Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Tucson

Serious Federal Charges Require Focused Defense—Call the Law Office of Carlos A. Medina at (520) 251-9561

When you discover that federal agents are investigating you, or you learn that an indictment has been filed, everything can change in a moment. Federal cases move on strict timelines, and the stakes often include years in prison, heavy fines, and lasting consequences. You do not have to face this situation alone.

At Law Office of Carlos A. Medina, PLLC, we represent people accused of federal crimes throughout Southern Arizona. We understand how frightening it is to deal with unfamiliar agencies and the United States District Court in Tucson. From the first meeting, you work directly with our founding attorney, Carlos A. Medina, who listens carefully and starts planning a path forward.

We offer a free in-person consultation so you can talk through what is happening, bring any documents you have, and get clear next steps. Our firm communicates in both English and Spanish, which helps clients and families fully understand what is at stake. Our goal is to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future at every stage of the federal process.

Call the Law Office of Carlos A. Medina, PLLC at (520) 251-9561 or reach out online to speak with a Tucson federal crimes lawyer who will protect your rights. Take advantage of our bilingual support and available payment plans to start your defense now.

Understanding Federal Crimes Laws in Arizona

A federal crime is an offense that violates the United States Code (U.S.C.) or occurs on federal property, such as national parks, military bases, or tribal lands. In Southern Arizona, the jurisdictional lines often blur, but the implications do not. While state crimes are typically handled by the Pima County Attorney's Office and heard in the Superior Court, federal cases are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office and heard at the Evo A. DeConcini U.S. Courthouse in Tucson.

The nature of federal jurisdiction in Arizona is heavily influenced by our geography. Because we are a border state, a significant portion of the federal docket involves offenses that the government views as threats to national security or interstate commerce. It is common for conduct to be illegal under both state and federal law; however, federal prosecutors often "cherry-pick" cases involving large quantities of controlled substances, sophisticated financial fraud, or repeat immigration violations. 

We often see federal charges categorized as:

• Federal Drug Offenses – Trafficking, distribution, conspiracy, and possession with intent to distribute. These cases often involve search warrants, wiretaps, confidential informants, and disputes over drug quantity or alleged role in the offense. We carefully examine how evidence was obtained to protect your constitutional rights.
• White Collar and Fraud Crimes – Bank fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, and other financial offenses. These matters frequently involve extensive financial records and electronic communications. We analyze the government’s theory, challenge allegations of intent, and scrutinize loss calculations and other key elements.
• Firearms and Weapons Charges – Unlawful possession, firearms connected to drug activity, and other federal weapons allegations that carry significant mandatory penalties.
• Immigration-Related Offenses – Illegal reentry, immigration document allegations, and related charges. We consider not only the criminal case but also the potential immigration consequences and long-term effects on your status.
• Child Exploitation and Related Offenses – Allegations involving child pornography or exploitation are aggressively prosecuted and carry severe penalties. We provide discreet, respectful representation while focusing on the evidence, applicable law, and safeguarding your rights at every stage.

Distinguishing these from state crimes is vital. For example, while a state drug possession charge might lead to a diversion program or probation, a federal charge for the same substance often carries a mandatory minimum of five or ten years in prison. This is why a Tucson federal crimes lawyer is essential to navigate these distinct legal waters.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Federal Convictions

The federal sentencing system is notoriously rigid. Unlike state courts, where judges have broad discretion, federal judges must calculate a "guideline range" based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines consider the nature of the offense and the defendant's prior criminal history.

Direct Penalties

The most daunting aspect of federal court is the mandatory minimum sentence. Many drug and firearm offenses carry 5, 10, or 20-year minimums that a judge cannot bypass except under very specific "safety valve" provisions. Fines in federal court can reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars, especially in racketeering (RICO) or large-scale fraud cases. Additionally, almost every federal prison sentence is followed by a term of supervised release, which is the federal equivalent of probation but often involves stricter monitoring.

Collateral Consequences

A federal conviction stays with you long after a prison sentence ends. The collateral damage is often what destroys a person's ability to rebuild.

• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, including Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders), a federal conviction for an "aggravated felony" almost certainly leads to mandatory deportation and a permanent bar from re-entering the U.S.
• Professional Licensing: Convictions for fraud or drug crimes usually result in the immediate revocation of professional licenses for doctors, nurses, lawyers, and real estate agents.
• Loss of Civil Rights: You will lose the right to vote and the right to possess any firearm or ammunition for life.
• Housing and Employment: Federal "felon" status makes it incredibly difficult to pass background checks for housing or high-level employment, particularly in sectors involving finance or government contracts.

How Our Firm Defends Federal Cases in Arizona

When you come to our office to discuss a federal matter, our first priority is to understand your situation in detail. During your free in-person consultation, we ask about how you learned of the investigation, what contact you have had with agents, and any paperwork or charging documents you received. This conversation is confidential and is your opportunity to speak openly with our attorney.

At Law Office of Carlos A. Medina, PLLC, you work directly with attorney Carlos A. Medina on your federal case. We do not pass you from person to person. Once we are engaged, we review discovery materials from the United States Attorney’s Office and law enforcement agencies when they are provided. 

We look for weaknesses in how evidence was gathered, potential violations of your rights, and factual gaps that may help your defense. We also prepare you for court hearings, explain what is likely to happen at each appearance, and help you decide how to respond to any plea offers.

We know that cost is a major concern for families facing federal charges. Our office offers reasonable fees for criminal defense work and we discuss payment expectations frankly, so there are fewer surprises. Our goal is to keep strong legal representation accessible while still providing the time and attention that complex federal cases require.