Free Consultation:
610-436-1410
Free Consultation:
610-436-1410West Chester
Are you being investigated by federal authorities, or was a federal grand jury convened to indict you? There are several differences between state and federal court. The locations, procedures, and possible penalties all vary. Even the Bar admission for federal district and circuit courts are different than for state courts. This makes it crucial to contact an experienced federal attorney as soon as you are aware you may face federal charges.
Federal allegations must be taken seriously, and you should protect yourself and your rights immediately. As an experienced and highly-skilled West Chester defense attorney, Michael J. Skinner is licensed to practice in both Pennsylvania and federal courts, enabling him to defend you when you face allegations of violating federal law. Attorney Michael J. Skinner is a former Chester County District Attorney and understands how prosecutors strategize to win in court. With this inside knowledge, he will review the case for weaknesses and develop the most effective strategy to have federal charges reduced, dismissed, or defeated at trial.
By working with Skinner Law Firm, you have a knowledgeable and aggressive federal defense lawyer to fight the charges and spare you from harsh consequences. To discuss your situation, contact us online or call (610) 436-1410 for a free and confidential consultation.
When you are arrested in Pennsylvania, typically, you are facing state-level charges for allegedly violating a state law. A state prosecutor will handle your case and pursue a conviction. Your case will move through your local court system, and if a judge or jury convicts you, your sentence is based on Pennsylvania penal law.
However, a lot of illegal activity also violates federal law. In certain circumstances, you may be investigated and arrested by federal authorities, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) or the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In other cases, a state prosecutor will hand your case over to a federal prosecutor when they agree you should be charged under federal law. Your case will go through the federal court system, and if a judge or jury convicts you, federal law dictates your punishment.
There are several circumstances under which you can be charged with a federal crime, including:
Skinner Law Firm is prepared to defend you against a wide range of federal offenses, including:
Allegations of participating in organized crime typically lead to charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). You also can be charged under the Hobbs Act, the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering Activity, or the Continuing Criminal Enterprise Law for allegedly being part of organized crime.
Obtaining money, property, or services by providing false information or some form of misrepresentation or deceit is unlawful. Fraud can be charged under Pennsylvania law, but if your offense crossed state lines or impacted a federal agency, prosecutors are likely to pursue federal charges. You could face charges for mail or wire fraud, credit card or check fraud, bankruptcy, bank, or accounting fraud, health care or insurance fraud, tax fraud, or immigration fraud.
A serious fraud-related offense is embezzlement. If you are accused of unlawfully appropriating federal funds or property based on a position of trust, prosecutors will pursue federal embezzlement charges against you.
Theft offenses involving federal funds or property are typically charged under federal law. Also, largescale theft schemes crossing state lines will result in federal charges.
Drug crimes tend to lead to federal charges when large quantities, manufacturing, or importation are involved. If you are accused of a major drug offense and facing federal charges, call a federal criminal attorney immediately.
Child pornography is often distributed online, which easily crosses state borders. It also is often investigated by federal authorities. For these reasons and others, you may face federal charges for the creation, possession, or distribution of child pornography.
You may face federal charges if you are accused of committing fraud online, hacking, identity theft, using malware or ransomware, or cyberterrorism. Federal law encompasses a wide range of computer and internet offenses, which are harshly punished.
Federal law outlines many tax-related offenses. If you are accused of intentionally trying to avoid paying taxes or unlawfully reducing your tax liability, you can face tax evasion charges.
A professional non-profit dedicated to the improvement of the criminal defense bar, and to providing valuable information to the public about drunk driving laws. Members of the NCDD are considered the most experienced DUI defense attorneys in the United States and Canada.
The preeminent organization in the United States. NACDL serves as a leader in identifying and reforming flaws in the criminal justice system, and addressing systemic racism, and ensuring that the criminal defense bar is fully equipped to serve all accused persons at the highest level.
PACDL is the premier network of the best defense attorneys in PA with a mission to educate, advocate, and inspire by providing support for criminal defense lawyers, promoting effective competence, leveling the playing field, and protecting freedoms.
