Clearwater Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
Federal criminal charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines and permanent damage to your reputation. When you face accusations in federal court, the stakes are exponentially higher than in state-level cases.
At O'Brien Hatfield, federal criminal defense attorney Mark J. O’Brien brings over 25 years of courtroom experience to clients throughout Clearwater and Florida. Established in 2003, our firm combines prosecutorial insight with aggressive defense strategies. Our team includes former federal agents and law enforcement professionals who understand how the government builds cases, allowing us to anticipate prosecution tactics and craft effective defenses.
Clearwater Federal Court Location
Federal cases from Clearwater are prosecuted at the Sam M. Gibbons United States Courthouse, located at 801 North Florida Avenue in Tampa. This Middle District of Florida venue serves Pinellas County and the surrounding communities. Clearwater itself sits along Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast, known for its pristine white sand beaches, vibrant downtown waterfront district and the renowned Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The city’s proximity to Tampa and St. Petersburg creates a dynamic metropolitan area where federal investigations frequently occur.
Why Hire Federal Defense Attorney Mark J. O’Brien Of O'Brien Hatfield?
Mr. O’Brien began his career as a Miami prosecutor before founding his practice dedicated to federal criminal defense. Our skilled team includes a former DEA special agent, a former IRS Criminal Investigation Division special agent, a former United States probation officer, and a former law enforcement detective. This insider knowledge provides critical advantages when facing federal prosecutors in complex criminal defense matters.
How Do Federal Charges Differ From Florida State Criminal Charges?
Federal charges involve violations of the United States Code rather than Florida statutes. Federal agencies, including the FBI, DEA and ATF, investigate these offenses. Federal sentencing guidelines impose harsher penalties than state courts. Our federal crimes attorney understands these critical differences.
What Federal Charges Does The Firm Defend Against?
Our federal criminal defense team represents clients in most federal matters including:
- Drug trafficking and conspiracy
- Wire fraud, mail fraud, embezzlement and other white-collar offenses
- Firearm and weapons charges
- Child exploitation and internet-based offenses
- Health care fraud, contractor fraud and tax fraud investigations
What Is The Federal Case Timeline?
Federal cases begin with investigation and indictment, followed by initial appearance and arraignment. Discovery and motion practice consume several months before cases resolve through plea agreements or proceed to trial.
Contact O'Brien Hatfield For Skilled & Aggressive Federal Criminal Defense In Clearwater
If you face federal charges in Clearwater or Florida, contact O'Brien Hatfield online or call 813-440-2347 to discuss your case.
NOTE: MR. O’BRIEN ONLY REPRESENTS INDIVIDUALS AND COMPANIES ACCUSED OF CRIMES. HE DOES NOT REPRESENT VICTIMS OF CRIME OR HANDLE CIVIL CASES. IF YOU BELIEVE YOU ARE A VICTIM OF A CRIME OR NEED ASSISTANCE IN A CIVIL CASE, PLEASE CALL YOUR LOCAL BAR ASSOCIATION FOR AN ATTORNEY REFERRAL PROGRAM. PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT MR. O’BRIEN IF YOU BELIEVE YOU ARE A VICTIM OF A CRIME OR NEED HELP IN A CIVIL CASE. HE REGRETS HE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ACCEPT YOUR CASE. MR. O’BRIEN ONLY HANDLES CRIMINAL MATTERS.