Los Angeles Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Federal Crime Lawyer Serving the Greater LA Area & Clients Nationwide

Federal charges present a number of particular difficulties for a defendant. Federal investigators for the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration), ICE (Immigration & Customs Enforcement), IRS (Internal Revenue Service) and other agencies may conduct investigations that last weeks, months or even years in their attempt to gather sufficient evidence to press formal charges. They have seemingly endless resources to apply to these investigations as well as surveillance and undercover or sting operations. Once they have the evidence they need, they often move forward with a trial within only 90 days of indictment. This gives a defendant a very limited time to work with an attorney and build an aggressive defense.

Regardless of whether a federal charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, it is nevertheless a weighty concern and could have vast effects. Misdemeanors, while not as serious as felonies, could result in a fine or prison sentence. A person convicted of a felony faces much more severe consequences. A felon loses the right to vote, the right to possess firearms, the right to certain careers and the right to be in the U.S. military, among other losses of privileges. A convicted felon also faces the possibility of a large monetary fine and/or a substantial amount of time in prison.

If you have been charged with a federal crime, there is still hope for you. The penalties previously mentioned do not come into effect unless the defendent is found guilty as charged. Therefore, now is the time to take action against your charges; now is the time to defend your rights.

Fighting Federal Crime Charges

As a Los Angeles federal crime attorney who has been representing defendants since 1984, I understand what level of defense is necessary to counteract zealous efforts by highly experienced federal prosecutors to put you in federal prison. I know how to protect a client's interests even in the face of a preliminary investigation or surveillance by federal agents and can properly identify and expose violations of due process or my clients' Constitutional rights.

My offices are based in Los Angeles, but I represent clients in any federal district court in the United States. Whether it's a broadly-defined charge, such as drug trafficking, bank robbery or national child pornography charges, or narrowly-defined defined charges, such as insider trading, money laundering or child pornography, I have seen it all. I have handled federal crime charges all across the board, from antitrust violations, embezzlement and tax crimes to computer crimes and internet sex crimes. Types of fraud cases I have taken on include Social Security fraud, securities fraud and identity theft. My familiarity with these specific charges and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines help me obtain favorable results for my clients, challenging attempts by federal prosecutors to pile on unnecessary penalties or take actions that are questionable at best in their infringement upon a client's legal rights.

Federal Crime Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA

As some of the most severe charges known to mankind, federal accusations must be carefully and meticulously handled by a seasoned Los Angeles federal crime defense lawyer. While I handle federal cases nationwide, I can still devote my unparalleled attention to each and every federal criminal case I take on.

With federal cases, much more is at stake. A defendant stands to face much harsher consequences, and in some cases life imprisonment. Higher fines and much larger sentences are administered to any individual found to be offending the law at a federal level. Despite the location that your federal crime accusation occurred, it is important to call my firm. Even if your charges are based in the State of California, you still may be prosecuted according to federal laws, which can result in an even harsher statement. Get the legal defense you need – call my office today.

When you choose your federal defense attorney, you need someone you can trust. I don't make empty promises or guarantee results - no ethical attorney should. I offer straightforward guidance and uncompromising legal representation for my clients both inside and outside of the federal courtroom while keeping them well informed every step of the way. Honesty is important to me, and I will offer you realistic expectations and information that is applicable to your unique case and concerns.

Looking for a legal professional who is skilled and can fight tirelessly on your behalf? Contact Los Angeles federal criminal defense lawyer Robert Michael Helfend today.