Federal Crime Defense Lawyer in Lubbock, TX

Defending Against Federal Crimes in Both State & Federal Courts

If you or a loved one have been arrested and charged with a federal crime in Lubbock and surrounding counties, you may have noticed by now that the federal system works a little differently from the state judicial system. It is invaluable that you entrust your case to an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer who understands the intricate processes of federal examination and is not intimidated to go up against any prosecution on your behalf.

What is a Federal Crime?

A federal crime is an offense that violates U.S. federal law and is prosecuted by the federal government rather than a state or local authority. These crimes typically involve interstate activities, national security, federal property, or violations of federal statutes such as drug trafficking, fraud, and terrorism. Federal crimes are investigated by agencies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF, and prosecuted in federal courts, which often impose stricter penalties than state courts.

Types of Federal Crimes

There are several ways a crime can be charged as a federal crime instead of a state crime. For one, if the offender specifically violates a federal law or the constitution, it can be charged through the federal courts. Additionally, there are specific crimes that are automatically federal offenses such as bank robbery.

Furthermore, certain state charges, when extreme or “big” enough, can be handled through the federal system. For example, a drug distribution charge can become federal if there is a high enough quantity of drugs, or if the offender is suspected to be high up in a drug trafficking organization.

What Are the Differences Between Federal Crime & State Crime?

The biggest difference between federal and state criminal procedures is the investigation. In a federal investigation, enforcement officers may wait months or even years before arresting the suspect, choosing to use that time to investigate. Federal agents may come to your door and ask for a seemingly unofficial and benign interview when in reality they want to use the information you give them unsuspectingly as a key part of their investigation. It is very important that you do not speak with any federal investigators without a Lubbock federal criminal defense attorney present to protect you from saying something incriminating accidentally.

How do Federal Trials Work?

Federal trials follow a strict legal process starting with an investigation, followed by arrest, indictment by a grand jury, arraignment, pre-trial motions, and eventually, trial. Unlike state trials, federal trials often involve extensive discovery and legal motions due to the complexity of federal laws. If convicted, sentencing is determined by federal sentencing guidelines, and the convicted person can appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals and, in rare cases, to the Supreme Court.

What are the Penalties for Federal Crimes?

Penalties for federal crimes vary but often include significant prison time, heavy fines, probation, asset forfeiture, and other severe consequences. Federal sentencing guidelines often impose mandatory minimum sentences, especially for drug offenses and violent crimes. Unlike state sentences, federal sentences typically do not allow parole, meaning convicted individuals must serve a substantial portion of their sentence before becoming eligible for early release.