How Federal Criminal Cases Work
How Federal Criminal Cases Work
It is important to have a skilled federal defense attorney on your side when you are facing federal charges. This is because federal agents and prosecuting attorneys will strive to prove your guilt and penalize you for your alleged actions. The punishments for a federal conviction are severe and oftentimes include long prison sentences, making it difficult to move on with your life afterwards. The best way to avoid conviction and possible jail time is to work with a qualified law firm.
Get in touch with us and a member of our brilliant federal team will give you a free initial case consultation and advise you of a clever course of action in your distinct case, putting you on track to receive the best available result. Visit our firm today or contact us via phone.
Steps in a Federal Criminal Case
We understand that every case is unique. While this is true, remember that there are a few steps that are common in most federal criminal cases. The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure govern the process, which includes the following stages:
- Investigation
Federal agencies, such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, USSS, or DHS, are often involved in gathering evidences in federal criminal cases. In this stage of your criminal case, the prosecutor may coordinate with one or several federal agencies to gather direct evidence and circumstantial information. Make sure to hire a knowledgeable attorney before you deal with or fight back against these investigating agents.
- Charging
This stage allows the prosecutor to review the evidence gathered by federal agencies and decide whether to present your criminal case to a grand jury.
- Initial Hearing/Arraignment
The initial hearing with a judge will occur right after an arrest and charge. You will likely go into a plea at this stage.
- Discovery
During this stage, the prosecutor and defense attorney review the details of the case and exchange required records to prepare for trial.
- Plea Bargaining
The defendant may be offered a plea deal to avoid trial if the government has a strong case. To receive a deal, the accused must agree to plead guilty or no contest in an open court before the judge.
- Preliminary Hearing
The prosecutor must demonstrate that there is enough evidence to warrant a trial if the defendant pleads not guilty. The defendant may choose to waive this step.
- Pre-Trial Motions
The defense attorney or prosecutor may make pre-trial motions. These motions may include a motion to suppress, motion to dismiss, or motion for change of venue. The pre-trial motions often affect the trial, defendants, courtroom, testimony, or evidence.
- Trial
Once the preparation is complete, the prosecutor presents evidence in an attempt to demonstrate the defendant’s guilt to the jury. Trials include opening statements, presentment of cases, witness examination, objections, and closing arguments.
- Post-Trial Motions
If convicted, the defendant may file a post-trial motion for a new trial, a motion for judgment of acquittal, or a motion to vacate, set aside, or correct a sentence.
- Sentencing
The defendant will likely be sentenced several months after the trial. The Congress sets minimum and maximum punishments, which guide the judge’s decision, along with case-specific information.
- Appeal
The defendant may appeal the verdict if he/she believes that he/she was wrongfully convicted.
Facing federal criminal charges may make you feel confused, overwhelmed, or even hopeless. Having a skilled defense lawyer on your side can help combat anxiety and make it easier to face the case. This is because you know you are protected throughout the stages of your case. With our top-tier defense team, you can be at ease and assured knowing that you are working with one of the top defense firms. We have years of extensive experience in defending the wrongfully accused and are ready to put our knowledge to work in your case.
Our licensed and experienced federal defense attorneys are dedicated to defending your welfare and will do everything we can to set you up for success in your criminal case. We represent clients involved in all kinds of cases, such as drug crime cases, violent crime cases, sex crime cases, and more. If you are facing federal charges or believe you are being investigated, reach out to us promptly to obtain the services of a skilled lawyer who will start working to protect you.
Contact Us for Federal Criminal Defense
Let our legal team represent you! The sooner you obtain our services, the better your chances of achieving beneficial result. Don’t wait any longer; take action today. Let us review the details of your situation and help you build a strategic approach towards your federal criminal case. You may call our toll free number or send us a message online to get started.