Fighting Federal Charges.
At Benzaken, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we understand the seriousness of facing federal criminal charges. Federal crimes are prosecuted by the FBI, DEA, IRS, and ATF in U.S. District Court — and carry penalties far harsher than state-level offenses. Securing experienced federal defense counsel immediately is essential.
U.S. District Court · District of Massachusetts
Trial-ready in federal court.
Over 4,000 federal statutes — and stakes far higher than state court.
Federal crimes are violations of United States law that often involve activity crossing state lines or having a nationwide impact. They are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal court, and penalties — including mandatory minimums — are routinely harsher than state-level offenses.
Federal investigations are conducted by highly specialized agencies with vast resources. If you are under investigation, you may receive a target letter from the U.S. Attorney's Office signaling that you are the focus of their inquiry. Immediate legal representation at this stage is critical to potentially avoid arrest and indictment.
Federal Investigation Agencies
From white-collar indictments to drug trafficking conspiracies.
Our team has successfully defended clients against federal charges including extortion, drug trafficking, wire fraud, armed robbery, money laundering, tax fraud and evasion, and grand larceny — securing reduced sentences and case dismissals.
Drug Trafficking & Conspiracy
Federal narcotics indictments under Title 21 — distribution, conspiracy, and trafficking carrying mandatory minimums.
Wire & Mail Fraud
18 U.S.C. §§ 1341, 1343 schemes involving interstate communications, often paired with conspiracy charges.
Money Laundering
18 U.S.C. § 1956 prosecutions tied to fraud, narcotics, or organized financial activity across state lines.
Tax Fraud & Evasion
IRS criminal investigations, false return filings, and Title 26 tax evasion charges with substantial restitution exposure.
White Collar & Embezzlement
Bank fraud, securities fraud, healthcare fraud, and complex embezzlement schemes prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys.
Internet Sex Offenses
Federal charges involving internet-based child pornography and interstate communications under 18 U.S.C. § 2252.
Extortion & Armed Robbery
Hobbs Act extortion, armed bank robbery, and federal violent crime indictments with severe sentencing exposure.
Counterfeiting & Kidnapping
Currency counterfeiting, identity theft, and interstate kidnapping prosecuted under federal criminal statutes.
Federal sentences are often more severe — with mandatory minimums.
Federal cases involve violations of federal law or crimes that cross state lines, and federal agencies bring vastly greater resources than local law enforcement. Convictions carry consequences that can reshape a life permanently.
A defense built before the indictment lands.
Defending against federal charges requires a strategic and informed approach. We tailor every defense to the facts — challenging how evidence was obtained, disputing federal jurisdiction where appropriate, questioning intent, and negotiating from a position of strength when a resolution serves our client's interests.
Federal cases involve unique procedures, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and rules that differ sharply from state court. Having counsel familiar with the federal system can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
- Challenging evidence under federal constitutional standards
- Disputing federal jurisdiction when state court is appropriate
- Questioning knowledge and intent at every stage
- Negotiating reduced charges and sentencing positions
Preparation Wins Cases
Every federal file built for trial from day one.
We represent clients at every stage of a federal case.
Target Letter & Pre-Indictment
If you receive a target letter from the U.S. Attorney's Office, immediate counsel can shape the investigation — and sometimes prevent an indictment entirely.
Initial Appearance & Detention
Federal detention hearings move fast. We fight for release and favorable conditions under the Bail Reform Act from the first appearance.
Discovery & Motion Practice
Aggressive Rule 12 motion practice — suppression, dismissal, severance, and challenges to wiretaps, search warrants, and grand jury process.
Trial, Sentencing & Appeal
We try federal cases when we have to and litigate the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines aggressively, with appellate review when warranted.
Contact a Federal Defense Attorney
If you are under federal investigation or have been indicted, the sooner you contact us, the better your chances of building a strong defense.
Real attorneys.
One call away.
When the call comes in, you speak with a partner not a screener. Every consultation is confidential, and we respond to every inquiry, typically within hours.
Brockton, MA 02301
After-hours by appointment