Clearwater Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Have you learned of a federal criminal investigation against you or have you already been arrested or charged with a federal crime? Haworth Legal can fight for your constitutional rights. The most important step you can take right now to protect your freedom, your future, and your reputation is to retain an experienced federal criminal defense attorney.
Because federal crimes are complex, the laws, regulations, potential punishment, and even the way these charges are investigated and prosecuted are very different from state crimes. Often involving crimes that cross state lines or involve government agencies and higher amounts of money, offenses charged at the federal level require a straightforward and aggressive approach tailored to the individual matter.
Federal litigation is complicated and involves a close look at the evidence against you, a deep understanding of the laws and statutes, and leveraging the knowledge and resources of a skilled lawyer.
Haworth Legal is ready to help. Call (727) 610-8114 or reach out online for reliable 24/7 availability and prompt, honest communication from our federal criminal defense attorney in Clearwater. We assist clients throughout Pinellas County.
Navigating Federal Courts & Procedures in Clearwater
Clearwater, as part of the Middle District of Florida, operates under specific federal judicial procedures that require careful navigation. Whether your case involves an investigation by the FBI, DEA, or IRS, each agency brings unique protocols that our team is prepared to handle. Our familiarity with the local federal courts allows us to anticipate challenges and prepare effective responses.
Our strategy involves working diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and interact with federal prosecutors to potentially mitigate charges. This proactive approach often positions us favorably during negotiations, while also laying the groundwork for a strong defense if the matter proceeds to trial.
Federal Charges We Handle in Florida
Though many crimes are dealt with at the state level, various offenses draw the federal government’s attention.
Our firm has experience with numerous crimes tried at the federal level, including, but not limited to:
- Drug crimes, including trafficking and possession of a large amount of illegal substances
- Fraud, including bank, wire, mail, healthcare, tax, and credit card fraud
Medicare, Medicaid, and other government program fraud - Conspiracy
- Criminal contempt
- Sex crimes, such as manufacturing or distributing child pornography
- Extortion
- False statements to federal agents under 18 U.S.C. § 1001
- Identity theft
- Counterfeiting and forgery
- Money laundering, embezzlement, and racketeering
- Hobbs Act offenses
- Obstruction of justice
- Perjury
- RICO violations
- Unlawful employment of undocumented workers under 8 U.S.C. § 1324a(a)(1)(A)
- Computer and internet crimes, including phishing
Several of the crimes mentioned above violate both state and federal laws and can thereby be tried at either the state or federal level. The charges will most likely be processed by the federal court system when the illegal activity takes place in multiple jurisdictions or on federal land. Additionally, the federal government handles cases when someone is arrested by federal law enforcement or when a case involves a large criminal enterprise.
There are also crimes that explicitly violate federal laws established by the U.S. Congress. These include crimes like tax evasion and immigration violations. Such offenses are always dealt with in federal court.
Understanding the Consequences of Federal Convictions
Federal convictions carry significant penalties, often more severe than state-level offenses. Penalties might include long prison terms, substantial fines, and prolonged supervision after release.
Beyond legal penalties, federal convictions can have substantial personal and professional repercussions, including loss of employment opportunities, challenges in obtaining housing, and restricted rights. Our firm works diligently not only to challenge the evidence and protect your rights but also to minimize these lasting impacts.
Protecting Your Rights in Federal Investigations
If you become aware of a federal investigation, it is vital to act quickly. Federal agents often gather evidence and build cases over time, and early intervention by knowledgeable attorneys can significantly affect the outcome. Our team is familiar with the investigative tactics used by agencies such as the FBI and DEA, allowing us to craft a proactive defense strategy.
In many instances, it is possible to negotiate with prosecutors before charges are formally filed, potentially mitigating the severity of the charges or even preventing them altogether. We guide you through this process with an emphasis on protecting your rights and freedoms at every step.
Why Choose Haworth Legal?
We’re dedicated to protecting your rights with a strategic, personalized approach
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Extensive Legal Experience
With years of experience handling thousands of cases, Michael Haworth applies detailed analysis and strategic planning to defend your case effectively.
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Personalized Representation
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Accessible Consultations
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Around-the-Clock Availability
The First Step Act
In a step toward correctional and sentencing reforms, President Trump signed the First Step Act (FSA) of 2018 (P.L. 115-391) into law in 2018. Among other things, the Act is meant to reduce the population in federal prisons through recidivism-reducing programs and activities. These programs, amended under 18 U.S.C. § 3624(b), provide eligible federal inmates up to 54 days of credit for every year of their imposed sentence to be put toward their pre-release custody.
Though the First Step Act makes those who have been convicted of certain crimes, including terrorism, human trafficking, espionage, certain sex and violent crimes, multiple firearm possession charges, and high-level drug crimes, ineligible, those convicted of such offenses may earn other benefits for program completion.
To learn if you or a loved one are eligible for the First Step Act, and what options may be available, contact Haworth Legal or call (727) 610-8114 to schedule a free in-person or virtual consultation.
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"Very Professional"Choosing Mr. Haworth as my lawyer was the best decision I ever made. He was able to get my charges dropped clear my name and is still working for me on my family court process.- Jonathan D.
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"Calm and smooth, incredibly grateful."I am now completed with the program and done, moving forward with my life and it couldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for Michael.- Javi J.