The Pennsylvania Bar Association promotes and protects the legal profession, the rights of Pennsylvania citizens and access to justice for all. Membership is open to any lawyer in good standing who is licensed by the Bar of Pennsylvania.
The American Bar Association is one of the world’s largest voluntary professional organizations, with over 400,000 members and more than 3,500 entities. Their mission is to serve its members, the legal profession, and the public by defending liberty and delivering justice as the national representative of the legal profession.
The CCBA promotes professionalism, inclusion, and collegiality within the Chester County legal profession, and enhances the quality of life of its members and the practice of law within the community.
The NORML Legal Committee (NLC) is composed of attorneys committed to the overall goals of NORML. NLC attorneys meet each year to discuss emerging legal issues related to defense of marijuana consumers and to support each other in the pursuit of justice.
The American Institute’s Criminal Law Division is an impartial third-party rating service recognizing the excellence of fellow practitioners. To help clients across the United States make educated decisions, we compile an exclusive list of the “10 Best” Attorneys for each State. Our “10 Best” is a prestigious honor extended only to those who have reached the top of their profession while doing so with the client’s satisfaction being of paramount importance.
The American Institute’s DUI/DWI Division recognizes the excellence of practitioners in the field of DUI/DWI defense. We compile an exclusive list of the “10 Best” Attorneys for each State for potential clients to utilize. We look for Attorneys that have achieved unparalleled success but most importantly have done so for the benefit of their client. Very few Attorneys can do so and our organization recognizes this significant achievement.
Attorney Michael Skinner has been consistently recognized as among the best lawyers in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Attorneys are nominated via peer balloting, then vetted through our editorial process in various fields of practice.
The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 is an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state. Membership is extended only to the most qualified attorneys who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile. Each of our distinguished members possesses the knowledge, skill, experience, and success held by only the best and finest lawyers in America.
The Super Lawyers list recognizes no more than 5 percent of attorneys in each state. The Rising Stars further distinguishes no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys, and to be eligible, a Rising Stars candidate must be either 40 years old or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.
Attorney Michael J. Skinner is admitted to the bar for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The Eastern District’s jurisdiction encompasses Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, and Philadelphia counties.
Cases decided in the Eastern District are appealed to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. Both the Eastern District and Third Circuit Courts are based in the James Byrne Courthouse in Philadelphia.
When you are dealing with a federal law enforcement agency, it is important to understand how cases progress. The federal court process works differently than Pennsylvania’s state court process.
A federal agency, such as the FBI, DEA, or DOJ may investigate allegations of a federal crime. You may learn of the allegations against you during the investigation. You may be contacted for an interview, or agents may show up at your home or work with a search warrant. Call a federal attorney right away.
When a federal prosecutor wants to pursue charges against you, they will convene a grand jury. This is a secret proceeding during which the prosecutor shows the jurors evidence against you. You do not get to be present or defend yourself. If at least 12 jurors believe there is probable cause you committed the crime, you will be indicted.
Following an indictment, you will be arrested. An agent may show up at home or work to arrest you, or your federal lawyer may negotiate for you to surrender yourself.
Your first court appearance is an arraignment before a magistrate. You will be informed of the charges against you and whether you will be released from jail and, if so, on what conditions. The magistrate will set the bail amount. You also must enter your initial plea.
The prosecution and your defense attorney will go through the discovery process. The prosecution is required to hand over all exculpatory evidence. Your federal defense lawyer also will take steps to gather any other evidence available through discovery and an independent investigation into the allegations.
Following discovery, you may choose to enter into plea bargain negotiations with the prosecutor.
If your case is not resolved through a plea, then your attorney will pursue an aggressive pretrial motion practice. These are opportunities to have the judge make decisions about your case before trial, such as decisions regarding evidence that is admissible or inadmissible. We also may file a motion to dismiss to request a pre-trial dismissal of the case.
If you do not accept a plea and the judge does not dismiss the case, then we will prepare for trial. We will identify the strongest possible defense and prepare for jury selection. At trial, we will present evidence in your favor and argue against the prosecutor’s claims. A jury will decide whether to convict or acquit.
