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Austin Federal Criminal Lawyers

March 21, 2024 Uncategorized

Dealing with Federal Criminal Charges in Austin? You Need an Experienced Lawyer on Your Side

Let’s be real – facing federal criminal charges is scary. The federal justice system is complicated, the rules are different than state courts, and if you’re convicted, you could be looking at some very serious penalties.I’m not going to sugarcoat it – the deck is stacked against defendants in federal cases. The government has tons of resources and some harsh mandatory minimum sentences they can pursue. So if you’re being charged with a federal crime in Austin, having a knowledgeable federal criminal defense lawyer on your team is crucial.I want to walk you through some of the key things you need to know:

The Most Common Federal Crimes Prosecuted in Austin

There are a ton of federal laws on the books, so all kinds of charges get brought in federal court here. Some of the most common include:

  • Drug crimes – Trafficking, distributing, making, or just possessing controlled substances like cocaine, meth, prescription meds, or marijuana. The feds prosecute a lot of drug cases.
  • White collar stuff – Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, identity theft. If it involves deceit and money, the feds might be interested.
  • Firearms charges – Possessing guns illegally, using them in crimes, selling without a license.
  • Sex crimes – Child pornography, human trafficking. Really serious stuff.
  • Cybercrimes – Hacking, computer fraud, threats online. Anything on the internet can get the feds involved.
  • Public corruption – Bribery, kickbacks, extortion. The feds keep officials in line.

And plenty more – racketeering, kidnapping, robbery, counterfeiting, healthcare fraud, immigration issues. Even minor stuff can trigger federal charges.

The Penalties are Harsh – We’re Talking Years in Prison

The sentences for federal convictions make these cases high stakes:

  • Trafficking a sizable amount of drugs means at least a decade behind bars.
  • Child pornography can lead to 10 years per image.
  • Major wire fraud over $1 million may bring up to 30 years.
  • Illegal gun possession by felons also means possibly 10 years.

Plus huge fines up to $250,000 per count. When millions are involved in financial crimes, it can get expensive.

The Federal System Has Unique Rules and Procedures

There are some key differences between federal court and Texas state courts:

  • Federal drug cases go through the U.S. District Court here in Austin.
  • Grand juries decide on indictments for felonies.
  • Federal prosecutors have broad powers to subpoena, investigate, and search.
  • Sentences get decided based on guidelines that look at criminal history and other factors.
  • Appeals go to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

It’s a complex system, so having a lawyer who gets the ins and outs is a must.

How a Good Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Fights for You

An experienced federal defense attorney can be your best weapon against these charges. Here’s how they can help:

  • Dig into the facts themselves and pick apart the prosecution’s case.
  • File motions to get evidence tossed or charges dismissed if something’s fishy.
  • Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s office to reduce or drop charges.
  • Develop background evidence to argue for leniency at sentencing.
  • Object to sentencing guidelines enhancements.
  • Raise issues for appeals down the road.
  • Look into pretrial diversion programs as an alternative to prosecution.
  • Effectively use expert witnesses and trial strategies if it goes to court.

The right lawyer knows all the tools of the trade to get you the best possible result.

Why You Absolutely Need a Federal Criminal Lawyer in Austin

I don’t want to scare you, but here’s why having a lawyer is so important:

  • Federal prosecutors are aggressive and go for long sentences. You need someone just as aggressive on your side.
  • The complex laws require a lawyer fluent in federal statutes, cases, and procedures.
  • An experienced negotiator can get charges reduced or dismissed through plea deals.
  • You need killer trial skills if your case goes before a judge or jury.
  • The rigid sentencing guidelines and minimums make expert sentencing advocacy vital.
  • Handling appeals and post-conviction petitions demands great writing and research skills.

The risks are high without a strong advocate who knows the federal system inside and out.

Finding the Best Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in Austin

Picking the right lawyer is super important, so take your time and shop around. Here are some tips:

  • Find someone with a track record handling your specific charges. Experience matters.
  • Ask if they’ve gotten federal cases dismissed or reduced before trial.
  • Look for Board Certified Criminal Law specialists with great credentials.
  • Choose someone respected by prosecutors and judges. Those connections help.
  • Make sure they’ve tried a ton of federal criminal jury trials. Courtroom skills are key.
  • Find out if they have appeal experience. That could come in handy later.
  • Meet in person – you want a lawyer you connect with and can trust completely.

Do your research to get the best federal criminal defense lawyer fighting for you!

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Todd Spodek

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RALPH P. FRANCHO, JR

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JEREMY FEIGENBAUM

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ELIZABETH GARVEY

Associate

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CLAIRE BANKS

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RAJESH BARUA

Of-Counsel

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CHAD LEWIN

Of-Counsel

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