Orlando Federal Investigation Lawyer

Honest Orlando Federal Investigation Attorney

Many individuals or businesses first learn that they are the subject of a federal investigation after receiving a subpoena or target letter, a grand jury request, or an investigator’s contact information. If you or a loved one is the subject of a federal investigation, learning about your legal rights and the federal process can help you make informed decisions before criminal charges are filed. An Orlando federal investigation lawyer can represent you throughout this process.

A Law Firm You Can Trust

The Kirlew Law Firm is a Florida law firm that represents clients with complex criminal matters in state and federal court. Brian Kirlew, the founding attorney at The Kirlew Law Firm, is a board-certified criminal trial lawyer, a designation earned by less than 2% of Florida attorneys. He has personally tried more than 5,000 cases and 65 jury trials, and he has taken more than 7,500 depositions. 

This courtroom experience in both state and federal court enables the firm to represent people subject to federal investigations. Call an Orlando federal criminal defense lawyer at the firm as soon as you learn you are under investigation.

Understanding Federal Investigations

A federal investigation is the process used by federal law enforcement agencies to determine if a federal crime has been committed. Many state criminal cases begin with an arrest, but federal investigations can last months or years before a prosecutor decides whether to seek an indictment. 

Numerous federal agencies may work together to gather evidence and build a case. Investigators may eventually present the information and evidence they find to a federal grand jury. Federal investigations can involve many types of alleged offenses. Some of these include:

• Healthcare fraud
• Wire fraud
• Identity theft
• Money laundering
• Drug crimes
• Child exploitation
• Cyber crimes
• Firearms crimes

Each federal investigation case is different, and the specific federal laws may depend on the conduct that is under investigation. When you hire a federal investigation lawyer, they can explain the laws that apply to your case.

What Makes a Crime a Federal Offense?

When a criminal law is violated, it is either a federal crime or a state crime. State crimes are prosecuted by a state’s district attorney or equivalent in a state court under state law. Federal crimes are investigated by federal agencies and prosecuted by United States Attorneys’ Offices in federal courts. In some instances, conduct can be criminalized both at the state and federal levels, so a person can be prosecuted under both jurisdictions. 

Typically, federal jurisdiction is established when the alleged offense has a connection to: 

• Interstate trade
• U.S. government property
• Federal organizations
• Financial entities with federal backing
• Behavior spanning multiple states or countries
• Mail
• Wire communications
• Immigration
• Federal tax and tariff laws
• Government programs
• Significant financial transactions

In 2024, there were 2,773 crimes in Florida reported to the United States Sentencing Commission. The most common categories were for drugs, 28.7%, and immigration, 20.2%. Fraud, theft, and embezzlement accounted for 16.6% of crimes. 

Relevant Federal Investigation Laws

Many federal investigation laws will apply to different federal cases. Section 3231 of the U.S. Code serves as a foundational federal law, granting U.S. district courts the primary authority to preside over cases concerning violations of federal statutes. It is one of the most common sources of federal criminal jurisdiction. 

The Commerce Clause, Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution, is another source of federal criminal law. Congress has the power to regulate commerce among the several states. Many federal criminal statutes find their basis in this constitutional provision, especially if the alleged conduct in some way either affects interstate commerce or uses an interstate communication, transportation, or financial system. 

Federal Criminal Proceedings in Orlando 

Most federal criminal cases in Central Florida are tried at the George C. Young Federal Annex Courthouse, 401 West Washington St, Orlando, Florida 32801. Federal court is very different from Florida state court. 

A grand jury indictment might occur, large volumes of evidence could be uncovered, federal sentencing guidelines apply, and a federal judge or U.S. Magistrate Judge presides over hearings. The differences in procedures and how cases are tried are important in preparing for a federal criminal case. 

For those working at a business near downtown Orlando, the Central Business District, or along Interstate 4, many federal investigations are conducted by federal agencies with local offices rather than local police departments.

FAQs

What Triggers a Federal Investigation?

A federal investigation may be triggered for several reasons, including:

• A tip by a whistleblower
• Financial reports
• State referrals
• Suspicious activity
• Information uncovered from another investigation

Federal agencies may also proactively analyze data to identify unusual financial activity or potential violations of federal law. 

The specific circumstances that trigger an investigation depend on the nature of the alleged offense and the evidence available to the agency. 

Is It Legal to Interfere With a Federal Investigation?

No, it is illegal to interfere with a federal investigation. Interfering with a federal investigation is itself a federal crime, which can result in separate criminal charges. Interfering can include destroying evidence, intimidating a witness, and lying to investigators. This is true even if no underlying crime is ultimately proven, and conduct that obstructs a federal investigation can result in significant legal consequences. 

What Happens When You Are Under Federal Investigation?

What happens when a person is under federal investigation can differ, but before recommending charges, federal agents may:

• Gather evidence, like documents and financial records.
• Interview people.
• Serve search warrants.
• Issue grand jury subpoenas. 

Some people receive target or subject letters, while others may not discover that they are under investigation until they are arrested or indicted. Many federal investigations end without any criminal charges being filed. 

How Long Can Federal Investigations Last?

The length of federal investigations can vary widely, but they often last several months. Sometimes, they can even continue for years. Some crimes can take a short time, while others take longer, as investigators often need to analyze large volumes of records and coordinate with other agencies. There is no standard time limit, and each investigation can proceed at a different pace. 

Hire a Federal Investigation Lawyer Today

If you are under federal investigation, contact The Kirlew Law Firm right away. An Orlando federal investigation attorney from our team can represent your case while advocating for your rights and future.