“Mike Skinner is a phenomenal attorney and an even greater person. He arrived early to my hearing and ran through the game plan with me beforehand so I knew what to expect. Due to his great negotiation skills, we were…
10-14-2021
Juan H.
He was extremely helpful and knowledgeable.
06-14-2018
Kelly
“Attorneys can be intimidating but Mr. Skinner is approachable and made me feel at ease. His office staff is professional but friendly, too. He worked hard for our family and I appreciate that.”
10-16-2018
KM
“I could not have had better representation for my son. The plea Mr. Skinner was able to work out was even better than we anticipated. Mr. Skinner and his staff are the most professional and supportive individuals, I never waited…
08-13-2025
Mindy
I would highly recommend him to anyone facing charges or violations in Chester County.
08-16-2019
Dylan
I was nervous regarding my situation, but after a brief conversation describing my charges and the delicacy of my situation, Michael assured me he could easily handle this case.
11-23-2019
Dan
“Nothing but compliments for Mike and his team. Would definitely recommend to family and friends. Thank you for all your help. Best, John”
07-09-2025
Jay de
Mike Skinner resolved this case in the best way possible, and I am eternally grateful for his advice and counsel.
11-30-2019
Judy
“Michael Skinner and his wife Lindsey and his whole team helped me and my wife. They’re very honest. Trustworthy. They’re paralegal. Steve was also very good at keeping me updated and at the end of the day you want a…
02-05-2025
Michael M.
Mike’s attention to detail and professionalism put my mind at ease.
09-10-2019
Mike
“I have nothing but good things to say about Mike Skinner. We found Mike searching for an option other than a public defender. He made the time to meet with us quickly. He assessed the information and gave his honest…
10-20-2020
Brandon C.
“Mr Skinner is an amazing attorney. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my family.I would highly recommend using Skinner Law Firm. Mr Skinner and staff are amazing and very professional team. I would recommend them for…
10-05-2024
J
Michael Skinner and his staff made me completely comfortable and confident
07-11-2019
Jason
“The Skinner law firm has been amazing throughout my whole case. They have been very understanding and flexible with my situation and I couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you guys for everything.”
06-19-2025
Brittany S.
His diligence and professionalism are unmatched making it a pleasure to have been a client.
12-19-2018
Dalton
“Mr.Skinner was nothing short of amazing. My husband had a, driving under a suspended license (DUI related) charge. He would have had to spend time in jail and possibly lose his job that he has had over 5 years. We…
04-14-2016
Candiss B.
He is very informative and knowledgeable. I had no trouble contacting him to answer questions or give me advice.
11-29-2019
Miles
“Mike is a fantastic lawyer who is extremely knowledgeable of the law. If you are someone in need of legal advice, I would highly recommend reaching out to Mike and his team. Not only are they always well prepared and…
08-17-2023
Joe K.
He is very nice and will work with to help get you the best possible outcome.
07-08-2018
Katie
Michael Skinner EXPERTLY handled a very sensitive case.
12-10-2018
Matt
“My dad’s good friend referred us to Michael Skinner and I’m super happy with the outcome! Michael and his staff were super professional and always got back to any questions I had in a timely manner. This was my first…
01-23-2025
Rebekah
“Mike Skinner is a terrific guy and a fantastic lawyer. He is honest, intelligent, and all of his moves are carefully calculated. I would highly recommend Mike to anyone who has hit a legal “speed bump” throughout the course of…
10-21-2015
William P.
He was able to reduce my son’s sentence from a potentially harsh fine, loss of driving privileges or even jail time, down to a few community service hours.
10-11-2018
T.F.
“I had a great experience working with Mr. Skinner. From the start he was knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cared about the case. They took time to explain each step of the process clearly and always kept me informed. They made…
06-11-2025
Gbird
“I couldn’t recommend Skinner Law Firm more. Great outcome a genuinely good lawyer helped me through the whole process with a payment plan that I could handle.”
07-01-2025
Jason K.
