Federal Bureau of Investigation

Whether To Cooperate Or Not With The Federal Bureau Of Investigation

The Federal Bureau of Investigation may begin an investigation of persons in your neighborhood or even you. The FBI is usually simple and will ask whether you agree to an interview. You might not know what the discussion is about, but speaking with the agents shouldn’t be an issue if you don’t think you’ve done anything wrong. Before you do anything else, contact your attorney. It would help if you did not speak with the FBI or any other law enforcement officer unless you know your rights and what questions you must or must not answer.

If the FBI contacts you, you must retain the services of a competent criminal defense attorney to advise you on your cooperation. Speaking with law enforcement should not be taken lightly and only be done after consulting with an attorney. David E. Stanley, APLC, has extensive expertise representing clients in federal investigations and will help you make the right choice for your specific circumstance. To schedule a complimentary consultation, please get in touch with us today!

Call David E. Stanley, APLC
At 225-926-0200 Now!

Communicating With The Federal Bureau Of Investigation

How Can You Know Whether The FBI Is Looking Into Your Case?

It is in the FBI’s best interests to keep you in the dark when you are the subject of a federal investigation. For example, suppose you know that federal investigators are investigating your professional practice or business operations. In that case, you will be significantly more likely to seek legal advice and exercise your right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. On the other hand, FBI agents know that if they can persuade you that you are not pursued, they will have a better chance of getting you to say something they can use against you.
The fact that FBI agents have contacted you does not necessarily mean that you are being investigated; nevertheless, it does mean that you should proceed with caution in your circumstance. The FBI agents in charge of the investigation have the upper hand and will take advantage of any leverage they have to the utmost extent possible.

Why Would The FBI Be Investigating In A Case In The First Place?

Federal Bureau of Investigation

The FBI looks into specific federal cases, such as terrorism, rioting, and sabotage. Counterfeiting, human trafficking, mail fraud, and other severe federal offenses are also investigated. Many of the violations they look into are considered crimes against the state. Because these are typically federal offenses, they frequently result in felony charges and substantial danger of lengthy prison sentences. If convicted, you could face hefty fines. It is why you should avoid speaking with the FBI on your own.

Why Wouldn’t You Talk To The FBI Without Your Lawyer Present?

You are in a risky position if you willingly talk to the FBI without the presence of an attorney. You may say or do something that makes you appear implicated in a crime. You may jeopardize your case if you are also involved in an alleged crime.
You may believe that appearing to collaborate with the FBI is vital, but you must be careful how you approach this scenario. Calling a criminal defense attorney before speaking with the FBI doesn’t mean you’re guilty or trying to hide something. It simply demonstrates that you are intelligent and aware of your rights. You’re showing the FBI that you won’t interrogate anything you don’t need to be examined for and that you’ll only answer legitimate inquiries required by law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible To Engage A Lawyer To Communicate Directly With The FBI On My Behalf ?

Yes. When you hire a lawyer, they will speak directly with the FBI on your behalf. In addition, your lawyer will inform the agents working on your case that you have retained legal counsel and will instruct them to contact them instead of you.

If I’m Guilty, How Can A Lawyer Assist Me During An FBI Investigation?

While the FBI can utilize a variety of federal legislation to accuse people and corporations of criminal activity, you should never presume you have committed a federal crime. Aside from interacting with federal officials, one of the biggest mistakes you can make during a federal investigation is assuming you’re guilty. Even if you have done the steps necessary to conduct a federal offense, the best federal defense lawyer may be able to employ a variety of defenses to protect you.

How Long Does It Take The FBI To Complete An Investigation?

It is debatable. An inquiry could result in an arrest and arraignment in a matter of days, or it could take weeks or months for federal prosecutors to determine whether to pursue (or drop) charges, depending on the extent of the investigation and the evidence available.

A Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney

Federal Bureau of Investigation

The FBI is a critical part of our nation’s security, and they need to be able to communicate with the public to solicit information from them. If the FBI has contacted you, you must take the time to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can protect your rights. David E. Stanley, APLC, has years of experience representing clients in federal court, and he understands what the FBI is looking for when they contact someone. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!

Call David E. Stanley, APLC, At 225-926-0200 Now!

David E. Stanley, APLC
1055 Laurel Street Suite 2
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
225-926-0200

A lawyer talks to client about RICO Crimes

Everything You Need To Know About RICO Crimes

Criminal Defense Lawyer

The RICO Act, Sections 1961–68 of Title 18 of the United States Code, describes the areas where the anti-racketeering statute is implemented. The RICO Act changed in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s to reflect changes in the legal and commercial landscapes, and our white-collar law team has kept up with the developments.

