Federal Criminal Defense

  • From Arrest to Appeal: A Family’s Guide to Federal Criminal Cases in Forney, TX

    A federal prosecution involves numerous steps, ranging from arrest to sentencing and to potential appellate proceedings. Family members who have a loved one arrested on federal charges in Forney may wonder what will happen in their criminal case. After a loved one gets arrested for a criminal offense under federal law, your family deserves to…

  • What Questions Should Families Ask a Federal Defense Lawyer in Texas?

    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….

  • The Heavy Hand of Justice: Unpacking Federal Prosecutorial Overreach

    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…

  • Plea Deals in Federal Cases: When Do Prosecutors Offer Them?

    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…

  • Can Someone Be Charged in Federal Court Without Being Arrested?

    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…

  • Bail and Pretrial Release in Federal Cases: A Guide for Families

    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…

  • Why Federal Criminal Cases Are Different—and What That Means for Your Family

    Individuals accused of violating federal criminal offenses may face charges filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and a prosecution in federal court. However, federal criminal prosecution can vary significantly from a state criminal case. The scope of a federal criminal investigation and the resources that federal prosecutors can bring to bear on a case can…

  • How Early Legal Intervention Can Change the Outcome of a Federal Criminal Case

    A federal criminal case involves several stages, including an initial investigation, grand jury proceedings, and formal prosecution. When a person becomes involved in a federal case, early legal intervention can maximize their ability to protect their rights, reputation, and interests. Understanding what happens in the early stages of a federal criminal case can highlight the…

  • Signs a Loved One Needs a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer – Not a State Defense Attorney

    After a family member is arrested, you may want to help by securing legal representation. However, when a loved one faces criminal prosecution, they may need a federal criminal defense attorney rather than a state criminal defense attorney. Understanding when a loved one needs a defense attorney knowledgeable in federal criminal law can help your…