Minneapolis Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers
Get Our Nationally-Recognized Attorneys On Your Side
Being investigated or charged with a federal crime is one of the most serious legal situations a person can face. Unlike state-level charges, federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office, investigated by agencies with vast resources such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, and ATF, and heard before judges who apply strict, structured sentencing guidelines. If you're under investigation or have already been charged, having an experienced Minneapolis federal criminal defense lawyer in your corner from the earliest possible stage can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
At Tamburino Law Group, our attorneys bring more than 100 years of combined legal experience to federal defense work throughout Minneapolis and the District of Minnesota. Several of our attorneys previously worked as prosecutors, giving our team direct insight into how the government builds and evaluates federal cases — insight we use to build the strongest possible defense for our clients.
Here are several more reasons why you should hire our firm:
- Board-Certified Criminal Law Authority: Attorney Joe Tamburino is recognized by the Minnesota State Bar Association as a Certified Specialist in Criminal Law, demonstrating proven proficiency in complex trial litigation.
- Admitted to Practice in Federal Courts: Our attorneys are admitted to represent clients in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and in federal districts across the region.
- Hundreds of Tried Cases: We prepare every federal defense for trial, placing us in the strongest possible position to challenge government evidence or negotiate favorable pre-indictment resolutions.
- 24/7 Emergency Client Support: Federal agents often execute search warrants or conduct early-morning arrests without warning. Our trial lawyers respond immediately, day or night.
If you have been charged with a federal crime, you have no time to waste! Contact the criminal defense attorneys at Tamburino Law Group for a free consultation.
What is a Federal Crime?
A federal crime is an illegal act that violates federal statutes passed by the United States Congress (Title 18 and Title 21 of the U.S. Code) or takes place across state lines, involves federal agencies, or occurs on federal property.
Unlike state crimes, which are investigated by local police or county sheriffs and prosecuted in Minnesota District Courts, federal crimes are investigated by powerful federal law enforcement agencies, including:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI)
- United States Secret Service
- Department of Homeland Security (HSI)
- United States Postal Inspection Service
Federal cases are prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in federal district courthouses, such as the U.S. District Courthouses located in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Fergus Falls.
At Tamburino Law Group, we have successfully represented clients charged with various federal crimes, including:
- Drug charges
- Internet crimes
- White collar crimes
- Child pornography
- Terroristic threats
- Kidnapping
- Weapons violations
- Tax crimes
- RICO charges
- Conspiracy
- Customs violations
- Human trafficking
Federal Criminal Penalties
Penalties in the federal criminal justice system are notoriously severe compared to Minnesota state court guidelines. Federal offenses carry strict statutory mandatory minimums and are governed by the United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG).
| Penalty Category | Statutory Application | Strategic Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Mandatory Minimums | Applies to drug conspiracy, firearm offenses, and child exploitation statutory counts. | Requires mandatory 5, 10, or 20+ year prison terms that federal judges cannot reduce without specific government motions (e.g., Substantial Assistance / § 5K1.1) or Safety Valve relief. |
| U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) | Advisory grid calculation based on Base Offense Level + Enhancements and Criminal History Category. | Defense counsel must challenge sentencing enhancements (e.g., loss calculations, leadership role, weapon presence) to reduce the advisory imprisonment range. |
| Federal Supervised Release | Follows completion of a federal prison term (typically 3 to 5+ years). | Replaces state parole; monitored by U.S. Probation Officers with strict conditions and swift re-incarceration for violations. |
| Restitution & Asset Forfeiture | Mandatory under the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act (MVRA) and 18 U.S.C. § 981. | Government seizure of real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and personal assets linked to alleged offense proceeds. |
Federal Target Letters & Grand Jury Investigations
Federal prosecutions rarely begin with an immediate arrest. In many instances, individuals discover they are under investigation through an unexpected visit from federal agents, a search warrant execution, or a formal Federal Target Letter issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
What to Do If Contacted by Federal Agents:
- Invoke Your Right to Silence Immediately: Do not answer questions or attempt to "explain your side." Making false or misleading statements to a federal agent is a separate federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 1001, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
- Do Not Consent to Searches: Require federal agents to produce a signed federal search warrant specifying the exact premises and items to be searched.
- Preserve All Records: Never destroy, alter, or hide electronic files, text messages, or physical documents during an investigation. Doing so can trigger severe obstruction of justice charges under Sarbanes-Oxley (18 U.S.C. § 1519).
- Retain Experienced Federal Counsel Early: Early pre-indictment intervention allows Tamburino Law Group to contact Assistant U.S. Attorneys directly, evaluate grand jury subpoenas, protect your rights, and work to resolve matters before formal charges are returned.
The Federal Criminal Process
Understanding how a federal case unfolds can help you prepare for what lies ahead. The federal criminal process generally includes:
- Investigation: Federal agencies conduct extensive investigations before charges are filed. You may not even know you are under investigation until it is well underway.
- Indictment: If prosecutors believe there is enough evidence, they will present the case to a grand jury, which may issue an indictment.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: After charges are filed, you will appear before a federal judge who will address bail and inform you of the charges.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: Both sides exchange evidence, and your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiations: Some cases go to trial, while others are resolved through plea agreements.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is determined based on federal guidelines, which can be strict and complex.
What to Expect During a Federal Investigation
Many federal cases begin long before charges are officially filed. Knowing what to expect during an investigation can help you respond appropriately and protect yourself.
Common aspects of a federal investigation include:
- Surveillance: Federal agents may monitor communications, financial transactions, or physical movements.
- Search Warrants: Authorities may obtain warrants to search homes, offices, or electronic devices.