Contact a Baton Rouge criminal defense lawyer immediately if you or someone you know is charged with breaching the RICO Act. Our professional trial lawyer maintains up-to-date data on state and federal racketeering statutes, allowing us to give our clients unrivaled RICO knowledge. It includes Congress’ inclusion of mail and wire fraud as offenses that might prosecute under the RICO Act.

David E. Stanley, APLC, represents individuals, not large corporations or institutions. Our legal firm has successfully defended clients accused of various white-collar offenses, including RICO crimes. To decide our plan for your defense, we must first evaluate every detail of the charges against you, including all evidence, witness reports, law enforcement records, and others. Our firm will be your zealous advocate in court, and we take a tough stance in defending our clients against RICO charges.

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Everything You Need To Know About RICO Crimes

What Are RICO Offenses?

RICO offenses fall under the purview of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). This act was passed in 1970 and entered into effect the following year. The purpose was to bring organized crime to justice. As a result, these crimes are in scarce circumstances with a high level of planning and organization. Even minor offenses in the same line are unlikely to qualify. It is illegal for people or organizations to participate in “racketeering activities or the collection of illicit debt,” according to the US Justice Department.

What Is Racketeering?

A lawyer talks to client about RICO Crimes

Financial gain and extortion are common goals of racketeering. It has long been associated with the Mafia and other forms of organized crime in the United States. Some have characterized it as a solution to a problem that the organization caused, such as threatening local companies and requiring owners to pay for “protection” from the same threats. Racketeering has also been linked to the following issues:
Illegal lotteries

  • Prostitution
  • Bootlegging
  • Violent clashes and mob wars
  • Insider trading
  • Manipulation of stock prices

One of the goals of the RICO Act was to make it simpler for police to file charges against criminal organization leaders. It has been previously difficult because leaders would have someone else carry out the crime. The person who ordered it might be arrested, but not the person who called it. Technically, they didn’t break the law. However, under the new statute, authorities gained new authority to charge those who provide the commands, not just those who carry them out, allowing them to combat organized crime in a new way.

What Does a RICO Violation Entail?

In 1970, part of the Organized Crime Control Act, the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act was enacted. The goal of this legislation was to outlaw “racketeering conduct.” Racketeering is defined extensively in 18 USC 1961 to cover a variety of crimes, including:

  • Embezzlement
  • Trafficking in narcotics
  • Laundering of funds
  • Bankruptcy and identity theft

Racketeering includes crimes such as murder, arson, extortion, and bribery that are illegal under state law, as well as violations of federal laws such as theft, obstruction of justice, enslavement, and murder-for-hire.
However, state and federal authorities can only charge someone under the RICO Act if they show a “pattern of racketeering activities.” It means that within ten years, there have been two or more racketeering convictions for similar goals, with similar players, or against similar victims.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Are Different Types Of White-Collar Crimes?

Nonviolent crimes with a financial motive are white-collar crimes. Embezzlement, conspiracy, price manipulation, corporate fraud, and tax fraud are standard charges against firms, executives, and government authorities.

Are These Offenses Usually Classified As Misdemeanors Or Felony Offenses?

The penalty for a white-collar crime conviction varies depending on the case’s circumstances; most white-collar defendants face felony charges. It’s critical to realize that a criminal record can significantly influence your life, whether a misdemeanor or a felony.

Can Criminal Investigations Take Place Concurrently With Civil Lawsuits?

Yes. While defending against civil litigation, businesses and people may be the focus of an investigation. Building a solid defense in both cases necessitates a thorough understanding of legal procedures and case law. Lawyer David E. Stanley, APLC, has the dedication and discipline required to handle complex issues.

The Best Criminal Defense Lawyer

A lawyer talks to client about RICO Crimes

Suppose you are under investigation for a RICO crime or have been arrested and charged with racketeering. In that case, you must speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. David E. Stanley, APLC, has successfully represented clients in complex federal criminal cases across the country and can provide you with the aggressive legal representation you need during this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you fight your charges.

Call David E. Stanley, APLC, At 225-926-0200 Now!

David E. Stanley, APLC
1055 Laurel Street Suite 2
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
225-926-0200

A man arrested at the police station

10 Ways Federal Offenses Can Affect Your Life

Getting convicted of a crime has a lot of adverse effects. First, the state could hold you in custody for some time. You will be required to settle the fines and court costs. Moreover, a criminal record will haunt you for the rest of your life.

