Long Island Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

Federal investigations often proceed without notifying the individual until charges are formally filed. If you notice unusual activity, such as surveillance or sudden contact from agents, you should speak with a federal criminal defense attorney immediately to understand your rights.

At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we know that being charged with a federal crime can be stressful and frightening. Your freedom and reputation are at stake.

For representation from a hard-hitting attorney, call The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., at 516-500-9068 or fill out our online contact form.

Why Clients Trust The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C.

Clients who have criminal charges against them, including felonies, should retain an experienced criminal law attorney, as the results of self-representation or an inexperienced lawyer can affect you for the rest of your life. The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., has years of experience negotiating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office or state prosecutor to reduce or dismiss charges when appropriate.

Meet Our Lead Defense Attorney Scott Gross

With nearly two decades of legal expertise, Scott Gross stands as a trusted criminal defense attorney in the heart of Long Island. Beginning his career in 2006 as an Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County, he prosecuted thousands of cases, including high-profile matters, across various areas, including narcotics, white-collar crime, and major offenses. His extensive trial experience over the years has equipped him with unmatched courtroom skill, allowing him to champion his client’s rights. Transitioning to private practice, Scott Gross has been recognized for his aggressive advocacy, handling complex and high-profile criminal defense cases in the state of New York.

• Available 24/7
• Free Consultations
• Years of Experience
• Track Record of Success
• Thousands of Cases Handled

Types of Federal Charges The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., Handle

Federal crimes are those that violate federal laws, occur on federal property, or cross state lines. These types of crimes can include:

• Bank robbery
• Drug crimes on federal property
• Espionage
• Extortion
• Fraud
• Kidnapping
• Obstruction of justice

Our History of Success in Federal Court

We are committed to pursuing a strong outcome based on the facts of your case. The New York criminal justice system is complex, so we do not advise handling cases on your own.

Some Of Our Case Victories

• The acquittal of a Suffolk County police sergeant on hate crime charges
• The dismissal of assault charges after a trial
• Criminal contempt charges dismissed after a hearing
• Not guilty verdicts in DWI cases after a jury trial
• The dismissal of drug charges when the court found no probable cause
• A depraved indifference murder charge dismissed after the trial
• A reduction of sentence that the appellate court found unduly harsh and excessive

Testimonials From Clients In Long Island, NY

“Scott is one of the best in the business. True professional and expert in his field. I highly recommend.” — S. F.

“Scott’s amazing. He helped me through an unfortunate incident with the absolute best outcome I could have hoped for. During the process (and even after) he was always available and answered calls and emails promptly. I can’t put a price on what he did for me (but the price he did put on it was very reasonable and worth every penny!)” — S.M.

“Scott Gross is an EXCELLENT attorney! He is responsive and keeps you up to date and informed throughout the entire process from start to finish. There are NO surprises with Scott and it is clear that when you hire Scott you don’t only get an attorney you get a TEAMMATE . His Knowledge, compassion and confidence has helped my family and I make it through a VERY difficult situation. If your ever in need of an attorney, DON’T hesitate to reach out to him. Scott Gross is the BEST attorney on Long Island.” — P.J.

What Does a Long Island Criminal Lawyer Do?

A criminal defense attorney serving Long Island can perform several critical roles, including:

• Offer attentive representation and personalized service.
• Protect the rights of the accused.
• Develop a legally sound defense strategy.
• Provide accurate legal guidance.
• Represent clients during court proceedings.
• Remain accessible to clients, including on weekends.
• Offer flexible and affordable defense options.

What is Considered a Federal Crime on Long Island?

Not all actions that result in arrest or jail time are classified as crimes under New York law. The state refers to certain “crimes” as offenses. For example, non-criminal offenses may include traffic infractions, such as speeding, or violations, such as disorderly conduct or trespassing.

New York State considers several criminal offenses as crimes, including:

• Class A and B misdemeanors
• Unclassified misdemeanors
• Felonies, such as murder, rape, robbery, arson, and selling or possessing controlled substances

The state also classifies felonies as violent or non-violent.

Federal Vs. State Crimes

So, how do you know if a crime is state or federal? A federal crime violates the U.S. Constitution, which always takes precedence over state law. The federal government must have jurisdiction to try a crime.

Common Factors That Make a Crime Federal

• The criminal activity crosses state borders
• The crime takes place on federal property, such as robbing a federal bank
• The suspect violated a federal law
• The crime involves citizens from different states
• A state law is deemed unconstitutional

Federal district courts, courts of appeals, and the Supreme Court handle federal crimes, while the city or county court handles state crimes.

Examples of federal crimes include:

• IRS violations
• Mail fraud
• Drug trafficking
• Drug possession
• Kidnapping
• Counterfeiting bills
• Child pornography
• Copyright infractions
• Money laundering

Examples of state crimes include:

• Traffic violations
• Robbery/burglary/theft
• Contract breach
• Rape
• Arson

A federal judge must accept an attorney’s application before he or she can represent clients in federal courts.

Who Investigates Federal Crimes?

Depending on the crime, investigations may be conducted by:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

Federal investigations frequently take longer than state-level cases and often involve advanced surveillance tactics, such as wiretapping or GPS monitoring. Prosecutors typically wait to file charges until they have compiled substantial evidence.

Additionally, federal prosecutors do not levy charges against a suspect until they have gathered all of the evidence they need.

Common Federal Conspiracy Charges

A federal conspiracy charge under 18 U.S.C. § 371 involves two or more individuals agreeing to commit a federal offense and taking overt action to further that plan. A conspiracy is an unlawful agreement between people to commit an act.

