Have you been charged with a federal crime in Dallas, Texas? Texas Defense Firm can help when you call (469) 772-9509. A Dallas federal crimes lawyer from our team will stand up to federal prosecutors, protect your rights, and fight for your freedom, reputation, and future at every stage of the case.
Federal prosecutions are different from state charges—they involve powerful agencies, strict procedures, and sentencing guidelines that can make the process intimidating. Having an experienced attorney by your side can level the playing field. Call today to get a skilled advocate on your side.
Why Choose Texas Defense Firm To Defend You Against Federal Charges?
You need a team with the strength and experience to stand up to federal prosecutors if you’re facing charges. Texas Defense Firm offers nearly two centuries of combined legal practice and a proven reputation for defending clients in even the toughest cases in Dallas, TX.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Our attorneys bring 200+ years of combined courtroom experience, successfully handling cases from drug trafficking and conspiracy to white-collar crimes and firearms charges.
- We build personalized strategies for every case, analyzing investigations and evidence to craft defenses tailored to each client’s circumstances.
- We focus on client-centered representation, providing clear communication, responsiveness, and guidance at every stage.
- We have a strong record of dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable outcomes, reflecting our determination to fight for the best possible result.
Contact us today to speak with a seasoned Dallas criminal defense attorney about your case.
What Federal Crimes Are Commonly Charged in Dallas, TX?
Federal criminal jurisdiction comes into play when conduct crosses state lines, occurs on federal property, or violates federal statutes. Some of the most common charges prosecuted in Dallas federal courts include:
- Drug trafficking and distribution: Drug crimes that involve large quantities of controlled substances, interstate activity, or organized networks are often prosecuted federally. Agencies such as the DEA and FBI devote significant resources to these cases. Convictions can result in decades behind bars.
- White-collar crimes: Federal white-collar charges often involve allegations of fraud, embezzlement, wire fraud, bank fraud, tax evasion, or insider trading. These cases are highly complex and require detailed analysis of financial records, electronic communications, and expert testimony. The penalties can be substantial.
- Firearms and weapons offenses: Federal firearms charges can arise from unlawful possession, trafficking across state lines, or use of a firearm during a federal crime of violence or drug trafficking offense. Convictions often carry mandatory prison terms that judges cannot reduce.
- Immigration offenses: Dallas is a hub for federal immigration enforcement. Charges may include illegal re-entry after deportation, document fraud, alien smuggling, or harboring. Penalties can involve imprisonment, deportation, and permanent bars to re-entry.
- Conspiracy and organized crime: Federal prosecutors frequently pursue conspiracy charges, which allow them to hold individuals accountable for participating in broader criminal plans — even if they did not personally commit the underlying act. Racketeering (RICO), human trafficking, and other organized crime allegations can carry lengthy sentences.
- Kidnapping and other interstate crimes: When an alleged crime involves crossing state borders, such as kidnapping, human trafficking, or transporting stolen goods, federal jurisdiction applies. These cases carry some of the harshest potential sentences under federal law.
Federal cases are complex, high-stakes, and require an attorney who knows how to challenge the prosecution at every step.
What Are the Potential Penalties for Federal Crimes in Texas?
Federal convictions can dramatically alter the trajectory of your life. Penalties are governed by federal sentencing guidelines and vary based on your charge and criminal history:
- Incarceration: Sentences can range from months to life behind bars in the most serious offenses. The federal sentencing framework leaves little room for lenient outcomes.
- Probation and supervised release: In certain cases, federal courts may impose probation or supervised release either in place of or following imprisonment. Probation involves extensive oversight, reporting requirements, and limited freedoms.
- Fines and financial penalties: Federal fines can be hefty, especially in white-collar or commercial-related cases. They can range from modest fines to multi-million-dollar judgments.
Beyond formal penalties, convictions may bring additional lasting effects in the form of collateral consequences.
Collateral Consequences of a Federal Conviction
A federal conviction can result in far-reaching consequences for your civil rights and future opportunities. You may experience:
- Loss of voting rights: In Texas, individuals convicted of a felony lose their right to vote until they complete their sentence, including incarceration, parole, and probation.
