Federal Sex Crime Attorney in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Federal Sex Crime Lawyer

If you were charged with a Federal Sex Crime, you face some of the most strict and harsh penalties of any crime. Sex crimes are taken very seriously and if convicted, will ensure a lengthy jail sentence, fines, required registration as sex offender, as well as the detrimental effect on your personal life.

There are a large number of offenses that fall into the category of sex crimes. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be charged with more than one crime, and possibly face state charges as well. Each crime carries its own penalties—some federal sex crimes having mandatory minimum sentencing if convicted.

An arrest is not a conviction.

In order to properly defend yourself, you will need a strong Federal Sex Crime Attorney in Pennsylvania who is not only licensed to practice in federal court, but is also aware of the federal laws, federal sentencing guidelines and federal rules of civil procedure.

At Ketchel Law, we are Pennsylvania Federal Attorneys who are well-versed in both state and federal court systems and can help you understand your rights and your options to fight against your charges.

If you were indicted on a federal sex crime, or think you may be charged or are under investigation, contact Attorney Justin J. Ketchel immediately for a free case evaluation.

 

OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL: GETTING YOUR CRIMINAL CHARGES DISMISSED.

Call 412-456-1221 for a free consultation

PITTSBURGH FEDERAL CRIME LAWYERS

 

COMMONLY CHARGED FEDERAL SEX CRIMES

Not all sex crimes that are committed will be tried in federal court. Federal Courts have the power to determine which cases they choose to try and which they will leave to be tried at the state level. Generally speaking, federal courts will choose to try only the most egregious sex crimes; those most severe or aggravated, or those where their jurisdiction takes precedence.

Instances of sex crimes being charged in Federal Court can include, but are not limited to:

  • During the commission of the crime, state lines were crossed. This can be virtual, as well, and includes the use of the internet;
  • When the crime involved a child or minor;
  • The sex crime is being charged in addition to another serious crime such as kidnapping;
  • The crime occurred on federal land.

It is possible that your charges could be brought in state court and moved to federal court, or vice versa, depending on the seriousness of the crime. The US Supreme Court has stated that this will not be considered double jeopardy.

Some of the most commonly charged Federal Sex Crimes include:

From the list, it is clear that in many of these cases the crimes are likely to have crossed state lines in the commission of the act, either physically or via the internet. They are also some of the most serious sex crimes one can commit.

Remember, being charged with a crime, does not mean that you will be convicted.  It is extremely important that you are represented properly throughout the duration of your case.

If you suspect you are under investigation for a federal crime, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible.

For a free evaluation of your case, please call Attorney Justin Ketchel today at 412-456-1221.

SEX CRIME CHARGES AT FEDERAL LEVEL

It is important to understand how a sex crime unfolds so you know if you are at risk of facing federal charges for your crime.

An act takes place and is usually initially reported and investigated at a local level, to local or state police. The local authorities will begin their investigation. If at any time, the case appears to qualify for federal prosecution, local authorities will report to federal law enforcement or a local judge to determine if the case should be pursued by federal authorities. The federal court will decide if it will pursue the case further or not.

Federal courts usually choose the most severe cases, or those they believe have a high chance of success. In addition, they tend to have more resources than the state or local level, and thus, investigations are longer and more intense. This can make defense tricky, as well as more time consuming and costly. It is of the utmost importance to have an attorney who is not only highly skilled, but also knowledgeable in the federal system.

 

OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL: GETTING YOUR CRIMINAL CHARGES DISMISSED.

Call 412-456-1221 for a free consultation

PITTSBURGH FEDERAL CRIME LAWYERS

 

PUNISHMENT FOR SEX CRIMES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL

The punishment for conviction of a sex crimes depends on the crime committed and the circumstances of the case. In state court, the punishment can swing a bit more. Federal court has sentencing guidelines and are more strict.

Federal sex crimes often carry mandatory minimum sentencing. This means that if convicted, you will be required to serve a jail sentence in a federal prison. This can be difficult for some people because there is a chance your prison term will be served far from home and thus makes it difficult to have visitors.

Mandatory minimum sentences for sex crimes include:

  • Child pornography Distribution and Receipt offenses: A minimum of 5 years in federal prison;
  • Trading and Distribution of Child Pornography: A minimum of 5 years in federal prison;
  • Production of Child Pornography: A minimum of 15 years in federal prison.

These mandatory minimum sentences do not take into account any aggravating factors, additional crimes charged, repeat offenses or any other punishments such as fines and mandatory sex offender registration.

If you are convicted of a sex crime in a federal court you will be punished harshly and strictly. Having the proper representation is highly important in such cases.

How Ketchel Law Can Help

We will stick with you from start to finish.

From the moment you engage Ketchel Law to represent you, we will work tirelessly to ensure every aspect of your defense is addressed at every phase.

We will make certain you understand your rights and options so that you are prepared at every turn. From pre-trial hearings through the trial and beyond, we will fight to have your charges dropped or significantly reduced.

It is extremely important that you have a knowledgeable and experienced federal crimes attorney on your side. Federal charges are prosecuted much differently than state charges.

Sex offense conviction leaves your whole future at stake. We understand what you are going through and will tirelessly fight on your behalf to ensure that your arrest has a minimal impact on every aspect of your life.

An aggressive and meticulous attorney will gather all evidence and facts about your case, presenting your history to make the best possible defense.

We will attempt to discredit evidence not in your favor and work closely with you to find the best course of action in defending your rights and your freedom and protecting your future.

Learn more about Sex Crime Charges in Pennsylvania:

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CALL KETCHEL LAW NOW FOR A FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION AT 412-456-1221.

OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL: GETTING YOUR CHARGES DISMISSED.

CALL KETCHEL LAW TODAY: 412-456-1221

FREE CONSULTATION