When it comes to federal offenses, the consequences of a conviction can be exceptionally severe and challenging to overcome. Your criminal record will follow you around like a shadow. Only conviction and arrest records from within the state will be available to police in some states. Police in Ohio may be unaware of a prior offense in Alaska. On the other hand, a federal criminal record can follow you everywhere you go and may even limit your possibilities when you travel abroad in some situations.

If you have been convicted of a federal offense, you must seek legal advice as soon as possible. Attorney David E. Stanley has years of experience and the necessary knowledge to explain the ramifications of federal offenses to you. Contact him today for a no-obligation consultation!

Getting Back to Society After A Federal Offense?
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at 225-926-0200 Today!

10 Various Outcomes of a Criminal Record

It’s critical to do everything you can to lessen your risk of being prosecuted for a crime, not just to safeguard your freedom now but also to limit how a criminal record can come back to haunt you.

Yes, even a single criminal charge has the power to do so. So what are some implications of a federal criminal conviction after you’ve paid your obligation to society?

1. Job Opportunities

Even if you are acquitted, a criminal charge on your record can make it difficult to find a good job and limit your earning potential. In addition, in most situations, prospective employers have the legal right to do a background check on you and may refuse to hire you based on the results.

Employers may ask you directly if you’ve ever been charged with or convicted of a crime, including misdemeanors and felonies. It would be best to answer honestly, but you are not required to reveal arrests that resulted in no conviction or offenses later expunged from your record.

A hand dividing the mother and child's wooden figures into the father's wooden figure

2. Custody of a Child

A criminal record may limit your child custody rights, especially if the accusation includes domestic abuse or other violent activities. Even a misdemeanor might result in losing custody of your children, mainly if the crime involves family members.

3. Children Adoption

If you were convicted of a misdemeanor with a family member, you wouldn’t be able to adopt a child. You will also be unable to adopt if you have committed an alcohol-related crime.

4. Driving Privileges and Other Benefits

Depending on the gravity of the offense, anyone with a criminal record may lose their ability to drive. A criminal history involving alcohol or other drugs can result in a 180-day suspension of your driver’s license and require you to complete a 15-hour drug education course before regaining your driving privileges.

5. Weapons

You may lose your right to carry a handgun if you are convicted of a crime. This is likely if you have a felony or a Class A misdemeanor on your record. You will not be allowed a license to carry a firearm in such circumstances.

6. Immigration

A criminal record may prevent you from obtaining a green card, changing your immigrant status, or becoming a naturalized U.S citizen if you are a foreign national. In addition, you could lose your job and be deported even if the offense is minor.

7. Consequences of the Offense

Suppose you are charged with a new offense and already have a criminal record. In that case, your previous criminal history may result in more severe penalties if you are convicted and sentenced for the current crime.

8. Admission to a College

A criminal record with a minor offense might make it challenging to get into college or graduate school. This is determined by the policies of each institution or university. In addition, having a sexual or drug-related crime on your record can make it difficult to receive financial aid for college.

A group of new graduates gathers their diploma

9. Medical Licenses

Even if you have a misdemeanor conviction, you may be unable to obtain a healthcare license, such as a nurse’s license, if you have a criminal record.

10. Renting and Leasing

If you have a criminal on your record that occurred within a specified number of years, a landlord may refuse to rent his property to you. The elapsed period won’t matter if you’ve been convicted of a sex offense. The landlord can deny you.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Will I Ever Get a Job with a Criminal Record?

Yes, it is possible to get a job with a criminal record. Many employers hire people with criminal records. It depends on why you have a criminal record and what kind of job you seek if it makes a difference. However, getting a job unrelated to your previous conviction would be better.

Does a Criminal Record Affect Car Insurance?

Yes, having a criminal record can affect car insurance. A criminal record will raise the cost of your vehicle insurance, whether or not your conviction is related to driving. This is because insurers will think you are at a higher risk if you have a criminal record. This is because your insurance considers all convictions, including robbery and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

How Is A Person’s Life Changed When Charged with a Crime?

A person charged with a crime may be psychologically affected. While the short-term consequences of crime might be devastating, most people do not experience long-term effects. However, people occasionally suffer long-term issues like depression or anxiety-related disorders. In addition, a small percentage of people experience a severe, long-lasting reaction to a crime, known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Criminal Defense Attorney Available

Having a reliable criminal defense attorney on your side is critical if you want to keep the charge off your record. Contact David E. Stanley, APLC, today if you live in Baton Rouge, LA. Mr. Stanley is an accomplished defense lawyer ready to assist you with your legal issues. For a free consultation, give us a call right now.

Looking for a Criminal Defense Attorney?
Call David E. Stanley
at 225-926-0200 Today!

David E. Stanley, APLC
1055 Laurel Street Suite 2
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
225-926-0200