After a loved one’s arrest on federal charges, family members may wonder how they can help their loved one face criminal prosecution. However, families can help their loved ones secure the legal representation they need to defend themselves against federal charges. For example, family members can meet with potential counsel during their loved one’s detention….
In a healthy democracy, the power of federal prosecutors is balanced by strict legal standards and judicial oversight. However, recent developments—from new “abnormal” charging trackers to the revival of flawed border cases—suggest a shift toward the creative expansion of criminal statutes to fit administrative agendas. Tracking the “Abnormal”: The Justice Department’s New Direction One of…
A federal criminal case can end with a dismissal of the charges, a plea deal between the government and the defendant, or a trial resulting in a verdict and judgment. Although many federal prosecutions end in a plea deal, U.S. Attorney’s Offices do not always offer deals to defendants. When you face prosecution for a…
Most people imagine that a criminal case, including those in the federal criminal justice system, begins when law enforcement officials put a suspect in handcuffs and bring them in for booking. But can the government bring federal charges against a defendant without first arresting them? In federal court, a criminal case does not always have…
At the beginning of a federal criminal case, the judge will make several important decisions, including whether to grant a defendant pretrial release. Once a federal indictment comes down from a grand jury, a criminal defendant will have to make an initial appearance in court for a federal judge to determine whether to grant pretrial…
The Fifth District Court of Appeals at Dallas recently delivered a critical ruling in Ernest Latcher v. Caroline D. Edwards, a case that underscores the high burden of proof required for animal attack victims in Texas. This decision serves as a vital reminder that winning a trial is only half the battle; sustaining that judgment…
When a person plans to commit a federal crime together with one or more people, federal prosecutors may charge that person with criminal conspiracy as a separate offense. Many federal criminal cases involve charges of “conspiracy” in addition to charges related to the completed or attempted criminal offense. But how do conspiracy charges make federal…
Many federal criminal cases end in a plea deal between a defendant and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Plea bargains can significantly affect sentencing in federal criminal cases. As a result, understanding how federal plea bargains work can help you assess your legal options in a prosecution in Texas. What Is a Federal Plea Bargain? In…
Finding out that a loved one has been arrested on a Texas Blue Warrant is a nightmare scenario. One minute they are home, working toward a fresh start; the next, they are behind bars in a county jail with no bond, and you are left wondering if they are headed straight back to prison. At…
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