We Take on the Toughest Cases
While most crimes are handled by the state courts, some are prosecuted at the federal level. If you are under investigation by the FBI or another entity of the federal government, it is imperative that you consult with a team of Laredo federal crime lawyers who have a proven track record of case dismissals and charge reductions.
Where Do I Find a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer?
At Gonzalez Druker Law Firm, our Laredo federal criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience representing clients facing serious allegations for federal offenses. When you choose to work with our firm, we can immediately begin building a solid defense strategy on your behalf. Visit our federal criminal lawyer reviews to see why clients choose our Laredo federal defense law firm when they need the best criminal lawyers.
Types of Federal Crimes
There are certain situations where the federal courts will hear a case. This includes when the U.S. is a party in the case, when the allegations cross state or international borders, when the offense is a violation of federal law or the U.S. Constitution, and when cases involve bankruptcy, copyright, patent, and maritime law.
Our lawyers represent clients facing a range of federal criminal charges in Texas, including, but not limited to:
- Drug crimes
- Credit card fraud
- Identity theft
- Computer crimes
- Child pornography
- Weapons offenses
- Financial crimes
- Kidnapping
- Terrorism
- Obstruction of justice
- Human trafficking
- Illegal reentry
- Racketeering
- Mail fraud
- Bank robbery
- Federal hate crimes
Understanding Federal Investigations
The first step in the federal criminal justice process is a federal investigation. During this stage, federal law enforcement agencies examine potential violations of federal law. Their investigation aims to discover if a federal crime has indeed taken place, all the individuals or entities who are responsible, and what evidence exists to support their prosecution. Never attempt to deal directly with federal investigators if you are under investigation or arrested. You have a right to remain silent and consult with an attorney before speaking with criminal investigators. The smartest thing you can do is immediately contact our team of experienced federal crime defense attorneys in Laredo, TX to guide you through the entire process and protect your rights.
There are a variety of federal agencies that can be involved in a federal investigation, including:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Environment Protection Agency (EPA)
When a person is under investigation by one of these agencies, they could face significant challenges in the days ahead. Whether the individual is guilty or not, a federal investigation can wreak havoc on their personal and professional life, and can even damage their reputation in the community.
Further, the U.S. government has a vast array of resources to investigate and prosecute the accused. If they believe they have sufficient evidence to convict someone, they will stop at nothing to prove their guilt and obtain a maximum punishment.
Federal Crimes Mandatory Minimum Sentencing
In the Federal Court system, judges base their sentences on the mandatory minimum sentencing laws established by Congress. These statutes require that judges sentence offenders to a specified minimum prison term and fine amount for a specific crime. There are several crimes with mandatory minimum sentencing requirements, including those involving drugs, guns, child pornography, identity theft, and more.
While mandatory minimums are controversial, they are nonetheless binding. And since the penalties for federal crimes are often quite substantial, including life imprisonment and the death penalty, those charged with a federal crime are at significant risk of receiving a life-altering sentence.
Bonds for Federal Offenses Versus State Criminal Allegations
Bail bonds for Federal criminal offenses work differently than bail bonds for Texas criminal offenses and the bonding process varies depending on the jurisdiction. For example, although some federal jurisdictions allow private bail bond companies to do their bail bonds, in the federal courts of Laredo (Southern District of Texas), all bonds go through pretrial services, a government run agency. Pretrial services will conduct an interview of the accused and make a recommendation to the judge as to the amount of bonds, bond conditions (i.e. conditions of release) and whether a cash deposit on the bond is required. Many times pretrial services may recommend detention.
A detention hearing could be requested where, similar to the factors for Texas state court, the federal court will evaluate:
- The nature and circumstances of the offense charged
- The weight of the evidence against the person
- The history and characteristics of the person
- The nature and seriousness of the danger to any person or the community that would be posed by the person’s release
The experienced Laredo federal defense attorneys of Gonzalez Druker Law Firm can help you increase your chances of getting a bond for the federal charges alleged against you.
Federal Crimes Mandatory Minimum Sentencing
In the Federal Court system, judges base their sentences on the mandatory minimum sentencing laws established by Congress. These statues require that judges sentence offenders to a specified minimum prison term and fine amount for a specific crime. There are several crimes with mandatory minimum sentencing requirements, including those involving drugs, guns, child pornography, identity theft, and more.
While mandatory minimums are controversial, they are nonetheless binding. And since the penalties for federal crimes are often quite substantial, including life imprisonment and the death penalty, those charged with a federal crime are at significant risk of receiving a life-altering sentence.
Let Us Help Fight Your Charges
Although the consequences of a federal case are dire, you do not have to face your charges alone. Gonzalez Druker Law Firm is here to guide you every step of the way. Our Laredo federal crime attorneys have the knowledge, skills, and resources to aggressively advocate on your behalf.