- Subpoenas: You may receive requests for documents or be required to testify before a grand jury.
- Interviews: Agents may attempt to question you or individuals connected to your case.
- Cooperating Witnesses: Investigators often rely on informants or co-defendants to gather evidence.
- Long Timelines: Investigations can last months or even years before charges are filed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I'm under federal investigation?
Warning signs can include a subpoena for records, contact from federal agents, or a target letter from the U.S. Attorney's Office. In many cases, though, individuals don't realize they're under investigation until charges are filed — which is why it's important to speak with an attorney the moment you suspect involvement.
Should I talk to federal agents if they contact me?
No, not without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel, and anything said to investigators can potentially be used against you, even if you believe you're simply a witness.
Can a federal case be resolved without going to trial?
Yes. Many federal cases are resolved through negotiated plea agreements, which may result in reduced charges or a recommended sentence. Whether this is the right approach depends on the strength of the evidence and the specific circumstances of your case.
What's the difference between a state and a federal criminal charge?
Federal charges are prosecuted under federal law, often carry mandatory minimum sentences, and are investigated by federal agencies with significant resources. Federal sentencing guidelines also tend to be less flexible than Minnesota's state sentencing structure.
Do I need an attorney with specific federal court experience?
Yes. Federal court operates under its own procedural rules, evidentiary standards, and sentencing framework. An attorney without direct federal court experience may not be familiar with the nuances that can affect the outcome of your case.
What is a federal target letter?
A target letter is a formal notice from the U.S. Attorney’s Office informing you that a federal grand jury has gathered substantial evidence linking you to a federal crime. Receiving a target letter means an indictment is imminent unless immediate legal action is taken.
Can a state crime become a federal crime?
Yes. If an alleged crime crosses state lines, involves federal financial institutions, utilizes federal communication channels (internet, phone lines, mail), occurs on federal property, or violates federal statutes concurrently, federal prosecutors can adopt the case.
Does federal court have parole?
No. Federal parole was abolished by the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984. Defendants sentenced to federal prison must serve a substantial portion of their term (typically at least 85%, assuming good conduct time credits) followed by a period of court-supervised release.
Contact a Minneapolis Federal Defense Attorney Today
When facing federal investigation or prosecution in Minnesota, delay only benefits the government. Tamburino Law Group is prepared to deploy our trial experience, board-certified leadership, and strategic resources to protect your liberty.
Contact Tamburino Law Group today. Call (612) 444-5020.
Have Questions?
-
1. Don’t Talk to the Police!
It’s crucial to know that while you should remain respectful with authorities, you have the right to remain silent. This a right protected by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which makes it clear individuals are protected from being compelled to be a witness against him / herself in criminal matters.
It’s important to note that:
- Talking will not help you avoid an arrest. If law enforcement has probable cause to arrest you, then they will arrest you.
- By speaking, you risk making a confession or providing information that can be used to indict you, even unknowingly.
- Even if you feel that information being discussed is “harmless,” it is still in your best interest to invoke your Fifth Amendment right.
-
2. Ask for a Lawyer!As soon as you can you should elect your right to have a defense attorney present. A Minnesota criminal defense lawyer or public defender can ensure the police do not violate your rights and help you avoid saying anything incriminating during questioning. Tamburino Law Group is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so that we can be by your side whenever you need us. Call now!
MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR OUR CLIENTS
-
“The work Joe and his team did really helped me change my life”
“You guys probably don't hear this enough. The work Joe and his team did really helped me change my life.”- D.M. -
“I don’t know where I’d be without his help”
“I would like to outwardly thank Tyler Dahlen for helping me get through my situation”- P.V. -
“I'm deeply thankful for the team at Tamburino Law Group”
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Hannah for her expert guidance and representation throughout the case.”- D.Y. -
“Thank you and your law firm, Mr. Tamburino.”
“If ever I have anyone who needs a lawyer I will most definitely recommend you and your firm.”- C.V. -
“Outstanding and professional”
“Thank you for everything you have done to help me with this court case.”- J.B. -
“Great care and compassion.”
I don't know any lawyers who would do what Tamburino Law Group did for their client. Their care and concern show a great deal about their heart and compassion for others. Thank you for being so supportive.- R.H. -
“This settlement changed my life.”
I came to Tamburino Law Group in 2018 after a severe accident left me unable to work and in constant pain. The firm helped me secure a $700,000 award, far exceeding my expectations. Their tireless efforts have completely changed my life, covering medical bills and future wage loss.- K.M. -
“I cannot thank you enough for your help!”
“Your patience, knowledge and especially your attention to detail was admirable.”
-
Case Dismissed Possession of Drugs in Vehicle
Attorney Hannah Martin represented a client who was charged with drug possession after officers searched her friend’s vehicle when she was a passenger.
-
Case Dismissal Assault ChargesAttorney Joe Tamburino represented a client in Anoka County on multiple assault charges involving multiple alleged victims. Joe litigated the matter for almost a year, and on the day of trial he got the case dismissed. His client was very happy.
-
Case Resolved Dog Bite
Jason hired Tamburino Law Group and after some months of investigation and litigation, they were able to get him a settlement of more than 10x what he originally would have settled for. He was extremely happy.
-
Reduction of Charges Felony Theft
-
Case Dismissed Assault Charge
Attorney Joe Tamburino was retained on an assault charge in Dakota County on a Thursday, and the case was set for trial the following Monday.
Real People.
Real Results.
- Possession of Drugs in Vehicle
- Assault Charges
- Dog Bite
- Felony Theft
- Assault Charge