Episode Summary:

In this hard-hitting episode, James Hopkins breaks down the real differences between state and federal prosecutions in New York. From long-term FBI wiretap investigations to immediate street arrests, why federal sentences are almost always harsher, how joint task forces decide venue, the hidden dangers of talking without counsel, and why cooperation (or “becoming a rat”) is sometimes the only realistic path to a lighter sentence.

Key Timestamps:

00:01 – Show Introduction

00:50 – The Federal Trigger: Interstate Element or Big Agency Investigation

02:00 – State = Fast Arrest | Federal = Years of Surveillance

04:00 – Joint Task Forces: Who Decides State vs. Federal?

05:30 – Federal Prosecutors: More Time, More Money, Harsher Sentences

07:00 – Federal Sentencing Guidelines vs. State Plea Deals (Judge Stays Out)

09:00 – Cooperation & Acceptance of Responsibility: The Federal Reality

11:00 – Target Letter or Fed Knock: Say NOTHING Without Counsel

13:00 – Martha Stewart Lesson: Lying to Feds = Separate Felony

14:00 – Can You Force It to State Court? (Sometimes Yes)

15:30 – Dual Sovereignty: Double Jeopardy Doesn’t Always Apply

16:00 – Closing Resources

About the Show:

"Reasonable Doubt – James Hopkins for the Defense" pulls back the curtain on real criminal defense in New York state and federal courts. James Hopkins brings 30+ years of trial-tested insight from homicide to white-collar cases so listeners understand their rights and the system.

In this episode of Reasonable Doubt, attorney James Hopkins explores the intricate world of white collar crime in New York. With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense, Hopkins shares his insight into embezzlement, fraud, forgery, and financial misconduct cases. He discusses how these cases differ from other crimes, the emotional and professional toll they take on clients, and why early legal representation is crucial when facing federal or state investigations.

0:00 – Introduction to James Hopkins and today’s topic 1:00 – Common types of white collar crimes 2:10 – What makes white collar crime different 3:00 – Common concerns clients face 4:00 – Misconceptions about white collar defendants 5:15 – How James Hopkins develops a defense strategy 6:40 – The impact of New York’s legal landscape 8:00 – The role of federal agencies in investigations 9:00 – A challenging federal case and lessons learned 10:00 – Building trust with anxious clients

Reasonable Doubt is a legal podcast where attorney James Hopkins breaks down real criminal cases and provides expert insights into how the justice system works. With decades of courtroom experience, he brings clarity and compassion to complex legal issues affecting New Yorkers today.

In this episode of Reasonable Doubt, attorney James Hopkins breaks down the complexities of DWI charges in New York State. With over 30 years of criminal defense experience and a background as a former prosecutor, Hopkins shares his expertise on what to do after a DWI arrest, the differences between misdemeanor and felony charges, and how legal representation can make or break your case.

0:00 – Introduction and background on James Hopkins’ DWI experience 1:40 – How common DWI arrests are in New York 2:30 – The difference between misdemeanor and felony DWI charges 4:00 – What to do immediately after a DWI arrest 5:15 – Refusing breath or blood tests: rights and consequences 6:45 – What happens to your driver’s license after a DWI arrest 8:10 – Why hiring an attorney early makes a difference 10:20 – How James Hopkins builds a strong DWI defense strategy 12:30 – Helping clients who feel hopeless about their DWI case 13:50 – What sets James Hopkins apart as a defense attorney

Reasonable Doubt is a legal podcast where attorney James Hopkins dives deep into criminal defense topics, offering expert insights and practical advice for anyone facing serious charges in New York.