Being charged with a federal offense is one of the most
serious legal challenges someone can face. If you’ve been indicted or suspect that you are under investigation by federal authorities in Cleveland, Ohio, the time to act is now. Federal crimes carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences, massive fines, forfeiture of assets, and lasting damage to your future. The United States government has powerful investigative and prosecutorial tools at its disposal and you need equally powerful legal defense on your side.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, our federal criminal defense attorneys serve clients in Cleveland, Ohio and throughout the state with unshakable commitment, legal excellence, and tireless advocacy. Whether you're in Independence, Columbus, Oxford, or the heart of Cleveland, our team is here to protect your rights, your reputation, and your freedom.
Federal cases differ significantly from those handled in state courts. In Cleveland, Ohio, federal prosecutions typically involve months or years of investigation by agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, IRS, Homeland Security, or even the Secret Service. Once a federal indictment is filed, the case moves quickly and the penalties can be severe. That’s why choosing a federal criminal defense attorney with deep knowledge of federal law and experience in Cleveland, Ohio, courts is essential.
Common Examples of Federal Crime Cases
Federal law governs a wide array of criminal offenses. The following are among the most common types of federal charges that we see prosecuted in Cleveland, Ohio, federal court:
1. Drug Trafficking: Under 21 U.S.C. § 841, federal prosecutors aggressively pursue individuals suspected of manufacturing, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances. In Cleveland, Ohio,
drug trafficking cases often arise from multi-state investigations. Penalties can range from five years to life in prison, depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved and whether any death or injury resulted.
2. Conspiracy Charges: Many federal cases in Cleveland, Ohio, begin with conspiracy allegations under
18 U.S.C. § 371 or 21 U.S.C. § 846. Prosecutors often use conspiracy charges to sweep multiple individuals into one case. You don’t have to personally commit a crime; just agreeing to participate in a criminal scheme and taking some action in furtherance of it can be enough to be charged.
3. Mail and Wire Fraud: If someone uses the mail or electronic communications in furtherance of a fraudulent scheme, they may face charges under
18 U.S.C. §§ 1341 and 1343. These cases frequently arise in Cleveland, Ohio in connection with COVID-relief scams, insurance fraud, and investment fraud.
Penalties can reach 20 years per count and up to 30 years if a financial institution or federal disaster relief is involved.
4. Bank Fraud: Defrauding a financial institution or using deceptive means to access money or assets constitutes
bank fraud under
18 U.S.C. § 1344. This crime is taken very seriously in Cleveland, Ohio, where federal prosecutors often work closely with bank investigators. A conviction can carry up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million.
5. Money Laundering: When someone attempts to conceal the origin of money gained through illegal activity or uses it to further criminal conduct, they can be charged under
18 U.S.C. § 1956 or §
1957. Federal investigators in Cleveland, Ohio, use complex financial tracing to prosecute these crimes. Sentences can include up to 20 years in prison and forfeiture of assets.
6. Firearms Offenses: Federal gun laws are strict. It is illegal for certain individuals (such as felons) to possess firearms, and using a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime or violent offense can lead to additional charges under
18 U.S.C. § 924(c). These cases are common in Cleveland, Ohio, and convictions often carry mandatory minimum sentences of five to thirty years, served consecutively.
7. Child Pornography: Possessing, distributing, or producing child pornography is a federal crime prosecuted under
18 U.S.C. § 2252. Federal agents in Cleveland, Ohio, frequently work in conjunction with cybercrime task forces to investigate these serious allegations. Sentences often include five to 20 years in prison, depending on the nature and scope of the conduct.
8. Health Care Fraud: Fraudulently billing Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance companies can result in charges under
18 U.S.C. § 1347. In Cleveland, Ohio, healthcare fraud investigations are increasingly targeting physicians, home healthcare companies, and pharmacy operators. Convictions can result in up to 10 years in prison or more if bodily harm resulted.
9. RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act): If federal prosecutors believe someone has committed multiple crimes as part of an ongoing criminal enterprise, they may bring charges under
18 U.S.C. § 1962. In Cleveland, Ohio, RICO cases are often used to prosecute alleged gang members or white-collar schemes. Penalties include up to 20 years or life in some circumstances.
10. Illegal Re-entry After Deportation: Returning to the United States after being removed or deported is a federal offense under
8 U.S.C. § 1326. Prosecutors in Cleveland, Ohio, handle these cases frequently. Depending on prior criminal history, sentences can range from two years to 20 years in prison.
Each of these offenses carries serious penalties, and many include mandatory minimum prison sentences. But an indictment is not a conviction and with a skilled Cleveland, Ohio, defense lawyer, you have options.
Common Defenses for Federal Charges
Just because the government has filed charges doesn’t mean you’re guilty. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we explore every available defense for our Cleveland, Ohio clients, including:
- Lack of Intent: Many federal crimes require proof that you acted knowingly or willfully. If we can show that you had no intent to commit a crime, your charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- Fourth Amendment Violations: If federal agents in Cleveland, Ohio, conducted an illegal search or seizure, we may be able to have key evidence suppressed, often weakening or eliminating the government’s case.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement officers pressured or coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have committed, we may raise an entrapment defense to fight for a dismissal.
- Jurisdictional Issues: Federal prosecutors must prove that the alleged conduct involved interstate commerce or otherwise falls under federal authority. In some Cleveland, Ohio cases, this link may be weak or nonexistent.
