Understanding the differences between a state and federal charge

Whether your case falls under state or federal jurisdiction can significantly impact the outcome of your circumstances if you’re facing criminal charges. While Pennsylvania has its own set of laws, certain crimes fall under federal jurisdiction.

The distinction between state and federal charges plays a crucial role in how a case is handled, legal consequences and the severity of potential penalties.

What makes a crime a state crime vs. a federal crime?

The main difference between state and federal charges boils down to the jurisdiction under which the crime falls. In the U.S., state and federal governments operate under separate legal systems, each with its own criminal statutes.

Most criminal offenses are prosecuted at the state level and handled by state courts under Pennsylvania’s legal code. This includes crimes like:

• Theft
• Assault
• Burglary
• Drug possession

These crimes are considered violations of state law because they occur within the state’s jurisdiction and affect local communities.

In contrast, federal crimes are offenses that violate federal law or cross state lines. Some criminal actions that may be prosecuted at the federal level include:

• Mail fraud
• Drug trafficking
• Crimes committed on federal property, such as national parks
• Crimes that involve federal agencies, like the FBI or DEA
• Crimes that occur across state or international borders, like human trafficking

Even some cases of drug-related offenses, if large-scale or involving distribution across state lines, can shift from state to federal jurisdiction.