Honest Advice. Strategic Representation.
We're In Your Corner
In some situations, there is federal jurisdiction that gives federal prosecutors the right to prosecute the case. In other situations, the offense may be considered both a state and federal crime. Federal prosecutors may choose when they want to step in, take a case over from the state, and prosecute it.
In some cases, state and federal prosecutors can simultaneously prosecute the case without double jeopardy arising because the offense is considered a different crime in different jurisdictions.
Most crimes fall under state law and jurisdiction.
However, federal jurisdiction applies when the crime:
The government agencies that investigate and prosecute state
and federal crimes are often different.
A consequence of federal crime prosecution is that there are usually much more expansive resources available in these cases. Federal crimes are prosecuted under federal law, irrespective of where the crime was committed.
There are also differences in the procedures surrounding the prosecution of federal and state crimes, including:
Another significant difference between state and federal courts is the potential punishment you can face. Federal sentencing guidelines apply to federal crimes. Federal penalties are usually much longer than state penalties for similar offenses, especially drug crimes. If convicted, you will go to federal prison instead of state prison.
These are established by state law and are subject to the penalties described in these laws.
Our attorneys stand ready to hear your story and give you the legal advice you need to take the next steps.
Every case is unique, and so is every attorney. At Kurtz & Blum, our team of Raleigh-based attorneys brings decades of combined experience in criminal defense, traffic offenses, and family law. Each attorney has a distinct approach to legal representation, whether you need a skilled litigator to fight for you in court or a strategic negotiator to resolve a family law matter.
We know that hiring a lawyer can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time dealing with legal issues. That’s why our entire legal team works together to ensure you get the right attorney for your case, based on your specific legal needs.
And what makes our team even more special? Our paw-torney at law – Augie. Known around Raleigh as the “Law Dog,” Augie takes a team-based approach to every case, ensuring justice is always served with a side of belly rubs. Whether he’s offering comfort during tough cases or greeting clients with a wagging tail, Augie brings warmth, loyalty, and a touch of fun to our practice.
At Kurtz & Blum, we are proud to serve clients in Raleigh and across North Carolina, providing trusted legal representation in criminal defense, family law, and more. Here’s what our clients have to say about working with our team:
