Federal Crimes Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Theft
Not Guilty DUI
Charges Dropped Arson
Not Guilty College student rape case
Not Guilty Rape case
Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
Not Guilty Drug Trafficking
Not Guilty Drug Trafficking
Not Guilty Child Pornography
Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Assault
Charges Dropped Embezzlement
Not Guilty Murder Case
Acquittal Impeachment Trial
Charges Dropped Embezzlement
Not Guilty Double Homicide
Not Guilty Aggravated Assault

Philadelphia Federal Crime Lawyer

Federal Crime Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA Delivering Legal Advocacy for Federal Offense Charges Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

Federal criminal charges come with some of the most severe penalties that a person can face. Federal offenses are often investigated by major government agencies, including the FBI, DEA, ATF, or Homeland Security, meaning you will need serious legal representation to build a proper defense against your charges. Convictions for federal crimes can upend your life overnight while having lifelong consequences on your record, career, and freedom. If law enforcement is currently investigating you or you have already been charged with a federal crime, arm yourself with a Philadelphia federal criminal defense lawyer who has the knowledge and skill necessary to fight back.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, you can find a team of more than a dozen criminal defense attorneys who have a long-standing history of securing favorable results for clients. We offer a unique insight into criminal defense cases, which has allowed us to develop a strong reputation among judges and prosecutors. Our lawyers are known for defending clients in high-profile cases, with a long record of success standing up to some of the toughest prosecutors around.

Federal cases escalate fast, and we will act even faster to defend you. By reaching out to a federal defense attorney in Philadelphia, PA, you can develop a fighting chance against your charges to protect your best interests.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to learn more.

The team is definitely a dream team straight outta Philadelphia Center City!
“I first want to thank this dream team they definitely was a pleasure to work with and I am glad I chose Van der Veen law firm to get the jobs”

- RB
They make my concerns their concerns.
“Thank you for always picking up the phone. I could not have a better firm representing myself, family and my friends. If you want an attorney that gets the job done, Look no more!!! Contact Attorney van der Veen.”

- Leslie L.
Guided me through the process for a success.
“Very satisfied with the way they handled my case, answer all my question, provided me with needed information.”

- Frank A.
Michael is superb! Great attorney, great team, great job.
“Outcome was better than expected. Forever thankful to Mike’s reliable firm. If you want great results they are your guys. Strongly recommend.”

- Ninel B.
Having been represented on different subjects Mike has provided the same outstanding results!
“This law firm has been nothing but the best for my company! Mr. van der Veen has always worked very hard and communicated well with each situation that he has represented me in. I would highly recommend this firm!”

- Sewall M. Jr.
They handled every aspect of my case with integrity and pride.
“Wonderful customer service. The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin is the real deal. I would definitely recommend them.”

- Former Client
You should not go anywhere else.
“This firm is the absolute best! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and amazing!! I recommend this Law firm to anyone with an issue. can't speak highly enough for this firm and it's attorneys! It was truly a wonderful experience.”

- Bennie H.
They take full control of your case allowing you to have peace of mind while they win.
“I have been a client of this firm for many years now, and all that I can say is these are the Top Lawyers in the City! My experience over the years have been excellent! Thank you van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin. Job very well done.”

- Quiana

When Does a Crime Become a Federal Offense?

It takes certain factors for a state crime to become a federal crime. For example, if a crime crosses state or national borders, involves federal property, or was investigated by a federal agency, it qualifies as a federal crime. Instead of these cases going before a state-level court, U.S. Attorneys will pursue them in a federal court.

These cases typically take months or years of investigation and quickly become complicated. Our Philadelphia federal crime lawyers are prepared to manage all of the complex evidence, consult expert witnesses, handle complex filings, and meet every legal obligation of your federal case.

