Some crimes are prosecuted at both the state and federal level. Usually, crimes are tried in the jurisdiction where they occur. However, sometimes the lines cross if the crime is committed on federal property. An example would be a crime that occurs at the post office. The federal government would have jurisdiction. On the other hand, the government has the authority to handle crimes that involve interstate commerce, drugs, kidnapping and bank robbery. In some instances, the federal government will let the state handle the case and vice versa.
A Criminal Lawyer in Hattiesburg MS has the experience to handle cases in federal and state courts. Contact Defense Attorney at T Michael Reed to schedule a consultation. State Courts handle far more crimes than federal courts. Indeed, federal court cases tend to be tied to incidents that affect everyone. For instance, many of the recent high-profile federal cases relate to domestic terrorism.
Federal courts hear fewer cases so the Criminal Lawyer in Hattiesburg MS may have more time to prepare for the case. One of the major differences between state and federal court is that federal sentencing is harsher. The federal government has sentencing guides for judges to follow. These rules were designed so sentencing would be equitable and consistent. A judge does not have to follow the guidelines but must explain why he did not in the ruling.
The guidelines place crimes on one of 43 offense levels. Each defendant is placed in a criminal history category based upon their record. The crime and the prior criminal history play a role in the defendant’s range of sentencing. There are several reasons for the guidelines to be adjusted including that the offender did not play a major role in the crime (sentence is adjusted downward) or the offender took advantage of someone because of a physical disability (sentence is adjusted upward).
The sentence can also be adjusted downwards if the accused admits their role in the crime. The consequences for state and federal crimes can be very serious. That is why it is important to consult a Criminal Lawyer in Hattiesburg MS.
