When most people think about potential arrests and prosecutions, they imagine cases that move forward in Texas state courts. In fact, most alleged violations of the law arise out of conduct that violates a state law. However, federal law also contains criminal statutes that make it illegal to commit certain acts. When a person violates these laws, their cases will move forward in federal courtrooms.
While these cases are rarer, the fact is that federal law prohibits many of the same illegal activity as Texas laws. In addition, federal statues contain certain specific laws that involve supposed illegal activity committed against the federal government. The Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski is here to help you if you are facing federal criminal charges. They are also ready to explain the common federal crimes prosecuted in Texas and prepare a defense against these serious allegations. Speak with them now to learn more.
Federal Crimes that Overlap with Texas Law
Many examples of federal crimes prohibit the same activity that is illegal under Texas law. Perhaps the most common example is laws concerning the illegal possession or distribution of drugs. For instance, 21 United States Code § 841 says that it is against the law for any person to manufacture, distribute, or possess with the intent to distribute any controlled substance. This can include heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, or marijuana. Of course, Texas law also prohibits this activity. As a result, it is possible for a person to face both state and federal charges that arise out of the same activity.
Other examples of behaviors that can violate both state and federal laws include:
- Kidnapping
- Fraud
- Homicide
- Sex trafficking
Just because these alleged behaviors share the same basis in fact does not mean that cases in federal and state court will be the same. In some examples, the exact things that a prosecutor must prove to obtain a conviction will be different. In others, the penalties for a conviction will also differ. The team at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski is ready to explain the common federal crimes prosecuted in Texas that are similar to those under local state laws.
Criminal Offenses Specific to Federal Law
It is an established fact that states have the power to enact laws to protect their interests. At the same time, the federal government also has this right. As a result, many federal criminal allegations allege that a person has acted in a way that directly harms the federal government.
One example of these laws is those that deal with the proper payment of taxes. Under 26 United States Code § 7201 makes it a crime to take any actions with the intent to avoid paying one’s fair share of taxes. These cases can result in the payment of severe fines in addition to any overdue taxes. Convictions can even bring prison sentences of up to five years.
A collection of statutes also punishes the commission of fraud against the federal government. Providing false information on loan documents, improperly charging Medicare or Medicaid, and even submitting improper timesheets when working as a government contractor are all examples of fraudulent activity that may result in federal criminal charges in Texas. An attorney at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski could help promote a powerful defense against these common federal criminal charges.
Contact the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski Now to Discover More About Common Federal Crimes in Texas
It is not unusual for an arrest to result in federal charges in Texas. This happens when a federal agency like the FBI takes the lead in an investigation and files formal charges in a United States District Court. These charges can allege a variety of illegal behaviors ranging from drug possession, to fraud, to homicide.
The team at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski is ready to provide more information about the common federal crimes prosecuted in Texas. They are also prepared to develop a defense that helps people fight back against these serious accusations. Contact us now to get started.