Skilled Federal Criminal Lawyer San Francisco
As your federal criminal defense lawyer in San Francisco, my statutory and practical knowledge of the criminal justice system and long-standing relationships with the judges and prosecutors give me the ability to get the best deals in the courthouse.
What Is A Federal Criminal Attorney?
A federal criminal attorney is a legal professional specializing in defending clients charged with crimes under U.S. federal laws. Federal attorneys handle all types of cases, including drug possession and trafficking, white-collar crimes, tax fraud and evasion, immigration violations, bank robbery, violent crime, money laundering, conspiracy to commit a crime, computer-related offenses, and violations of federal statutes.
The role of a federal criminal attorney differs from that of a state-level criminal attorney in a few key ways:
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Jurisdiction: Federal crimes violate laws passed by the U.S. Congress, occur on federal property, cross state lines, or involve interstate or international criminal activity. On the other hand, state-level crimes occur within a single state’s borders and violate that state’s laws.
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The Complexity of Cases: Federal criminal cases are often more complex due to the nature of the laws involved, the scope of the offenses, and the federal government’s resources.
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The Severity of Penalties: Penalties for federal offenses are often more severe than for state offenses, with longer prison terms and larger fines.
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Resources and Processes: The processes and procedures in federal courts differ significantly from those in state courts, requiring different knowledge and experience. Federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF also have significant resources for investigating federal crimes.
An excellent federal criminal attorney should deeply understand the U.S. Constitution, federal laws, the rules of federal evidence, and the federal court system. They should be able to navigate these complex systems to provide the best possible defense for their clients. They will also negotiate with federal prosecutors, prepare and present defenses in court, and advocate for their client’s rights at every stage of the criminal justice process.

Why You Need a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Whether you are under criminal investigation, received a subpoena compelling your testimony at the grand jury, or you’ve been indicted with a crime, you probably feel terrified and don’t know what to expect. Your life hangs in the balance of a criminal justice system that does not always treat defendants fairly.
Working with a skilled attorney is critical in any criminal case to protect your rights and help you navigate the criminal justice system. The need for an experienced federal criminal defense attorney becomes even more pressing when facing federal criminal charges, which are treated much more severely than at the state level.
As well, potential penalties for federal crimes are harsher than the penalties for crimes at the state level. A conviction — or even mere charges— could impact your career and personal reputation. In this dire time, you must work with a defense attorney who understands federal criminal law to receive the best possible outcome in your case.
I am San Francisco defense attorney Valery Nechay, founder of the Law Office of Valery Nechay. I have been admitted to practice federal law and have successfully represented numerous clients in federal court. I have obtained favorable results such as dropped charges, reduced sentences, diversion resulting in dismissals, and not-guilty verdicts.
If you face federal criminal charges in the San Francisco Bay Area, I am prepared to take on your case and secure the best possible outcome for your rights, freedom, and future. Reach out to the Law Office of Valery Nechay as soon as possible and schedule an initial free consultation. I can evaluate your case and let you know what your options are.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Practice Areas
A federal criminal offense is an offense that is illegal under federal law. Federal crimes generally cross state lines or are committed on federal property. When an individual is charged with such an offense, they will be prosecuted in federal court instead of regional or state courts.
Overall, crime becomes a federal offense if it meets one or more of these criteria:
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Federal legislation prohibits it
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The crime involved travel across state lines
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The crime took place on federal property
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There is a federal interest, such as national security, at stake
As a trusted criminal lawyer in San Francisco, CA, I have experience defending clients in the Bay Area against federal charges of the utmost severity, including:
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Drug trafficking
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Federal tax evasion
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Mail fraud
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Identity theft
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Computer crimes
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Sex crimes
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Extortion
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Embezzlement
Some crimes can be prosecuted at both the state and federal level. Therefore, working with an experienced and fluent attorney in federal and state court procedures is essential when facing federal charges.
When defending clients accused of federal crimes, I assess the facts and tell them the best course of action. When you work with me, I evaluate every detail and create a customized strategy.
Instead of relying on run-of-the-mill methods, I use innovative techniques designed to suit your needs. This gives us a better chance of obtaining the best results in your case.

