Robert E. Abreu

Is an experienced attorney based in Miami, Florida, where he has practiced for over 25 years as a member of the Florida Bar. Throughout his distinguished career, he has represented numerous individuals and companies in civil commercial litigation, as well as clients in a wide range of federal and state cases, and in immigration law. Founder of the firm Abreu Law PLLC, Abreu leverages his extensive knowledge of the judicial system to provide strategic and personalized representation.

Abreu Law PLLC · Miami, Florida

Legal Questions, Direct Answers

Federal Criminal Defense  |  EB-2 NIW Immigration

Federal Criminal Defense — Federal charges carry mandatory minimums and complex sentencing guidelines. Attorney Robert E. Abreu has personally handled 130+ federal criminal matters, including narcotics trafficking, money laundering, OFAC/Clinton List matters, and extradition proceedings. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Q 01

What is the difference between a federal crime and a state crime?

The distinction is fundamental—federal and state systems operate in completely different ways.

FeatureFederal CaseState Case
ProsecutorU.S. Attorney's Office (Department of Justice)State or County District Attorney
CourtU.S. District CourtState Circuit/Superior Court
SentencingFederal Sentencing Guidelines (highly structured)State statutes (more discretion)
ParoleDoes not exist — minimum 85% of sentence must be servedGenerally available
InvestigationFBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, OFACLocal/State law enforcement
Typical pathOften resolves by pleaNot a prediction about any case

Federal prosecutors rarely file charges unless they are confident of a conviction. A federal indictment is a serious emergency requiring immediate, specialized legal counsel.

Q 02

What are the most common federal charges in South Florida?

South Florida's geographic location and international connections make it a hotspot for several federal prosecution categories:

  • Narcotics trafficking and conspiracy (21 U.S.C. § 846)
  • Money laundering (18 U.S.C. § 1956)
  • OFAC / Clinton List violations — sanctions and international trade restrictions
  • Wire and Mail Fraud — healthcare fraud, bank fraud, Ponzi schemes
  • Extradition matters — international clients sought by U.S. authorities
Q 03

What should I do if federal agents contact me?

Critical: Your Constitutional Rights
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercise both immediately.

DO: Remain calm, clearly state you will not speak without an attorney, and call a federal defense lawyer before any further contact.

DO NOT: Do not try to "explain" yourself informally, do not lie (which is a separate crime), and do not consent to any searches of your property or devices.

EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) — a self-petition green card path for professionals whose work benefits the United States. Attorney Robert E. Abreu and his team have guided clients through this process from Miami and Bogotá.
Q 04

What is the EB-2 NIW visa and who qualifies for it?

The EB-2 NIW is an employment-based green card category that allows foreign nationals to self-petition—without a U.S. employer—if their work benefits the U.S.

Qualification requires holding an Advanced Degree (Master's or higher) or demonstrating Exceptional Ability in your field, alongside meeting the Dhanasar national interest criteria.

Facing Federal Charges? Act Immediately.

Federal investigations move fast. Call Abreu Law in Coral Gables — early counsel can matter.

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Ready to Evaluate Your EB-2 NIW Eligibility?

Attorney Robert E. Abreu and his team have guided clients through the EB-2 NIW process. Schedule a consultation today.

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