From complex investigations to courtroom representation, rely on our federal criminal lawyer in Maryland.
When the full weight of the United States government is focused on you, the experience of your legal counsel is not just a preference—it is a necessity. As a senior attorney with over two decades of dedicated practice, I have witnessed firsthand the profound difference between state-level charges and a federal indictment. A federal case is an entirely different arena, governed by complex procedural rules, investigated by formidable agencies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys who have vast resources at their disposal. The stakes are immeasurably high, often involving lengthy mandatory minimum sentences under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
If you or a loved one is under federal investigation, has received a target letter, or has been arrested on federal charges in Maryland, you are facing a legal battle that can define the rest of your life. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we provide the seasoned, knowledgeable, and strategic defense required to navigate the federal justice system. Our practice is built on a deep understanding of federal law and procedure as it is applied right here in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, with its courthouses in Baltimore and Greenbelt. We are not simply criminal defense attorneys; we are advocates who are prepared to stand between our clients and the immense power of the federal government.
The consequences of a federal conviction extend far beyond prison time, involving severe financial penalties, supervised release, and a permanent criminal record that impacts employment and civil rights. Federal statutes often impose mandatory minimum sentences, stripping judges of discretion and making a robust defense from the earliest stage absolutely critical to preserving your freedom and future.
Understanding the gravity of a federal charge is the first step toward building a formidable defense. Unlike many state offenses, federal crimes are defined by Congress and codified in the United States Code. This means penalties are often harsher and more rigid. For example, federal drug trafficking cases under 21 U.S.C. § 841 link mandatory minimum prison sentences directly to the type and quantity of the substance involved. A conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, governed by 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), carries a consecutive mandatory sentence that must be served after any other sentence is completed.
White-collar offenses, such as wire fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) or mail fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341), are calculated under sentencing guidelines that heavily factor in the amount of financial loss, potentially leading to decades in prison even for first-time offenders. Beyond incarceration, a conviction can lead to:
The stakes are simply too high to face alone. A lawyer for federal charges in Maryland must have an intimate understanding of these statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines to effectively argue on your behalf.
Our firm provides dedicated and knowledgeable defense across a broad spectrum of federal criminal law. From complex white-collar fraud investigations to multi-defendant drug conspiracies and firearms charges, we possess the seasoned perspective required to deconstruct the government’s case and protect our clients’ rights in the Baltimore and Greenbelt federal courthouses.
Federal law is vast, and a defense attorney must have specific experience in the type of case you are facing. For over 20 years, I have defended clients against a wide array of federal allegations, including:
These cases are often document-intensive and can begin with a quiet investigation long before charges are filed. They require a meticulous and proactive defense. We handle cases involving wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, tax evasion, money laundering, public corruption, bribery, and complex conspiracy charges under the RICO Act. Our approach involves early intervention with investigators and prosecutors to challenge the evidence and narrative before an indictment is even sought.
Federal drug prosecutions are notoriously aggressive, focusing on charges of drug trafficking, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and manufacturing. The penalties are severe, with mandatory minimums often determined by drug weight. We scrutinize every aspect of the government’s case, from the legality of the initial stop and search to the use of confidential informants and the accuracy of wiretap evidence.
Cases involving firearms in federal court, such as possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) or using a firearm in furtherance of a drug or violent crime (18 U.S.C. § 924(c)), carry some of the most unforgiving sentencing laws. A § 924(c) charge, for instance, adds a mandatory consecutive sentence. We challenge the elements of possession, the link between the firearm and the alleged crime, and any constitutional violations by law enforcement.
Allegations of possessing or distributing child pornography (18 U.S.C. § 2252), online solicitation of a minor, or sex trafficking are pursued vigorously by federal prosecutors. These cases involve complex digital forensics and carry devastating penalties, including lifetime registration as a sex offender. Our defense involves challenging the chain of custody of digital evidence, intent, and knowledge, and working with forensic analysts to counter the government’s claims.
Our federal practice extends to a variety of other serious crimes, including bank robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, computer crimes under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, and identity theft. We also represent individuals charged with offenses on federal property, such as DUI/DWI at Fort Meade or on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.
The federal criminal process is a structured, often lengthy journey from investigation to resolution, involving specific government agencies and court procedures. Key stages include the grand jury investigation, arraignment, discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Understanding this process is essential for mounting an effective defense.
Unlike state cases that might begin with a street-level arrest, a federal case often starts with a covert investigation. Here is a simplified overview of the path a federal case typically takes:
The moments after learning you are the subject of a federal investigation are disorienting and critical. Your actions can have a lasting impact on your case. Use this practical guide to protect yourself.
