Maine Federal Endangered Species Criminal Defense Lawyer 

Federal violations of the Endangered Species Act are nothing to be taken lightly. If convicted, these charges can result in years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines. If you are facing federal charges, the best thing that you can do is hire experienced criminal defense counsel as soon in the process as possible. Not all attorneys are qualified to represent you against federal charges, because it requires being licensed to practice in federal court, so it is important to do your research and hire an attorney who is experienced in trying these kinds of cases. The Endangered Species Criminal Defense Attorneys at STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers are qualified to fight for you regardless of whether you are charged at a state or federal level. The sooner that you reach out, the sooner that we can begin building the best possible defense for your case and working to ensure the best possible outcome for you. 

Why Was I Charged with Violating the Federal Endangered Species Act?

There are a number of reasons that you may have been charged with violating the Federal Endangered Species Act, however, all of them involve some sort of involvement with the animal of an endangered species. This may involve accidentally hunting an endangered species, killing an endangered animal, possessing an endangered animal, harassing an endangered animal, harassing or causing harm to an endangered animal, importing or exporting endangered animals or their parts, transporting, selling, or purchasing endangered animals or their parts. If you have been charged with any of these crimes, it is critical that you contact an experienced endangered animal defense attorney so that they can begin working on your defense. Having an attorney can make all the difference. 

In order to establish a violation of this act, the prosecution must show that the defendant partook in these actions knowingly. A good defense will vary depending on the facts of your case, but will likely focus on establishing that you lacked the knowledge necessary to have intentionally committed this crime. If you do not understand why you were charged with this crime, it is also important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to make sure that you understand the underpinnings of the case. If you were incorrectly charged or can provide proof that you were not the correct defendant, your lawyer may be able to help have the case against you dropped before you ever even have to set foot in the courtroom. In short, procrastination will only hurt you in this situation, and being proactive and reaching out for a legal consultation could make or break how this entire process unfolds and what the outcome for you will be. 

Contact STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers to Get Started on Your Defense

If you are facing charges for violating the Federal Endangered Species Act, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Jail time and tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars are on the line, so the time to invest in yourself and your defense is now. Contact the experienced Maine Federal Endangered Species Act Litigation Defense Attorneys at STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers today to schedule a consultation.