If you learn that you are the target of a federal criminal investigation, you should contact a lawyer immediately. The time to negotiate with federal prosecutors is before charges are filed. Once you are indicted, it can be very difficult to persuade the federal government to dismiss those charges or to reduce them to a lesser charge. Convictions in most federal crimes involve serving lengthy jail time.
If you are arrested before you can contact an attorney, it is important to seek the help of an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Federal criminal charges carry significant penalties, usually leading to incarceration, and the help of a federal criminal defense attorney can potentially save you or your loved ones years in prison. Federal criminal law and the federal sentencing guidelines are complicated and require an attorney who is well-versed in the intricacies of federal criminal defense to provide the very best defense.
At the Breeding Carter, office in Knoxville, we provide a proactive defense for people who are charged with federal crimes such as:
- Major drug charges such as trafficking and manufacturing
- Conspiracy charges
- Possession of a weapon by a convicted felon
- Possession of child pornography
- Embezzlement and other white collar crimes
- Wire and internet fraud and other electronic crimes
- Crimes on federal lands and park property
Our lawyers are experienced in the trial and appellate courts. We understand how federal prosecutors investigate and charge criminal defendants in federal court. Our experienced attorneys offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
The Stakes Are Higher In Federal Court
The potential consequences you face in federal court are higher than you would face in state court for a similar offense. Many federal crimes have mandatory minimum sentences if you are convicted. In some cases, you could face several years in prison for a crime that would result in probation in a state court. Parole has been abolished in federal courts and prison sentences are served at 85 percent.
The federal government usually does not take on cases that are minor or where the evidence is weak. As a rule, the federal government will only prosecute if it thinks it can obtain a conviction with a substantial prison sentence. As your lawyer, our goal is to persuade prosecutors not to charge you with a crime if possible, or to negotiate an outcome that would not result in lengthy incarceration. We also strive to keep you from being prosecuted in both federal and state court, which the government may elect to do without a strong lawyer on your side.
If you are contacted by a federal agent, you should not say anything before you talk to a defense attorney. Many people receive additional jail time, in addition to the time served on the original charge, because they lied to federal investigators.
For More Information About Federal Criminal Charges
Let our experienced federal criminal defense attorneys protect your rights. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call our Knoxville office at 865-670-8535 or fill out our contact form.