Washington DC Criminal Defense Lawyer

David Benowitz is an experienced attorney with a successful track record of fighting for his clients. As a criminal defense lawyer in Washington, DC, Mr. Benowitz is committed to providing the highest level criminal defense at affordable prices.

Mr. Benowitz is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell, has earned a perfect 10 rating by AVVO, and is a member of the National College of DUI Defense. He is also the only Washington, DC-based criminal defense attorney who has been board-certified as a criminal advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Mr. Benowitz is also a faculty member at Harvard Law School’s Trial Advocacy Workshop.

If you are contacted by any law enforcement agency, do not make any statements, even those denying involvement, as they will most likely be used to build a case against you later. Politely decline to comment and then contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. The sooner an experienced lawyer begins an investigation, the better your chance of defeating the government’s case.

Federal Charges

While many criminal charges are tried in DC Superior Court, some offenses constitute a violation of federal law. These offenses are prosecuted by the United States government and, as a result, have the full force of a number of federal agencies supporting the prosecution. Agencies conducting investigations, undercover operations, and sting operations on behalf of the government include:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATF)
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Any offense that occurs on federal property can be charged as a federal crime. In addition, white collar crimes, cybercrimes, and drug crimes are among the criminal offenses most frequently prosecuted as federal crimes. Internet sex crimes such as possession of child pornography and online enticement of a minor are also vigorously prosecuted in federal court.

Federal criminal charges are serious, with conviction leading to stringent sentencing in federal prison without the possibility of parole. If you are investigated for a federal crime, it is crucial to seek legal counsel from an attorney and defense team experienced at handling federal cases. Potential evidence against you is gathered during lengthy investigations that may include wiretapping and other surveillance conducted by agents. Finding a federal criminal attorney with the resources to build a defense against charges is extremely important.

If you believe you are being investigated for a federal offense or if you have been charged with a federal crime, getting legal counsel from an experienced attorney should be a priority in protecting your rights and building your defense. More information regarding federal charges and legal representation can be found here.