(Last Updated On: March 12, 2023)The mere thought of a federal arrest warrant being issued in your name can send shivers down your spine. It is the culmination of a long, arduous process that began with an investigation by the United States Attorney’s Office. The government has presented enough evidence to a Grand Jury or a Federal judge to establish probable cause that you committed at least one Federal crime. But, just because a warrant has been issued, it does not mean that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
However, the reality is that Federal prosecutors are determined to see you in a courtroom and often seek to keep you in custody with a request for significant bail. In such a dire situation, the first step you or your family should take is to seek the counsel of a competent and knowledgeable attorney. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, advocate for reasonable bail, assist you in the bond process, and do their best to arrange for your release.
It’s important to remember that federal arrests are not uncommon. In 2012, over 170,000 people were arrested by law enforcement agencies around the country. The causes of a federal arrest can vary, but they usually stem from a lengthy investigation that has been conducted by agents who have conducted countless hours of surveillance and reviewed numerous documents to gather evidence against the target of the investigation.
Before the arrest, agents executing the arrest will have usually applied for and obtained an arrest warrant in a federal district court. The arrest warrant will name the person to be arrested, specify a place and time for the arrest, and list the crimes that the person is being arrested for. It’s important to take a federal arrest seriously as it means that the government has already gathered substantial evidence and is now prepared to formally prosecute you.
One common question that clients ask is whether police serve warrants on weekends. The answer is yes, they do. During a federal arrest, agents responsible for executing the arrest will visit the target at their place of residence or workplace and announce themselves. They will explain what is happening, read the arrestee their Miranda rights, and take them to the nearest federal detention center. The arrestee will be booked and scheduled for an initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge.
In conclusion, a federal arrest warrant is a serious matter that requires immediate attention. The best course of action is to seek the counsel of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights. Remember, federal arrests are not uncommon and the government has gathered substantial evidence before moving forward with prosecution. It is important to take a federal arrest seriously and do everything in your power to protect yourself and your rights.
Federal Arrests and Arrest Warrants
If you find yourself facing the unfortunate reality of being arrested, it is crucial that you remain calm and adhere to the following key principles in order to protect your rights and give yourself the best chance at a favorable outcome.
First and foremost, it is of the utmost importance that you do not resist or attempt to evade arrest. The power and resources of the federal government are formidable, and attempting to resist arrest will likely prove futile and could even lead to additional criminal charges. Instead, comply with the arresting officers and remain cooperative.
Secondly, it is essential that you exercise your right to remain silent and avoid making any statements beyond providing your basic identifying information. The arresting officer is required by law to inform you of your Miranda rights, which include a warning that anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. It is imperative that you understand the gravity of this warning and refrain from speaking about the details of your case until you have the guidance and representation of an attorney.
Speaking of which, your third and final step after being arrested should be to immediately request the assistance of an attorney. Whether you choose to retain a private attorney or have one appointed by the court, it is vital that you have legal representation by your side as soon as possible to guide you through the complex and intimidating process that follows an arrest.
After the arrest, there will be a chance for the arrested person to ask for pretrial release and bail. Once you have an attorney, they will work on the pretrial phase of your case. This includes plea bargaining, discovery review, pretrial motions, and trial preparation. It is essential to have a legal counsel to guide you through this process and help you make informed decisions about your case. Remember, you have the right to an attorney, so exercise it to the fullest extent possible.
In conclusion, being arrested can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, but by following these three key principles – comply, remain silent and request an attorney – you can take control of the situation and give yourself the best chance at a favorable outcome. Remember, you are not alone in this process, and with the right legal representation by your side, you can navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system and fight for your rights.
Lawyers For Federal Warrants
When federal law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, or ATF, have gathered compelling evidence of your involvement in a crime of national interest, they present their findings to a federal judge or magistrate. If the judge or magistrate confirms the evidence is strong enough to move forward with the case, they will issue a federal arrest warrant, which is typically executed by the U.S. Marshal.
A federal arrest warrant is a legal document that must include specific information, such as the defendant’s name or description if their identity is unknown, a description of the federal criminal charges they are facing, a command for the defendant to be arrested and brought before a judge or magistrate without delay, and a signature from the presiding judge.
In most cases, the first indication of a federal warrant being issued against you will be when a federal law enforcement official arrests you. However, you may become aware of the warrant before your arrest if a co-defendant is arrested or federal authorities visit your home while you are not there.
If you learn of a federal warrant being issued against you before your arrest, it is critical to take immediate action by contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney who has handled federal cases similar to yours. Your lawyer can work with the U.S. Marshal’s office to arrange a surrender, schedule a prompt initial appearance, and even argue for your release on bail at a detention hearing.