If you’ve been charged with a financial crime, you may wonder: can the feds take over a state white-collar case in Florida?
“Could this go federal?”
The answer is yes—and when it does, the stakes go way up. Here’s what you need to know if you’re facing fraud, embezzlement, or financial crime charges and are worried about federal involvement
🚨 What Happens If the Feds Take Over a State White-Collar Case?
Federal white-collar cases are handled in U.S. District Court under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.
This means:
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes the case
Federal sentencing guidelines apply (often harsher)
You may face indictment by grand jury
Federal agents may investigate further or re-arrest you
In some situations, federal prosecutors will request the state to drop the case so they can proceed with a unified federal indictment.
🧠 Why the Feds Might Want the Case
Federal prosecutors may take over a white-collar case because:
They want tougher penalties
They believe they can prove a broader conspiracy
The crime affects interstate or national markets
They’re already prosecuting related defendants
They have access to more sophisticated resources and investigators
This is a key concern for anyone wondering, can the feds take over a state white-collar case in Florida, especially when interstate conduct or multiple agencies are involved.
The DOJ’s Criminal Division has entire units devoted to white-collar crime enforcement, which may explain why federal prosecutors get involved.
❌ Double Jeopardy Doesn’t Always Apply
Because state and federal courts are considered separate sovereigns, it is technically possible to be charged in both systems for the same conduct.
⚖️ However, this is rare—and usually, one jurisdiction defers to the other to avoid duplicate prosecutions.
🛡️ How a White-Collar Defense Lawyer Can Help
If your case has the potential to go federal, it’s critical to act early.
At Michael White, P.A., we identify federal red flags fast—and position your case to avoid unnecessary escalation.
Attorney White has extensive experience defending financial crime allegations, both at the state and federal levels, and knows how prosecutors decide who takes the lead.
👉 Schedule a free consultation today to protect your rights and prepare your defense.
🔍 More Answers About Federal vs. State White-Collar Charges in Florida
❓ Can the feds take over my fraud case from the State of Florida?
Yes. If your case involves interstate activity, federal statutes, or large financial losses, it may be prosecuted federally.
❓ Will I be charged again if the feds step in?
Possibly. The State may drop its case, or you could face a new indictment in federal court—even for the same conduct.
❓ Are federal penalties harsher than state penalties?
Often, yes. Federal sentencing guidelines can result in longer prison terms, especially when large sums of money or multiple victims are involved.
❓ What kinds of crimes go federal?
Wire fraud, mail fraud, tax evasion, securities fraud, and conspiracy to commit financial crimes are common federal charges.
❓ Can I be charged in both state and federal court?
Technically yes, but it’s uncommon. Prosecutors usually coordinate to avoid duplicating charges across jurisdictions.