This is the first post in a series meant to discuss the handling of federal criminal charges in Phoenix and elsewhere in Arizona. I am writing about this topic due to the fact that many who face federal charges are not prepared for the differences between that process and the one they would face in State Court. Not knowing what to expect can lead a defendant, charged by the U.S. Government, to having false expectations as to how their matter will turn out. My goal with this series is to clear up some of the misperceptions which people have about such matters.
I will be addressing a number of topics over my coming posts. Subjects I will be looking at include:
- How The United States District Court, for the District of Arizona differs from State Court
- What an accused person must understand about grand juries and the indictment process
- The types of offenses commonly charged in Federal Court
- Issues an Arizona defendant should understand about the Federal Sentencing Guidelines
These are important topics to understand for several reasons. First, it is important to understand that a different set of laws and procedures will apply to Arizona defendants who face charges in Federal Court. Second, many are surprised to learn about the one-sided nature of the indictment process used in Federal proceedings. Third, while there are a variety of crimes included in Title 18 of the U.S. criminal code, there are some which are charged more frequently. Finally, the Federal Sentencing guidelines create a structure for punishment which is not similar to State Court. I will explain these points further in my coming posts.
I cannot stress enough that one charged by the U.S. government should contact a Phoenix federal crimes lawyer immediately. Many lawyers do not practice in Federal Court so it is crucial that you find an attorney licensed in our District. I also represent defendants in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson and others throughout the state.
