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Alexandria Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

Facing any form of criminal charges is not an easy process. The situation may be even worse if the charges are by a federal agency. This is because federal criminal charges are nothing like state criminal charges. Federal investigation and prosecution are much more complicated than state courts. If the defendant is found guilty of a federal crime, they often face harsher penalties, including large fines, longer incarceration, probation, or even deportation.

In light of these facts, it’s crucial for anyone facing federal criminal charges to enlist the services of a seasoned federal criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria as soon as possible. The federal criminal defense lawyers at John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm have served clients in Alexandria and the surrounding Louisiana area for many years. We have handled multiple different federal crimes, and we know how to fight for your rights. Get in touch with us immediately if you are undergoing a federal criminal investigation or have been arrested by a federal agency.

Understanding Federal Crimes and How They Differ from State Crimes

As mentioned earlier, federal crimes are complex and carry harsher punishments than state ones. But how do you know you’re facing a federal crime? It often depends on the crime you have been accused of. Some of the crimes that are considered federal crimes in Louisiana include the following:

White-Collar Crimes

These are some of the most serious federal crimes and may involve the prosecution conducting weeks, months, or even years of investigation without the knowledge of the target. Examples include:

Fraud, such as tax fraud, bankruptcy fraud, mail fraud, insurance fraud, bank fraud, and credit card fraud
Money laundering
Embezzlement
Identity theft
Ponzi schemes
Corruption
Insider trading
Cybercrime

Our Alexandria white-collar federal defense lawyers have helped dozens of clients facing federal white-collar crimes achieve favorable results after trial.

Drug-Related Crimes

Possession, manufacturing, or distribution of illegal drugs is a serious crime in the US, and convicted offenders are often charged with long imprisonment. Persons suspected even of plotting to conduct a drug offense may be charged with federal criminal charges.

Firearm and Weapons Crimes

The issue surrounding firearms and weapons is a sensitive issue in America, and those found violating laws regarding firearms may face severe charges in a federal court. Suspects may face charges such as:

Carrying concealed weapons or firearms in legal or illegal places without a permit
Possession of an unlawful weapon
Selling, transferring, or distributing of firearm
Use of a gun with the intent to commit a crime

Firearm-related charges are broad. No matter the charges against you, we will work to compile a solid defense to counter the prosecution evidence.

Other Federal Crimes

Some other federal crimes include:

Cases of child pornography
Some types of homicides
Conspiracy
Copyright theft
Terrorist activities

If you have been arrested for a federal crime, or if you’re facing a crime involving more than one state, your trial will be in a federal court. In addition, some government agencies may file charges against you as well, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation or the Drug Enforcement Administration.

3 Stages of Federal Criminal Prosecution

Unlike state crimes, federal crimes take a long route before they can finally be settled. The earlier you discover that you’re under federal investigation or charges, the better your case may turn out. This is because it gives your federal criminal defense attorney an edge and time to thoroughly investigate and prepare for your defense. The three main stages of a federal criminal prosecution are:

1. Investigation

This stage may involve one or several federal agencies and, in some cases, cooperation with state law enforcement agencies. Since federal agencies have vast resources and personnel, this stage is very rigorous and may take as long as it’s needed, sometimes without the knowledge of the target.

2. Grand Jury Subpoena

Following a successful investigation, the federal prosecutors will proceed to obtain an indictment from a grand jury. If the grand jury believes that the person in question has charges against them, the prosecution is given the go-ahead to indict. Otherwise, the jury drops the case.

You should note that respondents are not allowed to have representation in the grand jury room when the grand jury is making the indictment decision. However, this doesn’t mean you are prohibited from having an attorney outside the room for preparation if the case proceeds to the next stage.

3. Trial

After the indictment, the case is set for trial. Before the trial, your federal criminal defense attorney may be able to help and get you a pre-trial determination. Our Alexandria federal criminal defense lawyers in Alexandria have the experience needed to negotiate a favorable pre-trial resolution for different charges. Nevertheless, if the case proceeds to trial, we still have the tenacity to fight for you and work hard to reduce any charges against you in court.

Contact a Seasoned Alexandria Federal Defense Lawyer Today

Facing any federal charges is often overwhelming and may leave you confused about what steps to take next. Federal charges often carry harsher penalties. The best chance you have to avoid these penalties is to have a federal defense lawyer by your side.

At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, we handle every client uniquely and with the confidentiality they deserve. Give us a call at (318) 377-1555 or contact us online to consult with a skilled Alexandria federal criminal defense lawyer. We will work with you every step of the way to make sure your rights are protected.