against federal programs like Medicare or Medicaid are typically charged on the federal level. At the Law Office of Stephen L. Richards, we have extensive experience defending clients against state and federal charges brought in the Chicago area and throughout Northern Illinois.

We are equipped to fight a full range of federal charges, including:

  • Federal white collar crimes such as bankruptcy fraud, mortgage fraud, tax fraud, wire fraud and Medicare/Medicaid fraud, as well as RICO charges
  • Federal conspiracy charges
  • Federal weapons charges
  • Federal drug charges, including drug trafficking
  • Federal sex crime charges
  • Terrorism

Many federal criminal offenses are also illegal on the state level. Defendants may be charged in state court, federal court or, in some cases, both.

What Makes Federal Charges Different?

While arrests and charges on the state level often revolve around a single event, such as a large drug transaction or violent act, federal charges typically involve complex, long-term investigations. These investigations may last for years, generating thousands of documents and crafting a sophisticated story for federal prosecutors to present to a judge or jury.

Read more: What To Do If You Are Under Investigation

This means federal charges are prosecuted zealously. These charges may also be affected by strict federal sentencing guidelines. While judges are no longer legally bound to enforce those guidelines as of 2005, they are still used to inform federal sentencing decisions. This often results in severe penalties and long prison sentences for federal convictions.

The serious nature of federal criminal charges requires serious defense representation. The Law Office of Stephen L. Richards is no stranger to challenging cases with high stakes. Our lead attorney, Stephen L. Richards, has handled more than 75 felony jury trials, hundreds of bench trials and thousands of negotiations in state and federal courts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Charges

It’s crucial to understand all of your legal options when facing federal charges here in Chicago, Illinois. At Law Office of Stephen L. Richards, we have compiled the following list of frequently asked questions, which can provide some guidance:

What are the pros and cons of going to trial or pleading guilty?

Pleading guilty can be beneficial in some cases. If so, a guilty plea on one charge may allow other charges to be reduced or dropped entirely. That means you would be guaranteed a conviction, however. The benefit of going to trial is that you can avoid a conviction and a permanent record. However, it’s important to consult an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer to determine the best option for your case.

What rights and responsibilities does a federal criminal defendant have In Chicago?

A defendant has many rights, such as the right to legal representation and the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination. Defendants also have a right to a trial by a jury, which should happen reasonably quickly. These defendants are obligated to obey court orders, arrive on time for hearings and obey both courtroom etiquette and the judge’s authority. 

What common challenges should you expect with a federal criminal case?

Federal charges can be complex. There can be evidentiary issues to sort out, a complicated jury selection process and pretrial motions. Many challenges can be overcome with dedicated preparation in advance – which is why it is so important to have an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer on your side here in Chicago. 

What impact will a federal criminal conviction have on my future?

In the short term, a conviction can mean extensive fines and time behind bars. It can also lead to a permanent record, which may prevent future employment, education opportunities and certain financial opportunities – like getting a home mortgage. A Chicago federal crimes lawyer can help you understand more.

How can I cope with the stress and anxiety of a federal criminal case?

The best cure for stress and anxiety is knowledge. The more you know about your case and your legal options, the better. It is crucial to work with your Chicago, Illinois, federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Protect Your Rights When The Stakes Are High. Call For A Free Consultation.

If you suspect you may be under investigation for a federal crime or have been contacted by law enforcement, it is essential that you take prompt action to protect your interests. Speaking with an officer or investigator is rarely in your best interests. The sooner you retain experienced defense counsel, the better your chances of a favorable result.

We know that legal trouble is not confined to business hours, and neither are we. Our attorneys and staff are available 24/7 to answer your questions and protect your rights in the federal court system. To get honest answers and experienced guidance in the face of serious charges, please fill out our contact form or call 773-467-7079 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Notable Results

Accusation: Attempt First Degree Murder
Facing: 30 years in prison at 85%
Result: Post-conviction petition granted
Accusation: Solicitation of a Prostitute, Obstructing Justice, Battery
Facing: 30 years in prison at 85%
Result: Post-conviction petition granted
Accusation: Solicitation of a Prostitute, Obstructing Justice, Battery
Facing: 365 days in jail, loss of legal residence
Result: Post-conviction petition granted
Accusation: Solicitation of a Prostitute, Obstructing Justice, Battery
Facing: 365 days in jail, loss of legal residence
Result: All charges but battery dropped, one year expungeable supervision
Accusation: Solicitation of a Prostitute, Obstructing Justice, Battery
Facing: 365 days in jail, loss of legal residence
Result: All charges but battery dropped, one year expungeable supervision
Accusation: Attempt First Degree Murder
Facing: 365 days in jail, loss of legal residence
Result: All charges but battery dropped, one year expungeable supervision
Accusation: Attempt First Degree Murder
Facing: 30 years in prison at 85%
Result: All charges but battery dropped, one year expungeable supervision
Accusation: Attempt First Degree Murder
Facing: 30 years in prison at 85%
Result: Post-conviction petition granted