Naples Criminal Defense Attorneys

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a federal crime?

A federal crime, or federal offense, is an action which is illegal under federal statutes. Federal crimes also include those criminal offenses committed on federal property and crimes committed which involved crossed state lines or national borders. Some common examples of federal crimes include government fraud, bank robbery and kidnapping.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

Felonies and misdemeanors are differentiated based upon the potential penalties that the criminal offenses may carry. A misdemeanor is an offense which is punishable by up to 1 year in a county correctional facility. A felony is an offense which is punishable by death or imprisonment in a state penitentiary (state correctional facility) for a minimum of 1 year. Some crimes may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending upon the circumstances of the case. These are referred to as “wobblers.”

What is a white collar crime?

A white collar crime is a criminal offense which is most often a non-violent theft or fraud crime committed by an individual in a business or political environment, usually in a position of power or trust. Some common examples of white collar crimes include: fraud, embezzlement and identity theft.

Are juvenile crimes handled differently than adult crimes?

Yes. The Florida juvenile court system follows its own set of rules and procedures, and a juvenile faces different types of penalties than an adult. It is for these reasons that a defense attorney must be knowledgeable and experienced specifically with the juvenile court system and juvenile crimes in order to provide effective representation to a minor who is facing criminal charges.

How can a defense lawyer help me?

A defense lawyer can help initially by answering any questions you may have and by reviewing your particular situation. It is impossible to say whether you need legal representation and what you are up against without reviewing your case and charges, and an experienced lawyer can do this. If you decide to work with a lawyer, he or she can then begin protecting your rights immediately. This will include advising you regarding your case and essentially acting as your voice and representation through all criminal proceedings. This includes conducting independent investigations and working with expert witnesses in the field to build a strong defense strategy on your behalf.

If I have not been charged with any crime, is it still a good idea to consult an attorney?

It is wise to consult an attorney if you have been contacted by local law enforcement or by a federal agency for questioning in regards to a criminal offense. It is important to find out whether you are a suspect in the investigation; if you are, it is essential to have an attorney at your side. While you may want to do whatever you can to cooperate with law enforcement, doing so without legal counsel may result in law enforcement overstepping their bounds and violating your rights, or you unintentionally incriminating yourself.

At Musca Law, we are committed to helping people just like you who are facing criminal charges or any type of legal matter. We take on cases throughout all of Collier County, Florida, including in Naples, Marco Island, Everglades City and the surrounding areas.

Contact a Naples defense attorney at Musca Law today!