International parental child abduction is a serious and emotionally charged issue, with thousands of cases reported worldwide each year. One of the most important legal tools for resolving these disputes is the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
This treaty is designed to ensure the prompt return of children wrongfully removed from their country of habitual residence and to protect their rights during cross-border custody disputes.
In federal criminal trials, expert witnesses often play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of a case. Their testimony can clarify complex scientific, technical, or professional issues for the judge and jury, helping them understand key elements that go beyond common knowledge.
In Florida and across the U.S., federal cases follow the Federal Rules of Evidence, which govern how and when expert testimony can be used. Experts are typically called upon in areas such as forensic science, digital evidence, medical evaluations, financial crimes, and mental health assessments. For example, in a federal fraud case, a forensic accountant might testify about irregularities in financial records. In a drug trafficking case, a DEA agent could explain the logistics and patterns associated with organized distribution.
To be admitted in court, expert testimony must meet certain standards, most notably the Daubert standard, which is used in federal courts and in Florida. This standard ensures that the expert’s methods are scientifically valid and have been properly applied to the facts of the case. The judge acts as a “gatekeeper,” deciding whether the expert’s opinion is reliable and relevant.
When a defendant has been convicted and has exhausted all direct appeals, all hope may seem lost. However, legal remedies still exist, especially if the law has changed after the conviction or if the defendant’s trial or appellate attorney provided ineffective assistance. In such cases, post-conviction relief may be available.
Post-conviction relief (also known as collateral relief) provides defendants an opportunity to challenge their conviction or sentence based on factors not raised during the original trial or direct appeal. These challenges are typically based on:
Facing federal conspiracy charges can be an incredibly stressful and confusing experience. These charges are serious and can lead to substantial prison time—even if the underlying crime was never carried out. Understanding what conspiracy means under federal law, and how a skilled defense attorney can help, is essential if you or someone you care about is under investigation or indictment.
What Is a Federal Conspiracy Charge?
A federal conspiracy charge is based on two key elements: an agreement between two or more people to commit a federal crime, and at least one overt act taken in furtherance of that agreement. The crime itself doesn’t need to occur for charges to be filed. Simply being involved in the planning or taking a step—no matter how small—can be enough for a federal case.
Mail Fraud is a serious criminal “white collar” offense regulated by Title 18 United States Code section 1341; it is punishable by up to 20 years in jail and serious fines. Mail fraud can be proven by the government at a trial if it can show the defendant engaged in a scheme to defraud through the use of the mails which affected interstate commerce..
Mr Cohen has handled many of these cases over the years,
The key to success in cases like this is to closely evaluate the defendant’s defenses and determine whether after reviewing the discovery and evidence in each matter whether the case is one in which a trial or a plea disposition is in the best interest of the client. Mr Cohen closely analyzes each of the facts in these types of cases and then makes a recommendation to the client who of course always reserves the final decision as to whether he wants to proceed to trial or resolve the case with a plea agreement
If you or someone you know is dealing with immigration concerns in Florida, it’s important to understand how federal immigration violations can seriously affect your legal status in the U.S. Even a seemingly minor misstep can trigger life-changing consequences, especially in a state like Florida where immigration enforcement is often prioritized.
Federal immigration violations may include overstaying a visa, entering the country without inspection, or violating the terms of a visa or green card. These offenses can lead to removal (deportation) proceedings, detention, or a permanent bar from returning to the United States. For individuals applying for permanent residency or citizenship, these violations can cause long delays or even outright denials.
In Florida, the consequences can be even more complex due to cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. For example, if someone is arrested for a state-level offense, their information might be shared with federal agencies, increasing the risk of immigration-related detention or deportation.
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act has long been one of the most formidable tools in the federal government’s arsenal against organized crime. While initially created to target the Mafia, RICO’s scope has broadened, enabling prosecutors to pursue cases involving fraud, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and corruption. As a criminal defense attorney with extensive experience in RICO cases, Michael B. Cohen has seen firsthand how these charges are pursued—and the impact they can have on the accused.
RICO charges are not limited to traditional organized crime; they can encompass any group operating as an “enterprise” that engages in a pattern of racketeering activity. This activity could include a range of offenses, from money laundering to wire fraud, with prosecutors needing to prove at least two predicate offenses within ten years. This broad application makes RICO a highly complex legal challenge.
Florida, with its unique position as an economic and cultural hub, often becomes the focal point for RICO cases. From South Florida’s history with drug cartels to the modern dismantling of fraudulent Medicare and Medicaid operations, the state has seen a wide variety of RICO prosecutions. These cases frequently involve sweeping allegations and hefty penalties, which can be overwhelming for those charged.
Federal immigration violations can lead to life-altering consequences, especially in a state like Florida, where immigration is an integral part of the community and workforce. These violations can range from overstaying a visa and unauthorized employment to unlawful entry or misrepresentation on official documents. Each carries serious legal and personal ramifications, requiring prompt attention and a strong defense.
The consequences of federal immigration violations are severe and far-reaching. Deportation is one of the most immediate outcomes, often separating families and uprooting lives built over years. In addition, individuals may face permanent bars from reentering the United States, fines, and even criminal charges that can result in imprisonment. For those pursuing legal status, naturalization, or a green card, an immigration violation can derail their plans entirely, sometimes making it nearly impossible to achieve lawful residency in the future.
Florida’s unique role as an immigration hub adds complexity to these cases. Federal authorities in the state often work closely with local law enforcement to identify and prosecute immigration violations, leading to heightened enforcement actions. This makes it essential for anyone accused of a violation to understand their rights and build a strong legal defense.
In today’s digital age, cybercrime has become an increasingly prevalent issue, with federal law defining a range of offenses that can have serious legal consequences. Cybercrime encompasses various illegal activities conducted via the internet or computer systems, and understanding what constitutes a federal cyber offense is crucial for both individuals and businesses.
One of the most common types of federal cyber offenses is hacking, which involves unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. This can include stealing sensitive data, altering information, or disrupting services. The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) serves as the primary federal statute addressing hacking and related activities, making it illegal to access a computer without authorization or to use a computer to commit fraud. Penalties under the CFAA can range from fines to significant prison time, depending on the offense’s severity and impact.
Another significant category of federal cybercrime is identity theft, where an individual illegally obtains and uses someone else’s personal information for fraudulent purposes. This can involve stealing credit card information, Social Security numbers, or bank account details. The Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act (ITADA) makes it a federal crime to commit identity theft, with harsh penalties for those convicted, including hefty fines and prison sentences.
Federal firearms offenses are serious crimes that carry strict penalties and are governed by multiple U.S. laws, all aimed at maintaining public safety and preventing gun-related violence. These offenses range from unlawful possession to trafficking and using firearms during other crimes.
Unlawful Possession and Transfer of Firearms
Federal law prohibits certain individuals from owning or possessing firearms. These include convicted felons, people with specific mental health conditions, those with restraining orders, and individuals convicted of domestic violence. A violation of these restrictions can lead to up to 10 years in federal prison. Additionally, firearm transfers must go through licensed dealers, and private sales require background checks in some states. Selling or transferring a firearm without complying with these requirements can result in severe penalties, particularly if the firearm is used in a crime.
South Florida Criminal Attorneys Blog
