Strong Defense For Federal Criminal Charges
The federal government has considerable resources and aggressive prosecutors. If you are facing federal prosecution, you cannot talk your way out of trouble or wait to see if it all goes away. You need immediate intervention and a zealous defense.
If you have been charged, or if you even suspect you are under investigation by federal authorities, contact Stephen P. Pfeiffer without delay. Criminal defense attorney Stephen P. Pfeiffer has the proven strategies and federal court experience you need when your freedom and livelihood are at stake.
White Collar Crimes And Other Federal Offenses
Federal charges often carry harsher penalties than state charges. The rules of evidence and other procedures are different in federal court. To stand a chance, you need a lawyer who knows what he’s doing. Stephen P. Pfeiffer has extensive experience in federal court and is able to assist with most complex federal crimes, including:
- Healthcare fraud
- Tax fraud
- Medicare/Medicaid fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Check fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Bank fraud
- Welfare fraud
- Unemployment fraud
- Embezzlement
- Identity theft
- Counterfeiting
- Bribery
- Federal civil rights charges
- Sex crimes
- Bribing a public official
A Skilled Attorney Can Make All The Difference
So-called “white collar crimes” still carry severe punishment, including the real possibility of prison. A felony record could cost you your job or professional license, and interfere with future employment. In many cases, prosecutors tack on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud and/or obstruction of justice as additional leverage. You need a lawyer who can scrutinize the government’s case to cast doubt on criminal intent and other facets of the allegations. Mr. Pfeiffer works every angle to convince the prosecutor to dismiss the case or drop the most serious charges. He will explore possible plea negotiations, but he is prepared and equipped to defend you at trial to avoid the consequences of a felony conviction.
Stephen P. Pfeiffer is AV rated* by Martindale-Hubbell. He has been selected to the Virginia Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” list and included in the “Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers for Virginia” by the American Society of Legal Advocates.
Answering Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Federal Criminal Defense
When our clients are charged with federal crimes in Virginia, they often have a lot of questions. As we represent you, we can answer your questions while building a robust defense for you. Some of the questions we get from our clients include:
Do I have to speak with federal agents if they contact me?
You are not required to speak with federal investigators, and it is in your best interest to politely decline until you have legal counsel. Federal agents are highly trained, and anything you say can be misinterpreted or used against you. Your first and most important step is to state that you wish to have an attorney present before answering any questions. This protects your rights and prevents you from unintentionally harming your case.
What is a federal grand jury indictment?
A federal grand jury is a group of citizens that hears evidence presented by a prosecutor to determine if there is probable cause to file criminal charges. This process is one-sided, as neither you nor your defense attorney are typically present to challenge the evidence. If the grand jury decides there is enough evidence, it will issue an indictment, which is the formal document that initiates a federal criminal case against you.
Can a federal charge be resolved without going to trial?
Yes, many federal cases are resolved before a trial through negotiations with the prosecution. A skilled defense attorney can analyze the government’s evidence for weaknesses and potentially negotiate for a dismissal of charges or a plea agreement to a lesser offense. The goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, and sometimes that means avoiding the risks and uncertainties of a trial.
Get Stephen P. Pfeiffer On Your Side
If you are suspected of a federal offense, do not talk to investigators, business associates or anyone until you get legal counsel. Call the firm’s Virginia Beach law office at (757) 554-0258 to arrange a confidential consultation or send an email today.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.