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Can a State Crime Become a Federal Crime?

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A federal crime in the United States is a crime deemed illegal under federal legislation. Unlike state laws that may vary from one state to another, a federal crime is illegal in all states. Federal crimes are investigated by major federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The cases are prosecuted by federal attorneys in front of federal judges. Federal agencies and attorneys have many resources to use in making their case against you. To protect your rights, it is extremely important to have an experienced defense lawyer if you are facing federal charges.

Is it a State or Federal Charge?

Many charges are clearly identified as being federal. A few examples are tax evasion, mail fraud, racketeering and drug trafficking. State charges are crimes like simple assault or petty theft. Despite the straightforward appearance, these jurisdictions can quickly become complicated.

The United States Constitution has a Supremacy Clause. This means individual states govern within their own boundaries until something conflicts with federal law. Once this conflict is identified, the charges become federal. For example, crimes that cross state lines automatically become federal jurisdiction. Other times, a state law and a federal law will overlap. When this happens, the Supremacy Clause takes over and the charges default to federal jurisdiction.

Differences in State and Federal Charges

While state crimes must be taken seriously, federal crimes often face very aggressive prosecution because they are considered more serious than state charges. Penalties for federal crimes, even misdemeanors, are usually based on a stronger set of sentencing guidelines. As the charges escalate, the penalties become harsher. Significant restrictions on freedoms or long prison sentences are attached to federal sentencing.

Seek Legal Representation Immediately

When facing serious federal charges, Atlanta trial attorney Jeff Manciagli is the lawyer you want representing you. With two decades of experience, Mr. Manciagli is dedicated to protecting your rights. If you are charged with a federal or state crime, do not wait to seek legal advice. Contact the office of Jeff Manciagli for a free consultation.

Posted on behalf of Jeff Manciagli, Trial Attorney

66 Lenox Pointe NE, Building #66
Atlanta, GA 30324

Phone: (404) 642-9080

Monday & Tuesday 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday & Thursday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM

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Track Record of Success

My firm has a long list of outstanding case results for former clients. I am ready to achieve your legal goals too.

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I will go the extra mile to ensure that your rights and your freedom are protected.

Over 30 Years of Experience

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Case Results

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    Our Client Reviews

    Jeff Manciagli, Trial Attorney

    4.9 / 5.0
    Kurt

    I was very pleased with the services Mr. Manciagli provided. He was professional, explained everything throughly, and most importantly Mr. Manciagli was able to get my case dismissed. I would refer him to anyone seeking legal council. My case was handled with absolute discretion and expertise.

    A.V.

    I Highly Recommend Mr. Manciagli To Anyone looking for a great outcome with whatever their situation might be Mr. Manciagli has been of great help and i am beyond bless Since the day i met him At Only 3 weeks of contacting him for early termination on Federal Supervise Release He Was Able to Get My Motion Granted Which means I Got Early Termination and At All Times Mr Manciagli kept in contact with me kept me informed of my case and answered all my questions and i got the best outcome from this experience Thank You So Much Mr Manciagli Extremely Grateful

    Usha D

    Mr. Manciagli has been a God send help for me in my legal defense. He was very prompt in his response and willing to help and assist as and when needed. He made me feel secured, protected, and well represented. He stepped in and took good care of all of the legal matters. He quickly understood what I was dealing with and knew how to handle the issues on a timely and professional manner. His experience, friendly attitude and mannerism is commendable. Thank you, Mr. Manciagli for your help!

    A. M.

    Mr. Manciagli has done so much in so little time. In less than one month he was able to contact the courts and got me early termination for my supervised release. I am so grateful, he works fast and always stayed in contact with me. I highly recommend my attorney to everyone I am very satisfied with Mr. Manciagli. Very grateful to him for all he has done since the day I met him. He's just the best.

    Client

    Mr. Manciagli has lived and traveled all over the world, including Latin America, and his legal work has taken him to Colombia, Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, and Jamaica. It was important for me, as a foreigner in the U.S., to have an attorney who understood me from a cultural level and who I could speak to in Spanish. If you or a loved one needs a criminal defense attorney, Jeff Manciagli is the attorney you should call.

    Client

    Jeff was recommended by a friend. I am very pleased with the way my case was handled & the outcome was very satisfactory. I would recommend him.

    Client

    Entered into a drug case (1/2 oz of molly & 1g. of marijuana)..... I have 3+ felonies....Jeff got me 6 months house arrest & probation.....definite prison time without him.......reasonable priced....Thanks Jeff.

    N.C.

    My lawyer in FL recommended Jeff when I got arrested in GA and didn't know what to do. I got pulled over in a cash-cow speed trap town 20 miles above the state line and they called a K-9 unit and got probable cause to search my car. I was livid and felt so violated. Luckily I hired the best of the best. Jeff always called/emailed me back promptly when I had questions about my case, and Always spoke to me as an equal. He took care of everything and when it came time to go to court was honest and logical in discussing what was best and how my plea would affect my future. Under his council I felt calm and in control. I was facing 3 misdemeanor charges and got them all dropped on the condition that I do a small amount of community service, pay a fine, and don't get in any more trouble for a few months. I didn't even get points on my license for the original speeding ticket. At the end of the day, money is replaceable- my time and freedom are not. If I or anyone I know ever has trouble in GA again, I will be calling Jeff.

    66 Lenox Pointe NE, Building #66, Atlanta, GA 30324 Phone: (404) 642-9080