Mistakes to Avoid When Facing Philadelphia Federal Criminal Charges

Mistakes to Avoid When Facing Philadelphia Federal Criminal Charges

Facing federal criminal charges is scary. Your freedom, reputation, and livelihood are on the line. It’s crucial to avoid common mistakes defendants make. I’ve seen many cases go south because of these errors.

Not Getting a Lawyer

The biggest mistake is not hiring an experienced federal criminal defense attorney, like I did. Federal cases are complex. Prosecutors have unlimited resources. You need someone who knows federal law and procedure.

A lawyer can help with bail, negotiate pleas, file motions, develop defense strategies, and advise you. They know common investigative tactics and help avoid self-incrimination. My state-appointed attorney was useless. I’d still be in prison without my hired lawyer.

Talking to Investigators

When federal agents contact you, politely decline to answer questions. Say you’ll have your lawyer contact them. Agents build cases through interviews. Information you provide, however minor or innocent, can be used against you.

I let ATF agents search my house without a warrant, thinking I had nothing to hide. They found an old hunting rifle and charged me with being a felon in possession of a firearm. My lawyer later got the charge dismissed, but don’t make my mistake.

Lying or Withholding Information

Being evasive or untruthful hurts your credibility. Prosecutors assume you’re hiding something. It’s better to invoke your 5th Amendment right to remain silent. If you do talk, be 100% truthful. Admit mistakes upfront rather than letting agents discover them.

I lied about my alibi until agents confronted me with surveillance footage. The judge threw out our plea deal because of my deception. Tell the full truth from the beginning.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Waiting Too Long to Get a Lawyer

Retaining counsel early allows you to get ahead of the investigation. Your lawyer can interface with investigators, monitor the case, file timely motions, and craft defensive strategies. The longer you wait, the harder it gets to beat federal charges.

I let my case sit for months, figuring it wasn’t a big deal. In that time, prosecutors built an airtight case I couldn’t overcome. Don’t make my mistake – hire an attorney immediately.

Not Understanding Federal Sentencing

Federal judges follow strict sentencing guidelines based on your criminal history and offense level. Mandatory minimums often apply too. Without a plea deal, you’ll likely serve 85% of your sentence or more.

My lawyer estimated I’d get 5 years. I got 8 and must serve over 90% behind bars. Insist your lawyer clearly explains sentencing exposure so you know exactly what you face.

Rejecting a Plea Deal

Federal prosecutors pursue cases they’re nearly certain to win. Going to trial is extremely risky. I rejected a 5-year plea deal thinking I could beat the charges. After trial, I got the maximum 20 years.

A plea bargain gives you certainty and control over sentencing. My lawyer thinks we’ll win on appeal, but that will take years. I’d urge anyone offered a reasonable plea deal to take it.

Violating Bail or Pretrial Conditions

Bail and pretrial release often come with strict conditions like curfews, travel restrictions, drug testing, ankle monitors and more. Violating any condition gives prosecutors ammunition at sentencing and may cause bail revocation.

I tested positive for marijuana while out on bail. At sentencing, prosecutors used it against me to argue for prison time rather than probation. Follow all conditions to the letter – your freedom depends on it.

Social Media Use

Anything you post online can be used against you. Don’t discuss your case on social media or vent about the courts, investigators, etc. I posted an angry rant about my “corrupt” prosecutors that they downloaded and gave to the judge – very stupid.

Also beware of contacts. Undercover agents frequently try connecting with defendants online to obtain information. Say nothing about your case online or to anyone except your lawyer.

Not Preparing for Sentencing

How you present yourself at sentencing is crucial. You need to submit a thorough sentencing memorandum detailing mitigating factors like mental health history, addiction, family circumstances, charitable deeds, etc.

I wrongly assumed my clean record was enough. My lawyer scrambled to submit a memo at the last minute, but it wasn’t nearly as compelling as it could’ve been. Spend time preparing a thoughtful memo.

Underestimating Restitution

For financial and fraud crimes, judges order restitution payments to victims for losses. The amounts can be massive. Restitution continues accruing interest until paid in full, which for most defendants takes decades.

My lawyer said restitution would be under $100k. The prosecutors sought over $2 million in victim losses which the judge ordered me to pay. Understand full restitution exposure before pleading guilty.

Not Having Support

The criminal justice process is brutal. You need people in your corner for emotional support. Lean on family, friends, clergy, support groups, etc. It’s very hard going through it alone. I became suicidal without a good support system.

Also build support for sentencing. Have family, friends, employers, etc. write letters attesting to your character. This helps humanize you to the judge. My lawyer submitted only one letter from my mom – that hurt my chances.