Criminal Defense- If you have been charged with a crime in federal or state court, an experienced criminal defense attorney will help you avoid costly mistakes as well as provide you with competent advice and representation. Hannah represents clients who have been charged with any crime, but here are the most common:
Fraud and Financial Crimes- wire fraud, tax evasion, mail fraud, insurance fraud, mortgage fraud, securities fraud
Bribery
Embezzlement
Money laundering
Racketeering/RICO
Conspiracy
White Collar Crimes
Drug Offenses
Gun Offenses
Driving Offenses
Sex Offenses
Federal District Court: Pleas and Trials- Your best defense to a charge is an effective defense from the beginning of the case. Hannah starts fighting for you at the initial hearing and continues to do so every step of the way. She challenges the government at every turn. Communication between the attorney and client is very important during this time, and Hannah makes every effort to ensure that you are an active participant in your defense. This may include negotiating a favorable plea or taking the case to trial, and Hannah is not afraid to go to trial. She is a zealous advocate and formidable opponent.
Federal Appeals- Every criminal defendant may appeal improper decisions made by the trial court. Errors should be corrected. Clients should expect an experienced appellate attorney to carefully and thoroughly review the record, draft well-researched briefs, and vigorously argue your case in the appellate court. Hannah has been through this precise legal process with over 65 clients and represents clients in the federal appellate courts, including the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, and the Supreme Court of the United States.
Post-Conviction Appeals- Following the direct appeal process, criminal defendants may appeal their conviction through a post-appeal process. To challenge a federal conviction, the process requires a motion to vacate, set aside, or correct the sentence, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2255. To challenge a state conviction, the process requires a writ of habeas corpus, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2254. Post-conviction appeals are highly complex in nature and have strict time limits.
Sentencing Issues- This is a key area where the government's calculations should be challenged. Having an attorney with a keen eye for detail who understands the United States Sentencing Guidelines is critical. Hannah has successfully helped to reduce her clients' sentences in both the district court and on appeal.
Restitution Issues- These issues can arise both before and after sentencing. Errors are easier to correct before a judgment is issued or on appeal. However, an attorney familiar with the statutes, guidelines, and implementation of a judgment ordering restitution can help a client with questions or issues at any time. In her last three cases where restitution was an issue, Hannah relieved clients of over $17 million in restitution debts.
Post-Judgment Issues- Issues may arise immediately following sentencing or years later. One area involves federal supervised release. Hannah represents clients who are eligible for early termination of supervised release as well as those who are accused of violating the terms of supervised release.
Civil Forfeiture Defense- If you were searched by the Drug Enforcement Agency at the Chicago O'Hare International Airport or Chicago Midway Airport, and the DEA seized your money, Hannah can help you get it back. Seizure of money has become all too common, and it requires a Civil Forfeiture Defense Attorney to successfully challenge the forfeiture. Hannah helps clients initiate the administrative forfeiture proceedings and represents clients in federal court to obtain the return of their money.