“My experience with Mr. Skinner was very professional. He’s been in the business for awhile & knows his stuff. Lindsay, at front desk, was extremely warm & personable. Overall, very positive experience.”
06-06-2025
Diane
He is very professional and understanding of each person’s needs.
05-19-2019
Gary
“One of the best lawyers I’ve ever dealt with, he gave me a second chance to do the right thing in life. Best money ever spent , very genuine person too he always kept it real with me. He went…
04-17-2024
Dylan S.
“Having been faced with a daunting legal issue, my family and I were so relieved to have connected with Skinner Law Firm. Mike’s calm demeanor coupled with his extensive knowledge and expertise proved invaluable. It is clear he genuinely cares…
06-18-2020
Ann M.
“Working with Mike and his staff, Lindsay and Delaney, was so easy and reassuring. They made this entire process stress-free and made us feel at ease and always well informed. Mike was efficient and confident, but always took his time…
10-11-2023
Christopher M.
Mr Skinner always kept us updated about the case and was prompt with his responses.
12-13-2018
Robert
“Mr Skinner is an excellent lawyer. He was referred to me and he couldn’t have been more kind, HONEST, and patient. His calm and empathetic demeanor is refreshing. He is very detailed, extremely professional and always made me feel as…
10-15-2020
Staci Y.
Going above and beyond for their clients is an understatement.
12-20-2018
James
If you work with him, he will get you what you want/deserve.
06-13-2018
John K.
“In need of a criminal lawyer, my brother’s friend found himself in trouble and came to my brother and me for help. We immediately thought about Mr. Skinner who had represented my family four years ago. Mr. Skinner is an…
10-11-2017
Todd B.
Working with Mr. Skinner has been a pleasure.
12-19-2018
Jessel
“Skinner helped a relative of mine with a case. His drive to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients is impeccable. I suggest his services to anyone that wants to have their case fought until the end. He went…
05-18-2018
Amanda P.
“I was referred to Mr. Skinner by the bar association. From my experience he’s knowledgeable about law and made me feel at ease every step of the way. I’m definitely glad he accepted my case and recommend him highly. He…
10-19-2018
Chrishan T.
“We have been very pleased with the professional advice and help of the Skinner Law Firm. Both Mike Skinner and Nicole Welch have helped our family immensely. They are very knowledgeable, easy to talk to and easy to get ahold…
10-10-2018
P
Anyone faced with a DUI charge needs Mike Skinner.
12-17-2018
T McGov
A top-notch attorney in West Chester.
10-10-2019
Emily
I am thankful I found and chose Michael Skinner.
05-17-2019
B.H.
From day one I felt comfortable with him and confident that he would help me get the best outcome available.
12-19-2018
Chesco
I don’t think it is possible for a better outcome than what was achieved by Michael J Skinner.
12-14-2017
Keith
“I was looking for a Lawyer and I reached out to Micheal Skinner & his team. My situation needed to be handled professionally and it was dealt with properly! The outcome was great despite the duration of the matter, Mr.Skinner…
10-10-2024
Juriel G.
“5-star A1 Blue-collar No B.S. review. 2 clients under this review Mike is a fantastic lawyer from PFA to Dui Beyond…Avoiding B.S.. Felony charges from West Goshen police in Chester County Pa. working with Judges and DA knowing the laws….
08-15-2024
Fred C.
He was able to get me a lesser sentence and always treated me with respect throughout.
12-08-2019
Ricky
Michael was able to give me clear guidance on my legal options and explained each step of the process.
11-15-2019
Moh Nica
Michael Skinner is an excellent lawyer that knows your rights, and he will indeed fight for you.
12-04-2018
Jamal
Extensive experience with defending DUI’s and I saw this confidence in the courtroom.
12-17-2018
Anne
“Mr. Skinner was very professional and efficient. It was a pleasure doing business with Mr. Skinner as well as his associates!”
10-01-2025
Fran
Michael and Nichole made me feel comfortable as you truly feel that you are discussing your problem with friends.
