Charged in Federal Court? You Need Strategic Legal Defense Now

Federal charges are different from state charges in nearly every way—they move faster, carry harsher penalties, and are prosecuted by experienced Assistant U.S. Attorneys backed by federal investigative agencies. If you’ve been arrested, indicted, or contacted by the FBI, DEA, ATF, or IRS in New Jersey, your first move should be to retain a federal criminal defense lawyer with the skill to fight on that level.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend individuals and small business owners in Cherry Hill, Trenton, and throughout South Jersey against federal charges in the District of New Jersey. Whether you’re under investigation or already indicted, we provide immediate representation, pretrial strategy, and trial defense for complex, high-stakes cases.

Types of Federal Charges We Handle

We represent clients charged with the following federal crimes:

• Wire fraud, mail fraud, and bank fraud (18 U.S.C. §§ 1341–1343)
• Drug trafficking and conspiracy (21 U.S.C. §§ 841–846)
• White collar crimes (tax evasion, embezzlement, bribery, PPP fraud)
• Federal firearm offenses (18 U.S.C. § 922)
• Computer crimes and cybercrime (18 U.S.C. §§ 1030–1038)
• Health care fraud and insurance fraud
• Public corruption and campaign finance violations
• Money laundering and structuring (18 U.S.C. § 1956)
• Federal sex crimes and exploitation cases
• Interstate domestic violence, kidnapping, or threats
• Immigration-related criminal charges

We also advise clients under grand jury investigation and those served with subpoenas or federal target letters.

Federal Court vs. State Court: What’s the Difference?

Federal criminal cases are prosecuted in U.S. District Court and governed by the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Major differences include:

• Speed: Federal indictments move fast. You may face a detention hearing within 72 hours.
• Sentencing Guidelines: Harsh and formula-driven; enhancements apply for leadership roles, weapon use, and criminal history.
• Discovery: The government often has months of wiretaps, surveillance, or forensic data prepared.
• Investigative Resources: Federal agencies (FBI, DEA, IRS) build complex cases with unlimited time and budget.
• Trial: The U.S. Attorney’s Office has highly trained prosecutors. You need equally prepared defense counsel.

Our Federal Defense Strategy

We develop each federal case around four core goals:

1. Early Intervention – Engaging before indictment, responding to target letters, and negotiating pre-charge resolutions.
2. Pretrial Suppression – Challenging wiretap orders, search warrants, and evidentiary defects under the Fourth and Fifth Amendments.
3. Plea Strategy or Trial Readiness – Assessing sentencing exposure and making informed decisions based on facts and federal guidelines.
4. Mitigation & Sentencing Advocacy – Presenting rehabilitation evidence, cooperation credits, and compelling narratives at sentencing.

In federal court, preparation isn’t optional—it’s the difference between freedom and a decade in prison.

Where We Defend Clients in Federal Court

We represent clients throughout the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, including:

• Camden Vicinage (Mitchell H. Cohen Federal Courthouse)
• Trenton Vicinage (Clarkson S. Fisher Federal Building)
• Newark Vicinage (MLK Jr. Federal Building, for multi-defendant matters)

We also handle extradition, removal, and preliminary proceedings related to federal charges filed outside New Jersey.

Federal Criminal Defense FAQs

What happens if I receive a federal target letter?
You are likely under investigation and may be indicted. Contact a federal defense lawyer immediately. Anything you say to investigators can be used against you.

Can I be released on bail for federal charges?
Possibly. The Bail Reform Act allows for detention if you’re a flight risk or danger. We fight for release using character evidence, ties to the community, and alternatives like home confinement.

Will my sentence be longer in federal court?
Federal sentences often exceed state penalties due to mandatory minimums and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. We use downward departures, cooperation, and mitigation to reduce exposure.

Is there parole in the federal system?
No. There is no parole in federal court. You will serve at least 85% of your sentence, with limited reductions for good behavior or program participation.

Can I avoid indictment if I cooperate early?
In some cases, yes. Early intervention by your attorney may lead to non-prosecution agreements or reduced charges if cooperation is timely and substantial.

Speak With a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you’re facing federal charges—or think you might be—do not wait. Federal prosecutors move quickly, and delays only strengthen their case. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we know the federal system inside and out. We act fast, build leverage, and work relentlessly to protect your rights.

Call (856) 209-3111 or email [email protected] to schedule a confidential consultation. Your future depends on the next decision you make—start with the right legal team.