Federal Cybercrime Lawyer in West Palm Beach
Technology has created numerous changes, ranging from how people communicate to how companies conduct business. Additionally, technology has ushered in a new classification of crimes which are referred to as internet crimes or cybercrimes. They include crimes involving private companies or government networks and computers.
While many people are just learning about federal cybercrimes, the first law went into effect in 1986. With more than 34 years of legal experience, Ronald S. Chapman started his career around the same time and has defended numerous clients facing these charges. Reach out to our West Palm Beach federal cybercrimes defense lawyer today to learn more about the charges against you and possible legal strategies.
Federal Cybercrime Classifications
You can be charged with:
- Crimes against organizations or people
- Crimes against property
- Crimes against government
Reach out to our federal cybercrime attorney to discuss the circumstances of your situation.
Types Of Cybercrimes
The government can charge you with a federal cybercrime if it believes you have engaged in illegal activity on a computer, network, or the internet. A broad range of offenses fall under the cybercrime category, including computer hacking, copyright infringement, cyberstalking, DDoS attacks, extortion, and fraud.
The list of chargeable offenses has expanded since the government passed the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act in 1984. Ronald S. Chapman stays on top of the amendments and changes, as well as ever-evolving defense strategies. You face steep, life-changing penalties if convicted, so contact our West Palm Beach federal cybercrime attorney today.
Potential Legal Consequences
Federal cybercrimes have steep legal and personal consequences that can impact you for the rest of your life. If convicted, the judge can sentence you to federal prison and force you to pay restitution and fines. Additionally, the judge might place restrictions on your internet usage.
However, the impact can go well beyond the sentence the judge imposes. First, many cybercrimes are charged as felonies, which means you will not be able to own a firearm if convicted. Additionally, your professional license might be suspended or revoked if you are convicted. It is even more serious for those who are not citizens of the United States. Due to the severity of the crime, you could face deportation proceedings.
Fortunately, you can defend yourself with help from a federal cybercrime defense lawyer in West Palm Beach. With more than 34 years of experience in federal court, Ronald S. Chapman can help you challenge the government’s case.
Cybercrime Evidence
The statute of limitations for most cybercrimes is five years, giving the FBI ample time to gather evidence and build a case against you. During that time, the FBI might collect digital data from internet service providers and websites. Additionally, the FBI can get an order to seize your devices and extract the data.
You do not have to wait until you are charged to contact a West Palm Beach federal cybercrime defense lawyer. Instead, you can consult with an attorney once you know you are under investigation. Then your lawyer can be more proactive than if you wait until after you’ve been arrested.
Defending Against Cybercrimes
Your attorney needs to conduct a thorough investigation before formulating your defense strategy. He might begin by determining if the federal government has the evidence necessary to prove its case. If the prosecutor is unwilling to negotiate in a reasonable manner, your case may go to trial, but it will be up to the prosecutor to provide concrete evidence that you are guilty. It will be your lawyer’s job to try to rebut such evidence.