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Writer's pictureAttorney Sean Buckley

10 Key Differences Between Federal and State Crimes


10 Key Differences Between Federal and State Crimes
10 Key Differences Between Federal and State Crimes

When facing criminal charges, understanding the distinction between federal and state crimes is crucial. Sean Buckley, a federal and state criminal defense attorney at The Law Offices of Sean Buckley in Gulfport and Pascagoula, Mississippi, offers over 25 years of experienced legal representation. This blog explores the essential differences between federal and state crimes, providing valuable insights to help you navigate these complex legal situations.


1. Jurisdiction and Authority:


  • Federal Crimes: Prosecuted by federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF in federal court.

  • State Crimes: Prosecuted by state or local law enforcement in state courts.


Clients of The Law Offices of Sean Buckley benefit from extensive experience in both federal and state jurisdictions. Mr. Buckley served as trial co-counsel and diplomatic liaison for U.S. businessman Larry Davis, who was charged in the Dominican Republic in 2016 with trafficking 980 kilograms of cocaine and heroin. Following months of coordinated diplomatic efforts through the U.S. Department of State and a highly publicized two-month trial in Santo Domingo, a Dominican federal court found Larry Davis “Not Guilty” of all charges.


2. Types of Crimes:


  • Federal Crimes: Includes drug trafficking, immigration violations, cybercrimes, and white-collar crimes.

  • State Crimes: Involves theft, assault, burglary, and state-level drug charges.


With over 25 years of experience, criminal defense attorney Sean Buckley has defended clients against a wide range of charges including; Money Laundering, Drug Crimes, Health Care Fraud, Conspiracy, Fraud and Financial Crimes, and all Federal Crimes.


3. Legal Process:


  • Federal Crimes: Involves federal procedures and guidelines, with investigations by federal agencies.

  • State Crimes: Follows state-specific procedures with local law enforcement.


Attorney Sean Buckley provides the necessary guidance for both federal and state legal processes.


4. Penalties and Sentencing:


  • Federal Crimes: Often more severe due to federal sentencing guidelines.

  • State Crimes: Penalties vary by state and offense.


The Law Offices of Sean Buckley helps clients navigate complex sentencing guidelines.


5. Prosecutorial Entities:


  • Federal Crimes: Prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys from the Department of Justice.

  • State Crimes: Prosecuted by district attorneys or state prosecutors.


Mr. Buckley has successfully handled numerous high-stakes and high-profile cases. His reputation for zealous advocacy has earned him a distinguished list of past clients including a former U.S. Congressman Steve Stockman, former U.S. District Judge Samuel B. Kent, the CEO of a billion-dollar worldwide financial services company, a decorated NASA astronaut, national recording artists, doctors, lawyers, teachers, military service members, and many other good people from all walks of life.


6. Investigation and Evidence Gathering:


  • Federal Crimes: Investigated by federal agencies with specialized tools and nationwide resources.

  • State Crimes: Investigated by state or local agencies with more localized resources.


The Law Offices of Sean Buckley offers effective defense strategies in complex investigations. We provide Spanish-speaking translation services to clients who do not speak English upon request. Mr. Buckley's wife, Marisol Quijano Buckley, is fluent in Spanish and works closely with our Spanish-speaking clients and their family members.


7. Appeals and Legal Challenges:


  • Federal Crimes: Appeals are heard by federal appellate courts.

  • State Crimes: Appeals are generally heard by state appellate courts.


Advice on navigating the appeals process is provided by The Law Offices of Sean Buckley.


8. Bail and Bond:


  • Federal Crimes: Bail hearings may be more stringent.

  • State Crimes: Bail conditions vary by state.


Criminal defense attorney Sean Buckley advocates for favorable bail conditions in both federal and state cases.


9. Impact on Defendants:


  • Federal Crimes: Long-lasting consequences including travel restrictions and permanent records.

  • State Crimes: Significant consequences varying by state laws.


Understanding these impacts is crucial, and The Law Offices of Sean Buckley offers comprehensive advice.


10. Examples and Case Studies:


  • Federal Crimes: Major drug trafficking or financial fraud investigations.

  • State Crimes: Local cases or unique state laws.


Attorney Sean Buckley’s impressive track record includes a notable “Not Guilty” verdict in a $120 million healthcare fraud trial.


Why Hiring a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney is Crucial:

Understanding these differences is essential for anyone facing criminal charges.

The Law Offices of Sean Buckley provides experienced legal representation with over 25 years of experience, with offices in Pascagoula and Gulfport, Mississippi. For serious charges, don’t leave your defense to chance. Don't let a criminal charge ruin the rest of your life! We're here to help.


OR CALL US TODAY AT 228-933-4411




AV-Preeminent Rated (Top 1%)
AV-Preeminent Rated (Top 1%)


Best of Coastal Mississippi (Winner)
Best of Coastal Mississippi (Winner)

Federal Drug Crime Case- "Not Guilty"
Federal Drug Crime Case- "Not Guilty"

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