Fighting the Full Weight of the Federal Government

Federal criminal prosecution is unlike anything in state court. The resources available to federal prosecutors — the FBI, DEA, IRS Criminal Investigation, ATF, DHS, and the full investigative apparatus of the U.S. government — are brought to bear against defendants with overwhelming force. Sentences are typically longer, the rules of evidence are strict, and federal judges are bound by sentencing guidelines that can drastically limit judicial discretion.

George J. Vila has spent over two decades mastering the federal criminal justice system. From the moment a grand jury subpoena is received through arraignment, pre-trial motions, trial, sentencing, and appeal — George provides experienced, formidable representation at every stage.

Common Federal Charges We Defend

• Drug trafficking and distribution conspiracies (21 U.S.C. § 841, § 846)
• Money laundering (18 U.S.C. § 1956, § 1957)
• Wire fraud and mail fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343, § 1341)
• RICO — Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (18 U.S.C. § 1962)
• Healthcare fraud and Medicare/Medicaid fraud
• Bank fraud and mortgage fraud
• Tax evasion and tax fraud (26 U.S.C. § 7201)
• Firearms offenses (18 U.S.C. § 922)
• Immigration fraud and visa fraud
• Conspiracy charges (18 U.S.C. § 371)

Federal Courts Where We Practice

George J. Vila is admitted to practice in the Southern, Middle, and Northern Districts of Florida, the Southern District of Texas, the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York, the District of Puerto Rico, the Third District Court of Appeal, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and the First Circuit Court of Appeals.

Pre-Indictment Representation

If you have received a federal grand jury subpoena, a target letter, or believe you are under federal investigation, contact our firm without delay. Pre-indictment representation — engaging with federal prosecutors before charges are filed — can be the most critical intervention in a federal case. We have a proven track record of cases where proactive representation resulted in charges never being filed.

Federal Sentencing

Even after conviction, the fight is not over. Federal sentencing guidelines, safety valve provisions, substantial assistance motions, and departures offer significant opportunities to reduce prison exposure. We prepare thorough sentencing memoranda, argue for below-guidelines sentences, and challenge guideline calculations at every opportunity.