11-15-2018
John
“Mike Skinner and his team at Skinner Law Firm are consummate professionals. Their expertise, attention to detail, and dedication to client success make them a top choice for legal representation. I highly recommend their services for anyone seeking reliable and…
10-24-2024
Connor G.
“My son was working with a public defender who was looking at his situation in “black & white” and really didn’t listen to his story. We were told to expect 7 to 23 months jail time. Scared, but not financially…
05-14-2020
Laura Z.
I went to Skinner after researching all the law firms in the area and without a doubt would go to him for everything.
05-15-2019
Jordan
“I was looking for a Lawyer and got referred to Micheal Skinner and I’m happy with the results. Had a case open for years that I never got handle and Mike did a great job on the outcome. He and…
10-08-2024
A
“Attorney Mike Skinner is the best attorney in West Chester to help you with criminal court. He is honest, straight to the point and will help you out as much as he can. He is helping me with a current…
10-17-2018
Eric D.
“Mike and his team were great to work with, and he secured an excellent outcome for my case. I highly recommend Skinner law Firm to anyone requiring legal support.”
06-04-2025
Luke
I was a little nervous about everything and just 5 minutes of talking with Mike, I felt at ease.
12-18-2018
Garry W.
His calm presence is also very reassuring for his clients. Highly recommend choosing him.
05-21-2019
Kevin
He was very negotiable and understanding of my circumstances.
11-14-2018
Sahmere
He took me through everything step by step and charged me a fair price for his service.
11-26-2019
Mckenzie
“My experience with Skinner Law Firm has been nothing short of excellent. Not only is Michael Skinner compassionate and eager to help; the people he keeps in his corner as staff are equally intelligent and supportive. His secretary Ms Cinaglia…
08-13-2020
Sarah D.
A statute of limitations determines how long federal prosecutors have to file charges or obtain an indictment against you. Most federal crimes have a statute of limitations of five years. However, some crimes have longer or shorter statutes of limitations.
Certain tax offenses, like failure to file a return or tax evasion, have a six-year deadline. Major fraud against the federal government and involving more than $1 million has a seven-year deadline. Embezzlement has a 10-year statute of limitations, while theft of major artwork has a 20-year statute of limitations.
Federal law allows the deadline to be extended for certain circumstances, such as new DNA evidence or the apprehension of a fugitive.
Also, sex crimes involving minors, terrorism resulting in serious bodily injury or death, and crimes punishable by death have no statute of limitations.
The time a prosecutor has to pursue charges against you depends on the alleged offense. Talk with a federal lawyer about how long you may have to deal with an investigation.
If convicted of a federal offense, you face time in a federal penitentiary, probation, fines, restitution, and other penalties. The federal government has sentencing guidelines that differ from Pennsylvania’s sentencing laws. Typically, federal penalties are harsher than state sentences. However, the specific sentence you face depends on the crime and your criminal history.
Federal judges utilize federal sentencing guidelines and a sentencing table. Federal law divides crimes into 43 offense levels, and a judge will identify the offense level for the crime you were convicted of. A judge will assign you to one of six criminal history categories based on your record and the circumstances surrounding your current offense.
These two factors, the offense level and criminal history category, are used to determine the presumptive sentencing range on the sentencing table. Judges can sentence you within this recommended range or give you a lesser or greater penalty based on mitigating or aggravating factors present in your case.
A federal sentence ranges significantly depending on the offense level and your record. You may be granted probation only or sentenced to decades in federal prison. You may be fined hundreds of dollars or hundreds of thousands. Depending on the crime, you may be required to pay restitution to the victims of the federal government.
You cannot handle allegations of a federal crime the same way you would handle a state-level offense. You need to retain a criminal defense attorney who is admitted to the federal court bar and who has extensive experience defending individuals in federal court. At Skinner Law Firm, we have an impressive track record of handling federal cases and providing aggressive legal representation for clients in and around Chester County, PA. Let us investigates the charges, evaluate the evidence, and use our skill and resources to fight the federal charges against you.
To schedule your free and confidential consultation, call Skinner Law Firm at (610) 436-1410 or contact us online.