Richardson Federal Crimes Defense Attorneys
Lawyers for Criminal Charges Prosecuted in Federal Courts in Richardson, Texas
When you learn that federal agents are investigating you or that you are being charged with a federal crime, your life may be completely turned upside down. Federal criminal charges carry some of the harshest penalties in the American legal system. In many cases, convictions will lead to mandatory minimum prison sentences that a judge cannot reduce. People who are facing federal charges will need to understand their options for defense, and they can do so with the help of an attorney who has experience handling federal cases.
At Texas Defense Firm, our criminal defense lawyers know how federal prosecutors build their cases and where those cases tend to be weakest. Our team has more than 200 years of combined experience, and with our detailed knowledge of federal statutes and sentencing rules, we can provide the representation needed to resolve these cases successfully.
How Federal Cases Differ From State Criminal Charges
The federal court system operates under different rules than state courts, and those differences can change the outcome of a case. Issues that may affect federal cases include:
- Who Investigates: Federal cases may be built on investigations by agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, or the Department of Homeland Security. These agencies may spend months or years gathering evidence through wiretaps, search warrants, financial records, and cooperating witnesses.
- How Charges Are Filed: Federal felony charges will usually be filed after a grand jury indictment. Prosecutors will present evidence to a grand jury, and a defendant usually will not be involved in these proceedings.
- How Sentences Are Calculated: After a conviction in federal court, a judge will determine a sentencing range based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines may evaluate a wide variety of factors, and sentences may increase based on a person's circumstances and the facts involved in a case.
- Time Actually Served: Parole is usually not an option for people who are convicted of federal crimes. Most people will be required to serve the large majority of their sentence.
Types of Federal Criminal Charges
Federal Drug Crimes
Drug cases make up a large share of federal prosecutions. Federal drug charges may involve accusations of manufacturing or distributing controlled substances. The transportation of drugs across state lines or accusations of bringing drugs into the country from elsewhere can also lead to federal charges. The penalties a person may face will usually depend on the type of drugs and their quantities. For example, an offense involving 400 grams or more of fentanyl may carry a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence.
Federal Sex Crimes
Federal sex offense charges may arise after online investigations. A person may be accused of possessing, receiving, or distributing child pornography, or federal charges may involve sex trafficking. These cases may involve complex digital evidence, and our lawyers can determine how devices were searched and how files were attributed to a particular person.
Federal White Collar Crimes
Financial crimes are aggressively prosecuted in federal courts. People may face federal white collar crime charges such as mail fraud, wire fraud, health care fraud, or money laundering. Federal fraud charges can lead to harsh penalties. For instance, a business owner who is accused of overstating their revenue on a loan application could face a bank fraud charge carrying up to 30 years in prison.
Federal Weapons Crimes
Federal firearm laws may apply in many situations people may not expect. It is illegal for a person who has been convicted of a felony or an offense with a possible sentence of more than one year in prison to possess a firearm. Allegations of using or carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence can also lead to federal weapons charges.
Federal Conspiracy Charges
Conspiracy is one of the most common charges in federal court. Federal conspiracy charges may be based on allegations that two or more people agreed to commit a federal crime. Drug conspiracy charges can lead to the same penalties as the underlying drug crime. Someone who allegedly played a small role in an offense, such as being present during a meeting where plans to distribute drugs were discussed, could face charges based on the full quantity of drugs involved in the entire operation.
Contact Our Richardson, TX Federal Crimes Lawyers
Because federal charges carry serious consequences, legal representation is crucial. The earlier a person who is facing federal charges secures representation from a lawyer, the more options they will have to defend against a conviction.
If you have learned that you are under investigation for a federal crime, or if you have been arrested for a federal offense involving drug crimes, sex crimes, white collar crimes, weapons charges, or another type of crime, Texas Defense Firm can provide the representation you need. We will make sure you understand your legal options, and we will fight to resolve your case and avoid a conviction. Contact our Richardson, Texas federal criminal defense attorneys at 972-369-0577 to schedule a free consultation.
