New York Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Defending Clients in Suffolk and Nassau Counties Facing Federal Investigations and Charges

If you are the subject of a federal investigation or have been taken into custody for any type of federal offense, Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP can deliver the insight and guidance you need to make the right decisions about this potentially life-changing situation. Our team of New York federal criminal defense attorneys has no equal in terms of diversity and breadth of experience, not only in criminal defense but as former prosecutors and judges as well. We boast more than 200 years of combined experience, and we use that experience to protect your rights.

Being charged with a federal crime is considerably different than facing criminal prosecution in New York State court. Because federal crimes usually involve interstate commerce, cross-state criminal activity, or violations of federal criminal statutes, they are investigated by federal agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP provides legal defense services to individuals facing these matters, with a team of experienced and recognized attorneys focused on protecting your rights and addressing the path forward.

Put over 200 years of combined experience on your side. Call (888) 779-0267 to arrange a free consultation and review of your case by our New York federal criminal defense attorneys.

Common Types of Federal Crimes

As we addressed earlier, federal crimes are those offenses that violate United States federal laws, as opposed to state laws. These crimes are typically investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF, and prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office.

Some common types of federal crimes include:

• White-Collar Crimes: These are non-violent crimes committed for financial gain. They often involve deceit, concealment, or violation of trust and include offenses such as fraud, insider trading, embezzlement, money laundering, and bribery.
• Drug Trafficking and Distribution: Federal laws prohibit the manufacture, distribution, sale, or possession of certain controlled substances. Drug trafficking offenses can range from small-scale distribution to large-scale, international trafficking operations.
• Firearms Offenses: Federal laws regulate the possession, sale, and use of firearms. Offenses in this category include illegal possession of firearms, trafficking firearms across state lines, and possession of firearms by certain prohibited persons.
• Terrorism: Acts of terrorism, whether domestic or international, fall under federal jurisdiction. This includes offenses such as providing material support to terrorist organizations, planning or carrying out terrorist attacks, and related crimes.
• Cybercrimes: With the increasing reliance on technology, cybercrimes have become more prevalent. These include offenses such as hacking, identity theft, phishing scams, and the distribution of malware.
• Immigration Violations: Federal laws govern immigration and naturalization. Immigration offenses can include illegal entry into the country, human trafficking, harboring undocumented immigrants, and employing unauthorized workers.
• Racketeering (RICO) Offenses: The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) targets organized crime and criminal enterprises. RICO offenses involve a pattern of illegal activity carried out by a criminal organization, such as racketeering, money laundering, and extortion.
• Counterfeiting: Producing, distributing, or possessing counterfeit currency, goods, or documents is a federal offense. This includes counterfeiting of money, trademarks, and official documents such as passports and identification cards.
• Public Corruption: Federal laws prohibit public officials from engaging in corrupt activities such as bribery, extortion, and abuse of power. Corruption offenses may involve government officials at various levels and can undermine the integrity of public institutions.
• Environmental Crimes: Violations of federal environmental laws, such as illegal dumping of hazardous waste, pollution of waterways, and wildlife trafficking, are prosecuted as federal crimes.

Understanding Federal Laws in New York

Federal crimes in New York cover a wide range of offenses, and investigations often move quickly due to the state’s role as a national hub for commerce and activity. Understanding how federal cases operate locally is critical for anyone facing federal charges in New York.

Key points about federal laws and prosecutions in New York include:

• Scope of federal crimes: Federal cases can involve offenses ranging from cybersecurity breaches affecting large corporations to drug trafficking that crosses state lines.
• Federal agency investigations: Crimes are typically investigated by agencies such as the FBI and DEA, which actively monitor potential federal violations throughout New York.
• Federal court districts: New York is served by both the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York, with cases commonly proceeding in courthouses in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Central Islip. Each district has its own local rules and courtroom practices.
• Strict procedural expectations: Federal judges expect attorneys to be fully prepared on complex procedural rules, evidentiary standards, and motion practice, making local knowledge essential.
• Overlap with state or regulatory matters: Many federal cases also involve parallel state investigations or regulatory inquiries, increasing risk if issues are not coordinated carefully.

Many federal cases in New York also involve parallel state investigations or regulatory inquiries, which adds another layer of risk if matters are not coordinated carefully. We take the time to analyze whether a client is facing potential exposure in New York state courts, before administrative agencies, or in civil proceedings arising from the same conduct. By addressing those overlapping issues early, our federal criminal defense lawyer can work to minimize collateral consequences and help clients make informed choices about cooperation, plea discussions, or proceeding to trial.

Federal Criminal Penalties

The potential criminal penalties for federal crimes can vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Federal sentencing guidelines provide a framework for judges to determine appropriate penalties based on factors such as the type of crime, the defendant's criminal history, and the specific circumstances of the case.

