Jun 4, 2025

Acquittals in Federal Criminal Case

Federal Criminal Cases: Outcomes and Statistics

Federal criminal cases are prosecuted by the United States government and often involve serious offenses such as drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, and organized crime. Understanding the outcomes of these cases can provide insight into the federal justice system.

Case Outcomes in Federal Court

Most federal criminal cases do not go to trial. Instead, the vast majority are resolved through plea agreements, where the defendant pleads guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence or lesser charges. According to the United States Sentencing Commission, over 90% of federal criminal cases are resolved by guilty pleas.

Do federal cases ever get dismissed?

Some federal cases are dismissed before trial, either because the prosecution decides not to pursue the case, evidence is insufficient, or procedural errors occur. However, dismissals are relatively rare compared to guilty pleas and convictions.

How many federal cases end in acquittal?

Of the small percentage of federal cases that do go to trial, acquittals are uncommon. Statistics show that only about 2% of federal criminal defendants are acquitted at trial. Most defendants who go to trial are found guilty.

Appeals and Double Jeopardy

After a verdict is reached, defendants may have the right to appeal their conviction or sentence. However, the principle of double jeopardy generally prevents a person from being tried again for the same offense after an acquittal.

Can you be tried again after being acquitted?

Once a defendant is acquitted in federal court, they cannot be tried again for the same crime by the federal government due to the constitutional protection against double jeopardy. However, in rare circumstances, separate state or federal charges may apply if the conduct violates different laws.

Conviction Rates

The conviction rate in federal criminal cases is extremely high. This is largely due to the prevalence of plea bargains and the resources available to federal prosecutors. Defendants who go to trial face long odds, as conviction rates at trial are also high.

Do federal cases usually win?

Federal prosecutors are successful in the vast majority of cases. Whether through plea agreements or trial verdicts, the government secures convictions in over 90% of federal criminal cases.

Acquittals in Federal Criminal Case