- Duress or Coercion: If you were threatened with immediate harm unless you committed a criminal act, we may assert a duress defense, which can be especially persuasive in conspiracy-related prosecutions.
- Withdrawal from Conspiracy: If you took affirmative steps to withdraw from a criminal conspiracy before any overt act was committed, you might be shielded from criminal liability under federal law.
Additional defenses may involve mistaken identity, lack of credible witnesses, forensic challenges, or violations of your constitutional rights during interrogation or arrest. The right defense strategy depends entirely on the specific facts of your case. That’s why it’s crucial to retain a seasoned Cleveland, Ohio, federal defense attorney who will take the time to examine every piece of evidence, every witness statement, and every legal angle to give you the strongest possible defense.
What to Expect During a Federal Investigation in Cleveland, Ohio
Not every federal case begins with an arrest. In fact, many clients come to us in Cleveland, Ohio, after receiving a target letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office or discovering that they’re under investigation by a federal agency. If this is your situation, it’s critical to understand what lies ahead and how early intervention can protect you.
Federal investigations in Cleveland, Ohio, are typically handled by agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS, ATF, Homeland Security, or even the Postal Inspector’s Office. These investigations can last for months or even years, and they often include surveillance, interviews with friends or coworkers, subpoenas for business records, and search warrants. In many cases, people are unaware they’re being investigated until they receive a subpoena or learn that others have been contacted.
If you’ve received a target letter, it means federal prosecutors believe you’ve committed a crime and are considering bringing formal charges. This is not the time to wait and see what happens. It’s a rare opportunity to intervene before charges are filed, and it’s something our firm in Cleveland, Ohio, is experienced in handling.
During the investigation phase, we can help in several important ways:
- Contact prosecutors on your behalf to protect your rights and gauge the scope of the investigation.
- Negotiate limited immunity or proffer agreements if appropriate.
- Prepare you for potential interviews or testimony if you are subpoenaed.
- Conduct our own investigation to uncover facts that may exonerate you or support a favorable resolution.
Federal investigations move fast and are often one-sided. The government is building its case; your defense should begin immediately. Whether you’re in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, or Oxford, Ohio, our attorneys are ready to stand between you and federal law enforcement to ensure your rights are respected from day one.
How Can a Cleveland Criminal Defense Attorney Help With Your Federal Charge?
Federal criminal defense is a specialized area of law that requires advanced legal skill, deep procedural knowledge, and strong relationships with prosecutors and judges. If you’re facing a federal charge in Cleveland, Ohio, here’s what to look for in your attorney:
1. Federal Experience: Not all criminal defense attorneys are equipped to handle federal cases. You need a lawyer with experience in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, right here in Cleveland.
2. Understanding of Federal Sentencing Guidelines: The federal sentencing system is complex. Your lawyer should know how to calculate guideline ranges, argue for downward departures, and present mitigating evidence effectively.
3. Aggressive Pretrial Advocacy: Early intervention can make a huge difference. An attorney familiar with federal investigations in Cleveland, Ohio, can sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.
4. Trial Readiness: While many federal cases result in plea deals, you need a lawyer who’s not afraid to take your case to trial in Cleveland, Ohio, if that’s in your best interest.
5. Resource Access: Federal cases often involve large amounts of evidence and require expert analysis. Your lawyer should have access to investigators, forensic experts, and digital analysts to challenge the government’s case.
6. Local Knowledge: Judges, prosecutors, and court staff in Cleveland, Ohio, all play a role in how your case unfolds. Your attorney should be known and respected in the local federal court system.
Our team at Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez brings all of this and more to every case. We serve clients in Cleveland, Ohio, and are proud to assist individuals and families in Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, who are navigating the federal justice system.
We offer legal assistance to those facing criminal charges throughout the state of Ohio, including:
Why Choose Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez?
When facing federal charges in Cleveland, Ohio, trust is paramount. Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez has earned it through decades of dedicated legal service. Our attorneys bring extensive experience in federal criminal defense, combining strategic insight with a deep commitment to protecting our clients' rights. We understand the complexities of federal law and the high stakes involved, and we approach each case with the tenacity and precision it demands.
Our firm is known for its personalized attention and unwavering support throughout the legal process. We are available 24/7 to address urgent concerns, ensuring that our clients in Cleveland, as well as those in Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, receive the guidance they need when they need it most. Our attorneys are not only skilled litigators but also compassionate advocates who take the time to understand each client's unique situation.
Choosing Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez means partnering with a team that is deeply invested in your future. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes, whether through negotiation or vigorous courtroom defense. Our track record reflects our dedication to excellence and our clients' trust in our ability to navigate the federal legal system effectively.
If you are facing federal charges, don't face them alone. Contact Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez today for a free consultation, and let us put our experience and commitment to work for you.
Contact Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez Today if You Are Facing Federal Charges
If you or a loved one is facing federal charges in Cleveland, Ohio, don’t wait until it's too late. Federal prosecutors move quickly and they have nearly unlimited resources. Your defense must be just as aggressive, just as strategic, and just as well-prepared.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we understand what’s at stake. We understand the pressure you’re under and the fear that comes with a federal indictment. But we also understand the law, the courtroom, and how to fight for the best possible outcome for our clients in Cleveland, Ohio.
We offer comprehensive federal criminal defense for clients accused of serious crimes. Whether you’re under investigation, have been arrested, or have already been indicted in Cleveland, Ohio, we can help. Our attorneys are committed to protecting your rights at every stage of the process, from investigation through trial, sentencing, and appeal.