The Types of Federal Charges a Philadelphia Federal Crime Lawyer Can Defend You Against

We have spent years defending people throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding areas against charges of federal crimes. Over those years, our attorneys have built creative and results-driven defenses against all types of federal crimes, including:

Drug Trafficking and Distribution: Federal prosecutors often bring these charges against someone who has trafficked drugs across state or national borders or has been caught in possession of a large quantity of a controlled substance.
Wire or Mail Fraud: Using electronic devices or the postal service to commit fraud is a federal crime. Federal prosecutors often take these charges seriously, especially when they involve financial banking institutions, government programs, or illegal activities in multiple states.
Conspiracy Charges: By simply agreeing to commit a crime with others, you may find yourself facing conspiracy charges. These charges are usually brought against multiple parties simultaneously, which can make them especially complicated.
Financial Fraud and Other Crimes: Fraudulently gaining assets through loans, mortgages, or other bank funds can quickly result in federal prosecutors investigating your financial records and transactions, and subsequently charging you.
Weapons Offenses: Illegally possessing, trafficking, or using a firearm during a crime can all result in prosecutors charging you with a federal crime.
Tax Evasion: The IRS has a lot of manpower to use if the agency suspects you of committing criminal tax fraud, failing to report all of your income, or engaging in other violations.
Healthcare Fraud: Participating in kickback schemes, billing fraud, and misuse of government programs are all federal crimes. We are prepared to sort through the extensive documentation and digital records available to create a strong defense on your behalf.
Immigration Crimes: Fraudulently drafting immigration documents, reentering the country after being deported, or smuggling illegal immigrants into the country are all federal crimes that law enforcement will fiercely prosecute.

The Stages of Federal Criminal Cases

Knowing what to expect in the federal crime process can help you better prepare for your future. Typically, these situations follow these steps:

Investigation

Government agencies will conduct an investigation to gather as much information as possible to build a case against you. Their investigation often includes surveillance, wiretaps, and financial audits. You may receive a subpoena during this stage that notifies you that you are being investigated.

Filing Charges and Conducting an Arrest

Once the US attorney has enough evidence against you, they will file formal charges, and a federal judge may even issue a warrant for your arrest. From there, you will be brought in before a judge for an initial appearance.

Detention Hearing

The court will then decide whether to detain you or release you before your trial. As your legal representation, we will argue on your behalf for your release before trial.

Discovery and Pretrial Motions

Next, both the defense and prosecution teams will exchange any evidence they have. At this stage, we will file any available motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, dismiss invalid charges, or weaken the prosecution's case in any way.

Plea Negotiation or Trial

Based on the case that both sides make, there may be a negotiation for a plea deal. If seeking a plea deal is the best option in your case, we will advocate on your behalf to secure the best deal possible. If there are no negotiations or a deal cannot be reached, the case will go to trial, where a judge or jury will find you guilty or innocent.

No matter what stage of a federal crime case you are in, it is never too late to defend yourself with a skilled Philadelphia federal crime lawyer. We will prepare a thorough defense on your behalf, regularly communicate with you, and fight for you at every stage of your case.

Why You Need a Federal Crime Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA

In addition to the heightened level of difficulty it takes to properly defend against federal criminal charges, the penalties for these crimes are often much worse than their state-level counterparts. Many federal crimes come with mandatory minimum sentences that leave little room for negotiation to reduce the consequences or even object to the sentencing. Federal prosecutors will often file multiple charges against someone to increase the stakes of these situations, and they rarely drop charges without a strong case to do so.

When every aspect of a federal case is more severe, you need to be sure that your Philadelphia federal crime lawyer has the necessary experience with the legal system to win your case or achieve a favorable outcome. All of our lawyers at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin have a long history of developing effective and battle-tested strategies for our clients.

Why Choose Our Law Firm for Your Philadelphia Federal Crime Lawyer?

We understand that federal charges will do more than just impact your criminal record. A conviction for these crimes can have a permanent effect on your finances, your family, and your professional future. To help you through your case, we will take a holistic approach in your defense to craft a legal strategy that can protect every part of your life.

