Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

Last updated on April 15, 2025

A federal crime is an activity that violates U.S. federal laws. Official federal agencies such as the FBI and the United States attorneys investigate them in federal courts. Violations of state and local entities may also be federal crimes when they take place on U.S. federal properties or Indian reservations.

At Leonard Trial Lawyers in Chicago, we regularly and aggressively defend individuals and entities in the trial of federal criminal prosecutions and in connection with federal investigations. We recognize that, even though all cases cannot ultimately proceed to a jury trial, they must be prepared from the outset with that singular end goal in mind.

We have obtained extraordinary results for our clients in federal criminal matters. However, we can do more than just say that we have been, or will be, successful in trying federal criminal cases to jury verdicts. Our track record demonstrates verifiable accomplishments.

Why Choose Leonard Trial Lawyers For Federal Criminal Defense

Attorney Mike Leonard is believed to be the only practicing federal criminal attorney who has obtained six or more not guilty jury verdicts on all counts and charges in federal criminal prosecutions brought by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois (Chicago).

In the process of selecting an attorney for representation in federal criminal matters, an attorney’s track record of actual success in federal criminal jury trials is critically important. Accordingly, a client facing potential or actual federal criminal charges should not hesitate to ask about an attorney’s jury trial history in federal criminal prosecutions. Moreover, because we have not conducted previous work for the United States Attorney’s Office as federal prosecutors, we bring a unique and defense-oriented perspective to the defense of federal criminal prosecutions.

We also regularly provide zealous representation in pre-charge plea negotiations, as well as in the crucial aspects of federal criminal cases such as sentencing submissions and sentencing hearings under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

We have achieved similar success in representing individuals facing state criminal charges. This includes a recent complete not guilty jury verdict in favor of our client in a murder prosecution brought by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

In addition to our trial work, we have handled numerous appeals at the federal and state levels, within and outside Illinois’ federal and state appellate courts.

Representative Federal And State Criminal Cases Handled

In our years of service to Chicago and greater Illinois, we have worked with clients involved in a wide range of cases involving allegations of federal offenses such as conspiracy, RICO violations and other white collar crimes such as identity theft (ID theft and misuse).

We vigorously represent clients charged with mail, wire, bank and securities fraud. Other types of fraud in our clients’ cases include mortgage, Medicare and Medicaid fraud, and kickbacks. We defend people accused of theft of federal benefits and various kinds of financial fraud such as home repair fraud.

Consult with our defense attorneys to devise a defense strategy for any other federal crime allegations you are facing such as the following:

• Bank robbery, Hobbs Act robbery or cargo theft
• Violent crimes, including aggravated assault
• Gun use and other weapon crimes, including felon in possession
• Counterfeiting
• Acting as an agent for a foreign government
• Immigration and border crossing crimes such as reentry violations
• Federal protected species violations
• Murder, attempted murder and other crimes of violence
• Fraud, including bank fraud, health care fraud, insurance fraud, mail fraud, wire fraud, mortgage fraud and securities fraud
• Money laundering

Serious drug crime cases at the federal level include allegations of possession, distribution, conspiracy and trafficking. Sometimes, the difference between federal and state crimes is the quantity of banned substances.

Our winning defenses for some clients sometimes include persuading federal prosecutors that our clients’ cases should be considered state criminal charges rather than federal ones. By moving to a state court, our clients may have opportunities for more favorable outcomes.

What Are The Penalties For Federal Crimes?

The consequences of a conviction are severe and can impact one’s life significantly. Penalties and sentencing depend on the severity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history. These can fall into several categories:

• Class A felonies: These are the most serious crimes such as murder. If convicted, a person might face up to life in prison.
• Class B felonies: Crimes such as major drug trafficking are in this category. Conviction can lead to at least 25 years in prison.
• Class C felonies: Offenses such as fraud can lead to imprisonment for 10 to 25 years.
• Class D felonies: These might include certain types of theft. Convictions can carry sentences of five to 10 years in prison.
• Class E felonies: These are lesser offenses that might involve minor fraud. They result in sentences of less than five years but more than one year.

Not all federal convictions lead to prison time. In some cases, the court gives probation, which lets people serve their sentence under supervision while living in the community. However, probation comes with strict rules, and breaking them can result in jail time.

Fines are another type of penalty. These are financial punishments from the court and can be a significant cost, especially in cases such as white collar crimes. Depending on the circumstances of the case, a person convicted of a crime may also need to pay restitution to the victims for their losses.

Some federal crimes, such as drug offenses and those involving firearms, have mandatory minimum sentences. This means judges have less flexibility, often leading to long prison terms, no matter the details of the case. The penalties may be harsher if someone has prior convictions, especially for serious crimes.

The Role Of A Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

When facing federal charges, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. At Leonard Trial Lawyers, our federal defense attorneys employ a range of strategies to build a strong defense for our clients. This can include:

• Conducting comprehensive case investigations and evidence analysis
• Challenging evidence admissibility and constitutional violations
• Filing strategic motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or favorable plea terms
• Preparing compelling sentencing arguments to minimize penalties

Federal charges often involve criminal investigations by agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In cases like these, experience is critical. With over 30 years of experience as a courtroom trial attorney and litigator, Mike can address complex legal procedures and protect your rights during the process.

Answering Your Questions About Federal Charges

Facing federal charges or investigations can be daunting. Having the right information is key. Here, we answer some questions often asked by clients:

What steps should I take if I am the target of a criminal investigation by the government?

If the government is investigating you, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. First, do not talk to investigators or law enforcement without a lawyer; they can use anything you say against you. Next, contact a federal criminal defense attorney right away. They can guide you through the process, explain your rights and help you understand the investigation. Your attorney can also communicate with the government on your behalf and work to protect your interests.

When should I consult a federal criminal defense attorney?

Consult a federal criminal defense attorney as soon as you learn about your involvement in a federal investigation or when authorities charge you with a federal crime. Early consultation lets your attorney evaluate the situation and start planning a defense strategy. Even if you think you are only a witness or have done nothing wrong, having the right legal representation can help you avoid mistakes that might harm your case.

What differentiates a state crime from a federal crime?

The main difference between state and federal crimes is based on which laws are violated and who prosecutes them. State crimes break laws made by individual states. State courts handle these crimes, which often include offenses such as theft, assault and burglary. However, certain situations can turn these into federal crimes. For example, if a theft happens on federal property, such as a national park, or a crime crosses state lines, it may become a federal matter.

Federal crimes break laws made by the United States Congress, so federal courts handle these offenses. These crimes often involve actions that affect the whole country or happen in more than one state. Examples include tax evasion, mail fraud and drug trafficking across state or international borders. Crimes on federal land, such as military bases, are also federal offenses.

Begin Your Defense Today

Whether you are facing charges already, or rumors indicate that you may be questioned or charged, consult with us now to begin preparing and building your defense. Contact us by calling 312-815-6572 or using our online contact form.