The following are some of the potential criminal penalties for federal crimes:

• Imprisonment: Incarceration is a common penalty for federal crimes. The length of imprisonment can range from months to life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Some federal crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, which require judges to impose a specified minimum term of imprisonment upon conviction.
• Fines: Federal courts can impose fines as part of a criminal sentence. The amount of the fine depends on the offense and can vary significantly. For some offenses, fines can reach into the millions of dollars.
• Restitution: In cases where the victim has suffered financial losses as a result of the crime, the court may order the defendant to pay restitution. Restitution is intended to compensate the victim for their losses and can include repayment of stolen funds, property damage, or other economic harm.
• Probation: Instead of or in addition to imprisonment, a defendant may be sentenced to probation. Probation typically involves supervision by a probation officer and compliance with certain conditions, such as maintaining employment, attending counseling, or refraining from criminal activity. Violating the terms of probation can result in additional penalties, including imprisonment.
• Asset Forfeiture: In cases involving certain types of crimes, such as drug trafficking or white-collar offenses, the government may seek asset forfeiture. This involves seizing property or assets that are believed to have been obtained through illegal activity or used to facilitate the crime.
• Community Service: Some federal sentences include a requirement to perform community service. Community service may involve activities such as cleaning up public spaces, providing assistance to nonprofit organizations, or participating in educational programs.
• Loss of Civil Rights: Certain federal convictions can result in the loss of specific civil rights, such as the right to vote, serve on a jury, or possess firearms. These collateral consequences can vary depending on the specific offense and the laws of the jurisdiction.
• Deportation: Non-citizens convicted of federal crimes may face deportation or removal proceedings. Immigration consequences can be severe for non-citizens convicted of certain offenses, including drug crimes, crimes of moral turpitude, and aggravated felonies.

How Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP Defends You in Federal Cases

Federal cases are complex, and a single investigation can lead to multiple charges governed by distinct procedures and standards. Defending these matters requires experience with federal discovery, motion practice, trial procedures, and sentencing rules. At Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP, our New York federal criminal defense attorneys focus specifically on these challenges.

When you work with our firm, our defense approach typically includes:

• Experience across a wide range of federal charges: We defend clients facing nonviolent white‑collar offenses, organized crime allegations, narcotics cases, capital offenses, and other federal crimes.
• Early and strategic case development: Our approach begins with a thorough review of the evidence and allegations, working closely with clients to develop a clear narrative while preparing for multiple possible outcomes.
• Representation during investigations: In many matters, we begin defending clients as soon as they learn they are targets, subjects, or witnesses. At this stage, we focus on understanding the scope of the investigation, preserving documents and electronic data, and advising on responses to subpoenas or grand jury appearances.
• Coordination with prosecutors when appropriate: Early involvement allows us to address potential exposure before charges are filed, open lines of communication with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and position the case for a favorable path forward.
• Aggressive pre‑trial advocacy: Once a case reaches indictment and pre‑trial proceedings, we closely examine government conduct, including search warrants, wiretaps, interviews, and identification procedures, and litigate motions to suppress or limit evidence where warranted.

Throughout the process, we keep clients informed about their options, including the risks and benefits of trial, negotiated resolutions, or cooperation. Our goal is to provide a thorough, personalized defense that reflects both the complexity of federal law and the client’s objectives.

The Federal Criminal Case Process in New York

Understanding the life cycle of a federal case can help you make better decisions when the stakes are highest. In New York, many matters begin long before an arrest, with quiet investigations handled by agencies like the FBI, DEA, or Homeland Security Investigations and supervised by assistant United States attorneys in the Southern or Eastern District of New York. During this time, agents may be gathering documents, interviewing witnesses, or presenting evidence to a grand jury housed in federal courthouses in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Central Islip.

As a case progresses, the focus often shifts from investigation to charging decisions, arraignment, and pre-trial litigation. We guide clients through each of these stages, explaining what to expect at initial appearances, detention hearings, and status conferences, and how decisions at each point can affect the long-term outcome. By mapping out the process in clear terms, we help clients weigh options such as negotiating a plea, pursuing pre-trial motions, or preparing for trial before a federal jury in New York.

Throughout the process, we pay close attention to deadlines imposed by the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and by local rules in each district. Missing a filing date, failing to preserve an issue, or overlooking a discovery dispute can have serious consequences in federal court. Our team approach allows us to divide responsibilities, coordinate strategy, and ensure that complex cases keep moving on track while clients remain informed and involved in every important decision.

What to Do If You Are Under Federal Investigation

Learning that you are under federal investigation can be unsettling, whether you receive a target letter, a grand jury subpoena, or an unexpected visit from federal agents. In New York, these contacts may come from offices in downtown Manhattan, Long Island, or other regional field offices, and they usually signal that prosecutors have already devoted significant resources to the matter. The steps you take in the first hours and days after learning of an investigation can have a lasting impact on your options.

Before speaking with agents or producing records, it is critical to understand your rights and obligations. We help clients evaluate the scope of subpoenas, determine whether asserting the Fifth Amendment is appropriate, and decide how to handle requests for interviews or proffer sessions at the U.S. Attorney's Office. By carefully preparing for any interaction with the government, we work to avoid misstatements, incomplete disclosures, or other missteps that could trigger additional exposure, such as false statements or obstruction allegations.

We also counsel clients on practical steps they can take inside their businesses and homes while an investigation is pending. Preserving relevant documents and electronic data, suspending routine destruction policies, and limiting internal discussions to privileged settings can all be important safeguards. At the same time, our federal criminal defense lawyer remains focused on reducing the disruption that investigations can cause to families and businesses across Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the greater New York City area, always with an eye toward protecting both legal interests and personal reputations.

Why Choose Our Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers in New York

Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP is distinguished by its multifaceted team, bringing together former judges, prosecutors, and public defenders with over 200 years of combined legal insight. This diverse team ensures a well-rounded view of federal criminal defense challenges, enabling us to form effective defense strategies tailored to individual cases. Our commitment to integrity, meticulous preparation, and client communication can provide the robust defense and support necessary when facing serious federal allegations. From complex legal arguments to strong negotiations, our team's experience is leveraged to protect your interests at every stage.

If you’re under federal investigation, early action matters. Speak with federal criminal defense lawyers in New York immediately. Call (888) 779-0267 or contact us online today.