Federal and State Criminal Defense

Aggressive Defense for Federal Charges

When the federal government has invested the time, money and resources into indicting you on federal charges, you can be assured that it will pursue your case in court with utmost intensity. With significant sentencing and long-term consequences on the line, it is important that you seek the best in aggressive representation that is equipped to handle your case.
Not every attorney is ready to go toe to toe against the federal government in court. Inexperienced representation puts you at risk of losing and feeling the full brunt of the law. These cases are highly complex, and the prosecution will be thoroughly prepared after the time and energy spent to build a case against you.

Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C., in St. Louis, is ready at all times to act immediately on your behalf and to defend your rights.

How Our Experience in Federal Court Benefits Clients

The process of federal court is very different from that of state court. You need representation that thoroughly understands federal court procedures and sentencing guidelines. At Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C., we have worked extensively in the federal court system, establishing a reputation as staunch opponents of prosecutors.

We will skillfully direct your case through the maze of the federal court system. Our trial experience and success extend to federal cases in all matters, including:
  • Drug charges
  • Child porn
  • Property offenses
  • Fraud, embezzlement and other white collar crimes
  • Internet crimes
  • Weapons charges
  • Racketeering and RICO charges
  • Sex crimes

Protecting Your Rights When Facing Drug Charges

Our federal criminal defense lawyers have successfully defended against prosecutions for large-scale, drug-related cases on a federal level, from drug conspiracy charges to drug trafficking. Many of these drug-related cases involved marijuana, cocaine, meth and heroin charges, all of which carry weighty penalties. We have the ability to aggressively represent you in these matters and to protect your rights.

How Do Federal Charges Differ From State Charges?

United States citizens are expected to follow both federal laws and state laws, but these can vary significantly in how they are applied. When someone violates federal law, they may face more severe charges or penalties that could have a long-term impact on their life. These are cases that have a standing federal interest, going beyond state jurisdictions.
In some cases, there can be differences between state and federal laws that could lead to unexpected violations. For example, marijuana products are legal for recreational use in many states, but they are illegal at the federal level. Simply crossing state lines with a federally unlawful substance like marijuana can land someone in trouble.
Other examples of federal crimes include:
  • Drug trafficking
  • Money laundering and other financial schemes
  • Terroristic threats
  • Immigration issues
  • Tax evasion
  • Mail fraud
  • Securities fraud
  • Conspiracy charges
  • Bank fraud
Federal offenses also include capital crimes like murder, rape or arson, which are severe violations of federal law.
Additionally, when a crime involves federal agencies, the accused may face federal charges. Someone who is accused of violence against an FBI agent or an IRS agent, for instance, is in violation of federal law.
Three of the main federal agencies that investigate these types of crimes include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

What Is the Statute of Limitations on a Federal Crime?

It is important to note that many capital crimes do not have a statute of limitations under federal law. Charges can always be brought if there is sufficient evidence. There is no statute for murder charges, for instance.
However, there are also “non-capital” crimes under federal law, which are considered slightly less serious in nature. These generally do have a statute of limitations, which is usually around five years. It’s very important to know exactly what deadlines you have and what legal steps to take when facing federal charges.

Contact Us

We provide each client a free phone consultation to discuss his or her unique situation and to determine how we can help. To arrange a meeting, please call us today at 314-725-7777. Or you can complete the online form. We accept most major credit cards for your convenience.