How Does a Federal Criminal Investigation Work?
Federal criminal investigations are investigated by different federal agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and other federal law enforcement agencies.
Federal investigations usually last for several months or years before anyone is even charged with a federal crime. Remember that the federal government rarely files charges and brings a case unless they are confident they will most likely win.
What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Cases?
Federal criminal cases differ from those investigated by the state’s law enforcement agencies because suspects are notified that they are implicated in a federal investigation and must show up for an interview with the United States Attorney and the agent handling a federal criminal case.
The United States Attorney prosecutes federal crimes. Federal district court judges hear criminal cases deemed worthy of federal prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s office. Potential sentences for federal criminal cases are outlined in the Federal sentencing guidelines, which are continually amended through Supreme Court rulings.
Although these sentencing guidelines are not binding, San Francisco federal prosecutors and judges often rely on them when determining what penalties to seek and impose if the charged individual is convicted at trial.
Even the mandatory minimum sentences are usually very lengthy and harsh. That is one reason why retaining an experienced federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible is essential. Federal criminal defense attorneys know the stages of federal investigations, and they will help accused individuals fight for their rights.

How to Find the Right Federal Defense Lawyer?
When looking for the right San Francisco federal defense legal counsel, search for attorneys with a successful track record when handling cases in federal courts. There are many differences between state and federal criminal cases, so you can also try to find a lawyer with expertise in federal and state laws.
Unfortunately, criminal defense lawyers often push their clients to accept plea deals and avoid the trial process. That is not the case with Valery Nechay Law. My law firm and I will work tirelessly and fight to protect your rights and your freedom. However, if the evidence against you is convincing and overwhelming, negotiating a plea bargain with a federal prosecutor may be the best solution.
Contact a competent and knowledgeable lawyer immediately if you are facing federal charges. The worst thing you can do is wait. Federal investigative agencies work on their cases for months before charges are filed, and that means your lawyer has a lot of catching up to do, no matter how early you retain their legal services.
If you want to improve your chances of winning federal legal matters, act quickly and retain a lawyer capable of handling this demanding task.

Top Federal Lawyers Near Me
The federal government takes the investigation of a potential federal crime very seriously, so you should ensure you get the most reliable federal criminal lawyer in San Francisco, CA. Facing federal criminal charges is typically a dire situation requiring enlisting a federal crime lawyer who knows and understands federal courts and their procedures.
My statutory and practical knowledge of the criminal justice system and long-standing relationships with judges and federal prosecutors help me to negotiate favorable deals for clients. In every legal issue, I aim to dismiss the charges against you entirely. Even if this is impossible, I work to obtain positive results like reduced charges, mitigated sentences, or acquittals.
Everyone deserves a dedicated legal advocate at the Law Office of Valery Nechay. Whether you are a blue-collar worker or own a Silicon Valley startup, I will tirelessly fight to defend your rights. If you face federal criminal charges, I have the extensive experience, knowledge, and tenacity to represent you every step of the way.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Francisco Bay Area
Cases involving federal crimes may also include agents who spend months — sometimes years — carefully gathering evidence against suspects. If you believe you are under investigation, do not wait until federal law enforcement charges you with a crime in the form of an “indictment.” Act quickly — contact my office, and I will work swiftly to protect you.
My office provides free initial consultations to discuss your case and background. This discussion will enable me to evaluate your legal situation, provide straightforward legal help, and build your defense. I can give you realistic expectations of the outcome and elaborate on the steps we can take to protect your future.
To schedule your consultation, call 650-761-0148 or contact me online today.

SET UP A CONSULTATION TODAY
If you are under investigation or charged with a crime, I will consult with you in person and at no charge to you.