Internet Crimes Lawyers

Internet Crimes Lawyers in the United States

Federal and state prosecutors have dramatically increased enforcement of internet-related offenses over the past decade. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center received over 880,000 complaints in 2023 alone, with reported losses exceeding $12.5 billion. If you're under investigation or facing charges, an experienced internet crimes lawyer can protect your rights and build a defense strategy tailored to your case.

What Internet Crimes Law Covers

Internet crimes span a broad range of offenses involving computers, networks, or digital communication. Common charges include identity theft, phishing, hacking (unauthorized computer access), online fraud, cyberstalking, and distribution of illegal content. Many of these offenses carry federal charges under laws like the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.

Other areas include wire fraud conducted through email, ransomware attacks, credit card fraud, and intellectual property theft. Prosecutors often layer multiple charges together, which can result in sentences measured in years rather than months. Cases frequently involve cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies.

When to Hire an Internet Crimes Lawyer

• You've been contacted by law enforcement about an online investigation or received a target letter from a federal agency
• Your devices — computers, phones, or hard drives — have been seized under a search warrant
• You've been charged with wire fraud, unauthorized access, or any computer-related offense
• Your employer or a third party has accused you of data theft or unauthorized use of proprietary systems
• You're facing allegations of online harassment, cyberstalking, or distributing prohibited material

How the Legal Process Works

Internet crime cases typically begin with an investigation long before charges are filed. Agencies like the FBI, Secret Service, or state cybercrime units may spend months collecting digital evidence. During this phase, a defense attorney can intervene early to challenge warrant validity or negotiate with prosecutors.

Once charges are filed, the case moves to arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, and potentially trial. Digital forensic evidence plays a central role — your lawyer will often retain independent forensic experts to examine data, metadata, and chain-of-custody records. Roughly 90% of federal criminal cases end in plea agreements, making early defense preparation a significant factor in outcomes.

How Penalties and Sentencing Are Determined

• Financial loss amount — federal sentencing guidelines increase penalties based on the total dollar value of losses caused to victims
• Number of victims — cases involving large numbers of affected individuals carry enhanced sentences
• Sophistication of the offense — courts consider whether the crime involved advanced technical methods or organized planning
• Prior criminal history — repeat offenders face significantly longer sentences under both state and federal guidelines
• Cooperation with authorities — defendants who assist investigations may receive reduced sentences through plea negotiations

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged with a federal crime for internet activity?

Yes. Because internet activity crosses state lines by nature, federal prosecutors frequently claim jurisdiction. Offenses under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, wire fraud statutes, and child exploitation laws are all prosecuted at the federal level, where penalties tend to be harsher than state courts.

What should I do if my devices are seized by police?

Do not answer questions or consent to additional searches. Contact a criminal defense lawyer with experience in digital evidence immediately. Your attorney can review the warrant for defects, challenge the scope of the seizure, and ensure that investigators don't access data beyond what the warrant authorizes.