Federal Criminal Law

Navigating Federal Investigations: Search Warrants and Undercover Operations

Navigating Federal Investigations: Search Warrants and Undercover Operations

When facing a federal criminal investigations, understanding the tools employed by federal agents is vital to mounting an effective criminal defense. Learn about search warrants and related techniques, such as delayed-notice warrants and mail covers, and familiarizing yourself with undercover investigations and their guidelines from a federal criminal defense lawyer.

How the Feds Investigate Criminal Cases

How the Feds Investigate Criminal Cases

Federal criminal defense lawyer discusses federal crime investigations and law enforcement in the United States. By delving into the roles and responsibilities of various federal agencies, prosecutorial processes, task forces, and initiatives, readers will gain an understanding of how federal crimes are investigated, prosecuted, and addressed across different domains.

Federal White Collar Crime: The “Non-Imprisonment Defense” in White Collar Crime Cases

Federal White Collar Crime: The “Non-Imprisonment Defense” in White Collar Crime Cases

Rule 32 of the Securities Exchange Act—the “Non-Imprisonment Defense” provides that a defendant who violates an SEC rule or regulation but proves he had “no knowledge of such rule or regulation” is not subject to imprisonment. In United States v. Fishoff, the Third Circuit analyzes and applies Rule 32 for the first time.

Federal Sentencing: Aggravated Role Adjustment Per §3B1.1

Federal Sentencing: Aggravated Role Adjustment Per §3B1.1

When the federal government prosecutes criminal organizations, it will seek to obtain higher sentences for the defendants who are in leadership and managerial roles in the organization. This guide examines the factors impacting whether an upward adjustment for an aggravated role is merited.

Federal Sentencing: How to Obtain a Mitigating Role Offense Level Adjustment Pursuant to §3B1.2

Federal Sentencing: How to Obtain a Mitigating Role Offense Level Adjustment Pursuant to §3B1.2

An overview of guideline §3B1.2 (Mitigating Role), which can reduce the offense level based on the defendant's role in the offense. In federal court, convincing the judge that the defendant was a minimal or minor participant can shave several months off of the sentence.

Federal Motion To Suppress: Fifty-Six Minute Traffic Stop Not Unlawfully Prolonged—Drugs Not Suppressed in Federal Case

Federal Motion To Suppress: Fifty-Six Minute Traffic Stop Not Unlawfully Prolonged—Drugs Not Suppressed in Federal Case

Federal law relating to traffic stops—specifically, the legal requirements for prolonging traffic stops without violating the Fourth Amendment. To extend the stop beyond tasks tied to the initial mission are completed or should have been completed, the officer must have objectively reasonable and articulable suspicion that illegal activity had occurred or was occurring. 

Federal Motion to Suppress: Third Circuit Affirms District Court's Motion to Suppress Firearm and Upholds Fifteen-year Mandatory Sentence under ACCA

Federal Motion to Suppress: Third Circuit Affirms District Court's Motion to Suppress Firearm and Upholds Fifteen-year Mandatory Sentence under ACCA

Third Circuit ruling on law regarding (1) arrests vs. investigatory stop in a firearm arrest; and (2) whether federal conspiracy conviction counts as predicate offense under ACCA mandating 15-year mandatory minimum