What are the Differences Between Being Charged with a Federal Crime and Being Charged with a State Crime in Nashville?
If you violate a state law, then you will be charged in state court, while a federal crime is prosecuted by the federal government. Violating a federal law is usually a more serious offense, resulting in one or more federal agencies investigating the matter.
While federal and state crimes come with collateral consequences, the sentencing guidelines for a federal crime are typically more severe. Federal crimes are considered more serious since they threaten national interests. Given that your present freedom and future endeavors hang in the balance, avoiding a conviction should be your number one priority.
Serious charges call for retaining the services of the legal team at Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC. No matter the charges brought against you, our Nashville federal crimes lawyers are ready to defend your rights.
Why are Federal Crimes Punished More Severely Than State Level Crimes?
National Interests are at Stake
Acts of terrorism may encompass assassinations, bombings, kidnappings, hijackings, and other violent behavior. Depending on the circumstances, terrorism may be charged as a federal or state-level crime. Terrorism will likely be charged at the federal level if it violates federal law or threatens national security. However, domestic terrorism is considered any act intended to intimidate civilians or coerce the government. It is typically charged as a state offense.
Federal Agencies Investigate Federal Crimes
The federal government has vast resources, so if you are charged with a federal crime, an investigation will be conducted by one or several federal law enforcement agencies. These agencies are all overseen by the Department of Justice. Each agency employs thousands of employees, with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) having approximately 30,000 special agents alone.
Stricter Sentencing Guidelines
The penalties for federal crimes are governed by the federal sentencing guidelines. Established by the United States Sentencing Commission (USSC), sentencing guidelines take into account an offender’s criminal history, the type of offense, and any mitigating or aggravating factors. Each offense is given a base-level rating (there are 43 levels). Federal judges must adhere to the minimum sentence length specified in the federal sentencing guidelines, which means that you have a better chance of getting a reduced sentence in state court.
Whether you are facing federal or state-level charges, at Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, we are dedicated to providing a strong defense to our clients. In state court, we have the ability to negotiate a plea deal with an assistant district attorney (DA) to help you obtain a reduced sentence. At the federal level, our Nashville federal crimes lawyers will challenge evidence presented by the prosecution to protect your interests. Helping you navigate the federal court system to protect your civil liberties is at the heart of what we do.
Contact Our Nashville Federal Crimes Lawyers
Whereas being charged with a state offense should always be taken seriously, federal crimes are governed by federal sentencing guidelines. Given the severity of punishment, it is crucial that you hire experienced counsel no matter where your case is being tried. At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, we are committed to helping our clients maintain their freedom. To learn more or schedule your free consultation, contact us online or by phone at your earliest convenience.