An effective federal defense strategy is not reactive; it is a proactive, multi-faceted approach tailored to the specific facts of your case and the prosecution’s tactics. It begins with a deep dive into the government’s evidence to identify constitutional violations, factual weaknesses, and opportunities for negotiation or dismissal before trial.
At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we believe that a powerful defense is built from the ground up. We do not wait for the U.S. Attorney’s office to dictate the pace. Our strategic pillars include:
Facing a federal investigation is an intimidating experience, and it is easy to make critical errors under pressure. Avoiding common pitfalls like speaking to investigators without counsel or underestimating the severity of the situation can significantly improve the outcome of your case. Recognizing these mistakes is the first step toward protecting yourself.
Our Perspective: You are not obligated to speak with them, and you should not. The agents are there to gather evidence for a criminal case. Be polite but firm. State clearly: “I will not answer any questions without my attorney present.” Take their business cards, close the door, and call a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not engage in small talk or try to figure out what they want. Every word you say can and will be documented and used against you.
Our Perspective: A target letter is the government’s way of telling you that they believe you have committed a crime and they are likely to seek an indictment against you. An arrest may not be imminent, but the risk is very high. This letter creates a critical, albeit brief, window of opportunity for your attorney to potentially intervene with the prosecutor before charges are formally filed. This is a pre-indictment emergency. You must retain experienced federal counsel without delay.
Our Perspective: In many federal drug cases, there is a “rebuttable presumption” that the defendant should be detained without bond. This makes the detention hearing a pivotal and difficult battle. To overcome this presumption, we must present clear and convincing evidence that your son is not a danger to the community and not a flight risk. This requires immediate and thorough preparation, including gathering letters of support, documenting employment history, and proposing strict conditions of release to the magistrate judge. Success at this hearing is challenging but possible with a strong presentation.
State crimes violate Maryland state laws, while federal crimes violate U.S. federal statutes. Federal crimes often involve conduct that crosses state lines, occurs on federal property, or targets a federal agency or program. They are investigated by federal agencies (FBI, DEA), prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office, and sentenced under different, often stricter, guidelines.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland covers the entire state. It has two main courthouses: one in Baltimore and one in Greenbelt. Federal crimes that occur in Prince George's County or Montgomery County are typically handled at the Greenbelt courthouse.
The cost varies significantly based on the complexity of the case, the nature of the charges, and whether the case proceeds to trial. Federal cases are generally more expensive than state cases due to the volume of evidence and complex legal issues. Most experienced federal defense attorneys work on a flat fee or retainer basis, which will be discussed during a confidential case assessment.
It is possible, but often more difficult than in state court. Federal law has a presumption of detention for certain offenses, particularly serious drug crimes and crimes of violence. A successful argument for release requires a detailed presentation to the judge about your ties to the community and why you are not a flight risk or danger.
The Federal Sentencing Guidelines are a complex point-based system that calculates a recommended sentencing range for a defendant based on the severity of the offense and their criminal history. While they are now advisory rather than mandatory for judges, they remain the essential starting point for every federal sentencing hearing.
It means a federal law enforcement agency is actively gathering evidence to determine if you have committed a federal crime. This can happen long before you are ever arrested or charged. This is the most critical time to hire an attorney, as they may be able to influence the outcome of the investigation.
Federal cases typically take much longer than state cases. Due to the Speedy Trial Act, the time from indictment to trial is structured, but complex cases with extensive discovery can easily last for a year or more.
A proffer session is a meeting with prosecutors where a defendant or witness provides information about a case. It is sometimes called "Queen for a Day." The information shared is typically protected from being used directly against the person in the government's case-in-chief, but it can be used for other purposes. This is a high-stakes decision that should never be made without detailed guidance from your attorney.
Absolutely. The rules, prosecutors, judges, and sentencing laws are entirely different. An attorney who primarily handles state cases in Annapolis or Upper Marlboro may be completely unprepared for the unique challenges of a wire fraud case in the Baltimore federal courthouse. Experience in the specific court where you are charged is paramount.
Generally, no. Unlike some state convictions, federal law has very limited provisions for expunging or sealing a criminal record. A federal conviction is typically a permanent mark, which underscores the importance of fighting the charges from the very beginning.
Being accused of a federal crime is a serious and life-altering event. You need representation that is not only knowledgeable in the law but seasoned in the specific courts and against the specific prosecutors you will face. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we provide the robust defense you need. To discuss your case in a confidential assessment, contact us at 888-437-7747.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.
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Criminal Defense & Family Law
Mr. SRIS Licensed in VA, MD, NJ, NY, DCOwner & CEO – Former Prosecutor