Defrauding the United States is a conspiracy. However, the suspects must take overt action to further the conspiracy.

For example, when two people plan to rob a federal bank, they can discuss it, but until they take action, such as casing the bank, it is not considered a conspiracy.

Other federal conspiracy cases include:

• Defrauding the government concerning claims
• Impeding the free exercise of rights
• Injuring or impeding an officer
• Aiding enemy aliens or prisoners of war
• Spying (gathering or delivering defense information for or to a foreign government)
• Drug offenses, including drug trafficking
• Kidnapping
• Racketeering

What Are the Penalties for a Federal Crime?

The penalties you could face for a conviction depend on the severity of the crime. For all crimes, the consequences are harsh and could result in hefty fines and time in federal prison, affecting your relationships, finances, and employment. We know how scary it can be to have so much on the line. That is why we provide a personalized approach to fight the charges you are facing. Federal law penalties may include:

• Prison
• Fines
• Life in prison with no eligibility for parole
• Life in prison
• Solitary confinement
• Asset forfeiture
• Supervised release

Sentencing guidelines consider several factors, including the number of offenses, the nature of the offense, and prior criminal history.

Personal Consequences of Having a Federal Crime Charge

Those who commit federal crimes often face personal consequences along with prison, fines, and other penalties. Personal consequences may include:

• Difficulty finding employment
• Challenges in securing suitable housing
• Loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote until you complete your sentence, or potentially losing those rights permanently
• Inability to hold public office
• Loss of the right to possess firearms
• Travel restrictions
• Social stigma

What Rights Do I Have if Law Enforcement Charges Me With a Federal Crime?

If law enforcement charges you with a federal crime, you have rights, including:

• The right to an attorney before you speak with any federal law enforcement officer
• The right to an initial appearance
• The right to a fair trial
• Protection against unlawful searches

A criminal defense attorney can help you assert your rights at every stage, including during questioning, court appearances, and plea negotiations.

What Happens After a Federal Arrest?

If a federal law enforcement officer arrests you, you will go through the federal criminal process.

1. Booking: The arresting officer transports you to a federal detention facility or a local jail that accommodates federal prisoners. They will take your fingerprints, photograph you, and collect your personal information.
2. Initial appearance: You have the right to appear in court for an initial appearance within 48 hours of your arrest. You will have the opportunity to meet with your lawyer before the initial appearance. At this hearing, the court informs you of your charges, your rights, and the next court date. If you need court-appointed counsel, the court will determine your eligibility.
3. Detention hearing: At the initial appearance or shortly after, the court determines whether to release you on bond.
4. Indictment: You appear before a grand jury that reviews the prosecution’s evidence to determine probable cause for your charges, without your attorney present. If probable cause is found, an indictment is returned. You can choose to waive your right to indictment to proceed with a formal charging document.
5. Arraignment: The court informs you of the official charges against you, after which you enter a plea of not guilty or guilty. The court issues future court dates and assigns a trial and sentencing judge.
6. Pretrial phase: After arraignment, your case moves into pretrial. The prosecutor provides discovery to your attorney. This process can take several months. During this phase, either side may file motions and additional discovery requests. Your attorney may also make a plea agreement, after which you go to sentencing without a trial.
7. Motions in limine hearing: If your case goes to trial, both sides have the opportunity to file motions in limine. Motions in limine are pretrial motions that request the exclusion of specific evidence or arguments.
8. Trial: If your case goes to trial, it can vary in length depending on several factors, including the number of witnesses and case complexity.
9. Sentencing: If the jury finds you guilty or you plead guilty, you will have a sentencing hearing.

What Should I Do if I Am Under Federal Investigation?

If you are under federal investigation, avoid speaking with investigators without legal counsel. It is important that an attorney explain your rights and keep the prosecution from violating them. Speaking to investigators can negatively affect the outcome of the case if you say the wrong thing.

Strategic Defense Against Federal Prosecution

The U.S. District Court tries federal crimes in front of a grand jury, and a U.S. attorney prosecutes the crimes.

The U.S. attorney will use various tactics throughout your case to try to convince the jury that you are guilty. As a former prosecutor, our Long Island federal crimes lawyer knows how the other side approaches cases and can use this knowledge to build a strong defense strategy that challenges the evidence presented against you.

Law firms build strong defense strategies based on the facts, law, and constitutional issues. The attorney can file pretrial motions, negotiate pleas, and prep for trial. Understanding the prosecution’s approach helps craft an effective defense.

What Are the Steps Involved in a Federal Criminal Trial?

If you go to trial, the court goes into jury selection. Once jury selection finishes, both sides give an opening statement, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and then present closing arguments.

After the closing arguments, the jury goes into deliberation. It comes back with a guilty or not guilty verdict. If the jury finds you guilty, you proceed to the sentencing hearing.

What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you are contacted by a federal law enforcement agency, served a subpoena, or accused of a federal crime, including trafficking, white-collar crime, or cybercrime, it is vital to consult a federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Even if you suspect you might be under investigation, you should seek legal representation.

Start Building Your Defense With Our Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Your future depends on how well your attorney handles your case from beginning to end. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we have an experienced criminal defense attorney available to fight for you. With our knowledgeable attorney strongly advocating for your rights, you can trust that your case will receive thorough and strategic attention from beginning to end. Contact us at 516-500-9068 or fill out our contact form to request a consultation.