Federal Criminal Defense in New York

Since 1977, We’ve Defended Constitutional Rights With Individualized Counsel

Federal criminal defense can begin well before an arrest or indictment. Contact from federal agents, a subpoena, a search warrant, or notice of grand jury activity may require decisions about interviews, records, electronic evidence, and constitutional rights. We assess your role, the stage of the investigation, and the available information before advising you on the next step.

At Goldberger & Dubin, P.C., we provide individualized counsel for people facing federal investigation or prosecution. Our clients receive straightforward explanations and direct communication throughout the case.

Call (646) 681-5997 for a free, confidential consultation before responding to federal authorities or to discuss charges already filed.

Where a Federal Criminal Case May Proceed in New York

Federal jurisdiction is distinct from New York state criminal court jurisdiction. New York is divided into four federal judicial districts, and venue may depend on where the alleged conduct occurred, where relevant evidence is located, and which federal venue rules apply.

The Southern District of New York includes New York County, the Bronx, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, and Sullivan Counties. The Eastern District of New York includes Kings, Nassau, Queens, Richmond, and Suffolk Counties. The appropriate district can shape where hearings, filings, and any trial take place, but that determination depends on the facts and charging theory.

Before Charges: Interviews, Subpoenas, Searches, & Grand Juries

A federal investigation may continue for months or longer before prosecutors decide whether to bring charges. Federal agents may describe someone as a witness, subject, or target. A witness may have relevant information, a subject may have conduct within the investigation’s scope, and a target is someone prosecutors believe may have committed an offense. None of these labels determines whether an indictment will follow.

A grand jury reviews evidence presented by prosecutors and decides whether probable cause supports an indictment. Testimony, documents, and electronic records provided during an investigation may affect later charging and litigation decisions, so it’s important to understand a request before responding.

We can advise you on decisions involving:

• Agent interviews: Evaluating whether to participate and preparing for potential questioning.
• Subpoenas: Reviewing the request, applicable deadlines, and possible legal objections.
• Search warrants: Examining the warrant, how the search was conducted, and what evidence the government collected.
• Grand jury activity: Assessing testimony or document demands and your status in the investigation.
• Prosecutor communications: Seeking information about the investigation when communication is appropriate.

What Happens After Federal Charges Are Filed

The sequence and timing of a federal case depend on the charging mechanism, district, judge, and facts. We explain each stage, evaluate the government’s evidence, and discuss the decisions that require your input.

A federal prosecution may include:

• Initial appearance and arraignment: The court addresses the charges, counsel, and release or detention. At arraignment, the defendant hears the formal charges and enters a plea.
• Federal discovery: We review evidence and disclosures provided under federal rules, including records, witness materials, and electronic evidence.
• Pretrial motions: The parties may litigate the admissibility of evidence, the legality of a search, or alleged violations of constitutional rights.
• Plea negotiations or trial: The available options depend on the evidence, charges, litigation rulings, and any proposal from prosecutors.
• Sentencing: After a conviction, the court may consider applicable statutes, offense conduct, criminal history, and the federal sentencing guidelines. The guidelines provide an advisory framework for calculating a recommended sentencing range.

Conduct That May Lead to Federal Charges

Federal prosecutions may involve wire or mail fraud, tax offenses, money laundering, securities-related conduct, drug trafficking, weapons offenses, conspiracy, racketeering, computer crimes, or obstruction. The legal issues and potential consequences vary based on the statute, alleged loss or quantity, criminal history, and the person’s alleged role.

The same conduct may also create civil, administrative, or regulatory exposure. Identifying the agencies involved and the scope of the investigation can clarify which decisions need immediate attention.

Three Former Assistant District Attorneys, One Personalized Defense Team

Our firm includes three former Assistant District Attorneys who gained firsthand knowledge of how prosecutors develop criminal cases. Those roles were in district attorneys’ offices, and we don’t treat state and federal procedures as interchangeable. We apply that prosecutorial perspective while addressing the rules and issues presented by each federal matter.

Our attorneys are skilled trial lawyers whose broader criminal defense work includes jury trials and appeals. As a boutique firm, we collaborate as a team while giving each client close attention. We explain developments in practical terms, respond directly, and develop creative, results-oriented strategies around the individual facts.

Get Clarity Before Your Next Decision

If federal agents have contacted you, a subpoena has arrived, or charges are pending, speak with us about the current stage of the case and the decisions ahead. We combine a trial lawyer’s perspective with straightforward counsel and personal attention, giving you the information needed to make informed choices about your defense.

Call (646) 681-5997 to request a free, confidential consultation with Goldberger & Dubin, P.C..