Blog Posts - Firm news
History of Federal Sentencing Guidelines
The Federal Sentencing Guidelines are a critical component of federal criminal cases. They provide a framework for determining the appropriate sentences for various federal offenses. The guidelines were established to ensure consistency and fairness in sentencing, but their complexity can make them challenging to understand. At the Law Offices of...
Cooperation in a Federal Criminal Case
Cooperating with the government in a federal criminal case can significantly impact sentencing outcomes and may be a strategic option for defendants facing serious charges. Cooperation often involves providing information, testifying against others, or assisting in an investigation. At the Law Offices of Peter Katz, we understand the complexities and...
Aspects of Federal Investigative Agencies
Federal investigative agencies play a central role in enforcing federal laws and examining criminal activities across the United States. Each agency has a unique jurisdiction, specialized areas of focus, and investigative techniques tailored to address specific types of crime. At the Law Offices of Peter Katz, we work with clients...
Privilege in Federal Criminal Cases
The attorney-client privilege is a fundamental legal protection that allows defendants to communicate openly with their attorneys without fear that their discussions will be disclosed. This privilege is critical to the court process in federal criminal cases, where trust and confidentiality are essential to building an effective defense. At the...
Understanding Federal Districts in NY & NJ
What You Need to Know About the EDNY, SDNY, and DNJ Federal district courts hear cases involving violations of federal law. For residents of New York and New Jersey, there are three key districts where federal cases are heard: the Eastern District of New York (EDNY), the Southern District of...
Biden Grants Our Client Clemency
President Joe Biden recently granted clemency to over 1500 individuals, highlighting his commitment to criminal justice reform. This act of mercy offers some hope to those who have been affected by longstanding inequities and sentencing disparities within the federal justice system, especially those convicted of non-violent drug-related offenses. With this...
How is tax fraud different than tax avoidance
Understanding the difference between tax fraud and tax avoidance is crucial for anyone who pays taxes. While both terms involve taxes, they have different meanings and legal implications. While taxes can be complex and challenging, understanding the difference between tax fraud and tax avoidance can help you navigate the tax...
Why is Elon Musk in trouble with the securities and exchange commission
Elon Musk is the richest man in the world and the CEO of Tesla. He also is very influential when it comes to the stock market and cryptocurrency market. One word from him can cause major swings. According to CNBC, Musk got into trouble with the SEC in September 2018...
Avoiding embezzlement using your company card responsibly
Company credit cards can have great advantages when used properly. Not only can you have greater flexibility, but you can also rely less on others and improve your productivity. However, it is important to understand responsible spending practices. Casual or frivolous spending can have many repercussions including criminal charges of...
When may nonpublic material information lead to federal charges
Material information includes reports about a corporation’s activities. The information could influence the price of the company’s stock. As noted by the CFA Institute, when considering a stock purchase, you may review material information such as financial records and potential merger targets. As its name implies, nonpublic material information is...
How does mail and wire fraud differ
Fraud is a serious crime with severe penalties, no matter what type of fraudulent activity a person ends up involved in. Mail and wire fraud are two examples. Each has its own unique set of defining traits, as well as its potential penalties. However, at the same time, both mail...
Bank fraud and money laundering allegations
Business owners applying for loans may face bank fraud allegations. Prosecutors may claim falsified documents helped enable a loan approval. According to the Department of Justice, providing false statements that influence a lending decision may classify as unlawful conduct. Applicants with documents purportedly showing assets valued higher than their worth...