When you’re facing criminal charges, whether state or federal, it’s important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side. Our legal team at the Law Offices of John D. Kirby understand all state and federal criminal laws and can uphold them in all legal proceedings for our clients. We can help you understand the difference between the classification of federal crimes during a consultation at our office.

Primary federal offense categories

Some of the primary offense categories listed by the U.S. Sentencing Commission for federal crimes include:

• Property crimes: This includes auto theft, burglary and larceny, or arson, to name a few.
• Drug crimes: This includes drug trafficking or distribution across state lines. It can also include drug import-export, manufacture, or drug distribution near a school or to someone under 21 years old.
• Violent crimes: This includes first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and conspiracy to murder. It also includes voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, sexual abuse of a minor as well as different assault and robbery charges.
• White collar crimes: This includes fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, extortion, bribery, money laundering and tax offenses.
• Firearm crimes: This includes illegal possession of firearms or ammunition, using them in a crime, and possession of guns or explosives in a school or federal building.
• Pornography: Possessing any child pornography is a federal offense as well as selling or buying children for porn.
• Gambling: Transmitting wagering information, interstate transportation of wagering paraphernalia, or engaging in a gambling business are crimes in this classification.
• Kidnapping: This includes the taking of hostages.

FAQs about federal criminal offenses

Are state and federal penalties and sentences different?

Yes, penalties are quite different for the two.

What’s the difference between a federal felony and a federal misdemeanor?

Lesser federal offenses may be called a misdemeanor, while more serious offenses can be felonies. Federal felonies are divided into A, B, C, D, and E categories. While federal misdemeanors are divided into A, B, and C categories, with A being the worst.

Call to Schedule a Free Consultation With a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with a federal crime, call to schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney. The experienced legal professionals at the Law Offices of John D. Kirby will investigate the facts of your case and give you an effective and strong defense that will help you get your charges dismissed or reduced. Give us a call at 619-557-0100 and speak with our friendly staff to learn more about our legal services. We look forward to hearing from you.