Our long history of work in these types of high-profile cases has been nationally recognized by many media outlets. Our attorneys have been able to secure favorable results in these cases by taking a results-driven, comprehensive mindset that is focused on dismissals, reductions, and trial victories. As we represent you, we will take care of every aspect of building your defense, from gathering the facts to preparing for trial, all while keeping you informed about your case and how we are fighting for you.

Start Crafting Your Federal Crimes Defense Today

If you are being investigated for a federal crime or you have already been charged with one, do not wait to contact a Philadelphia federal crime lawyer. Call us at (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to schedule your confidential, no-obligation, free initial consultation today. The sooner you reach out to a federal crime defense attorney in Philadelphia, PA, the sooner you can turn our courtroom strength into your defense advantage.

The Person Who Sees The Whole Picture Meet Michael T. van der Veen

From local business owners, to the President of the United States, we fight for everyone's best interest. As founder of the firm, Michael T. van der Veen effortlessly combines accessibility, experience, negotiation, collaboration, and compassion to achieve results. He is the rare trial attorney who excels in both civil litigation and criminal defense. Known for his unwavering commitment to serving as the voice of the victim and advocate for the accused, he has established his reputation by winning multimillion-dollar jury verdicts in State and Federal Courts, as well as winning major criminal trials across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Crime Defense in Philadelphia, PA

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-610-3440 today!

Not everyone facing federal charges has to remain in jail. A federal judge will decide whether to release you or detain you until trial. As your lawyers, we will try to convince the judge that releasing you is the right decision.
A grand jury is a group of citizens who will review the evidence against you and decide whether or not the prosecution should file charges against you. If you have been subpoenaed to testify before a grand jury, reach out to us immediately so we can prepare for your defense.
It is entirely possible to negotiate a plea deal in a federal case, although it can be more challenging. In most situations, the prosecution has a strong case against you, and they may be unwilling to negotiate when they believe you will be found guilty at trial.
The federal sentencing guidelines are a framework judges use to determine a sentence based on factors like offense level and criminal history. While these guidelines are advisory, many judges rely on them heavily.
The dual sovereignty doctrine allows both state and federal courts to prosecute you for the same conduct if it violates laws at both levels. This kind of overlapping vulnerability makes it even more essential to have a legal team that is familiar with both court systems.

in their own words

Clients share their experiences and results firsthand

"He gives you the impression there’s a person you can count on, a person that you can rely on in terms of having some representation. He kept me informed, he kept me up to date with everything that was going on throughout the process. What doctor, what appointments, who I have to see…I was always very well informed." -Sam
"this law firm has afforded low income people of Philadelphia a relationship with an attorney that they can come and meet. To have a the intuition to give a damn about the little people, and then give them that same kind of respect and consideration is unmatched." -Melvin
"He represented me in multiple criminal cases, and I had a lengthy criminal record. He never judged me, and treated me like anybody else, he never looked at me different. He's a real good guy, professional, very honest. When I say I never went to another attorney...he's the best." -Tiffany
"I love that I have Mike on my side, whenever I question what am I supposed to do? I used to call my dad and after my dad passed, even for things that aren’t always law related, I know I could still call Mike, and I love that about him. He’s just amazing, and I know that if I send somebody here that they’re going to be represented a hundred percent." -Jamie

the complete coverage advantage

Full-Spectrum
Law

From criminal defense to personal injury and beyond, clients gain seamless, strategic support from a full-service law firm built to handle every legal challenge under one roof.
Values-Driven
Practice

From pro bono advocacy to charitable and community involvement, our attorneys are deeply invested in the people and causes they serve, because real justice includes giving back.
Human-Centered
Advocacy

We stand as the voice of the injured and a strong advocate for the accused. We don’t just see a case, we see the people and futures at stake, and we fight accordingly.
High-Caliber
Results

Our attorneys are nationally recognized, featured in major media, and trusted with the complex, high-stakes cases, because when the outcome matters most, experience matters more.

Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Trial Lawyers Excelling in the Areas of Law Most Critical to You and Your Family

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