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Criminal Defense & Traffic

Federal Criminal Defense

Target letter, grand jury subpoena or federal indictment? What a federal criminal defense lawyer does, sentencing guidelines and how to find one.

Federal cases are investigated for months before charges, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with FBI, DEA, IRS or HSI agents, and sentenced under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines — often with mandatory minimums. Over 90% end in pleas, so early, experienced counsel changes outcomes more than at any other stage.

What a federal criminal defense lawyer does

  • Responds to target letters, subpoenas and agent interviews
  • Negotiates pre-indictment resolutions or cooperation when appropriate
  • Litigates suppression, discovery and Guidelines calculations
  • Handles detention hearings, trial and appeal in U.S. District Court

When you need a federal criminal defense lawyer

  • Federal agents contacted you, your business or your employees
  • You received a grand jury subpoena or target letter
  • Charges involve wire or mail fraud, drugs across state lines, firearms, immigration or tax
  • You were arrested on a federal complaint

Questions to ask before you hire a federal criminal defense lawyer

  1. How many federal cases have you tried or resolved in this district?
  2. What is my Guidelines exposure under the likely charges?
  3. Is early cooperation in my interest, and what are the risks?
  4. Who on your team handles the discovery volume in a case like mine?

Common questions

What is a target letter?

A letter from a U.S. Attorney’s Office telling you that you are the target of a grand jury investigation. It usually invites you to testify or to meet with prosecutors. Do not respond without a lawyer.

Find a federal criminal defense lawyer near you

Choose your state to see listed firms and the official bar directory for verifying any lawyer’s license.