Morristown, NJ criminal defense lawyer Blair R. Zwillman explains how federal crimes are different from state crimes. He notes that federal crimes differ from state crimes primarily in the sophistication and scale of the prosecutions. Federal cases often involve fraud, bank robberies, white-collar offenses, and other serious matters, particularly commercial or financial crimes. While homicide exists at both levels, federal cases tend to be more complex and technically demanding.

He notes that federal prosecutors are typically more experienced in trial practice, supported by investigative agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or Health and Human Services, and approach cases with thorough preparation. Unlike some state prosecutions, federal prosecutors generally pursue cases they are confident can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt from the outset.

As a result, federal cases are often more intellectually challenging and require specialized expertise from defense attorneys to navigate the heightened complexity and rigor of the system.