- Firearm restrictions: Federal law prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. This restriction is permanent unless rights are formally restored.
- Employment and licensing consequences: A federal conviction may disqualify you from certain jobs, especially those requiring professional licenses, security clearances, or positions of public trust. Many employers also conduct background checks that reveal federal convictions.
- Immigration consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation, denial of re-entry, or permanent bars to citizenship following a federal conviction.
- Jury service and public office: Convicted felons in Texas are barred from serving on juries and from holding public office until their full sentence is complete.
- Housing and financial barriers: Some federal convictions can make it harder to secure housing, qualify for government programs, or obtain loans and financial aid.
These collateral effects make having skilled legal representation all the more important. An experienced criminal defense attorney can defend your rights and help you avoid the worst consequences of a conviction.
Defenses Against Federal Criminal Charges
Every federal case is unique, but several legal defenses may be available depending on the facts and circumstances. At Texas Defense Firm, we carefully evaluate which strategies are best suited for your case.
Common defenses include:
- Lack of evidence: Federal prosecutors must prove every element of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is circumstantial, inconsistent, or improperly obtained, we may be able to dismantle the government’s case.
- Unlawful search and seizure: If investigators violated your Fourth Amendment rights through an illegal search or seizure, we could move to suppress critical evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Entrapment: In some cases, federal agents may induce individuals to commit crimes they otherwise would not have attempted. When entrapment occurs, it can be a strong defense against conviction.
- Procedural errors: Federal cases are governed by strict procedural rules. Mistakes by investigators or prosecutors may provide grounds to challenge charges.
- Constitutional violations: If law enforcement violates your due process rights or protections against self-incrimination, you may have a basis for dismissal.
Defending against federal charges requires a tailored approach built on the facts of your case.
Federal Investigations in Dallas, TX
In many instances, you may learn you are under federal investigation before charges are filed. Agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, and Homeland Security conduct lengthy investigations, sometimes lasting months or even years.
Understanding what lies ahead can help reduce uncertainty. A typical federal case in Dallas involves several stages:
- Investigation and indictment: Federal agencies investigate and present evidence to a grand jury. If probable cause is found, an indictment is issued.
- Initial appearance and bail: After arrest, you’ll appear before a magistrate judge. Bail (often referred to as bond) may be set, though federal courts are stricter than state courts when it comes to release conditions.
- Discovery and pre-trial motions: Both sides exchange evidence. Defense attorneys can file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge the prosecution’s theories.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, a federal jury will decide guilt or innocence. Federal prosecutors are aggressive, but a skilled defense team can expose weaknesses in their case.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is determined under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, though judges retain some discretion. Strong advocacy at this stage can significantly reduce penalties.
If you’ve received a target letter, grand jury subpoena, or have reason to believe you’re being investigated, it is vital to contact an attorney immediately. Early intervention can sometimes prevent charges altogether or position you more favorably if charges are filed.
Even after conviction, you may have grounds to appeal based on legal errors, constitutional violations, or improper sentencing.
Early Legal Intervention is Critical
Time is not on your side in a federal investigation. Prosecutors begin building their case long before charges are filed, and by the time you are indicted, they may already have a substantial head start.
Early legal intervention allows your defense team to:
- Protect your constitutional rights from the outset.
- Prevent you from making statements that could be used against you.
- Investigate facts while the evidence is fresh and witnesses are available.
- Shape the narrative before it solidifies against you.
- Explore opportunities for negotiation or resolution before trial.
The sooner you involve Texas Defense Firm, the stronger your defense will be. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help.
Contact a Dallas Federal Crimes Lawyer at Texas Defense Firm Today
When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line in Dallas, Texas, you cannot afford hesitation. Federal prosecutors dedicate immense resources to securing convictions. With 200+ years of combined experience, our Dallas federal crimes lawyers at Texas Defense Firm are ready to fight for you.
If you’re under investigation, facing indictment, or preparing for trial, we’ll provide the advocacy you deserve.