Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys in Collin County

We represent clients in cases involving numerous federal crimes, including: 

What Are the Penalties for Being Convicted of a Federal Crime?

Federal crimes are treated with a high degree of seriousness under U.S. law, and the penalties for being convicted of such offenses can be severe. The exact consequences depend largely on the nature of the crime committed, but they often include hefty fines, probation, or imprisonment. In some cases, the federal sentencing guidelines prescribe mandatory minimum sentences, which judges are obligated to impose unless certain exceptions apply. 

In addition to these immediate penalties, a federal crime conviction can have long-lasting impacts. Convicted individuals may face social stigma and have difficulty securing employment or housing due to their criminal record. Understanding the potential consequences of a federal crime conviction is crucial for individuals navigating the criminal justice system. 

Common Legal Defenses to Federal Charges

Legal defenses to federal charges vary depending on the nature of the offense, the evidence at hand, and the specific circumstances of the case. It's crucial to note that every case is unique, and the appropriateness of a defense strategy depends on the specific details of the situation. 

Here are some common legal defenses that may be employed in federal cases:

• Insufficient Evidence: A defense attorney may argue that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This could involve challenging the credibility or reliability of the evidence presented by the prosecution.
• Fourth Amendment Violations: Defenses based on Fourth Amendment violations involve challenging the legality of searches and seizures. If evidence was obtained through an unlawful search or seizure, it may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Fifth Amendment Protections: The Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination. A defendant may choose not to testify during the trial, and their silence cannot be used against them. Additionally, the Miranda rights ensure that statements made during custodial interrogation are voluntary.
• Sixth Amendment Rights: The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to a fair trial, including the right to legal representation. Ineffective assistance of counsel may be raised as a defense if the defense attorney's performance falls below the standard of reasonable competence.
• Alibi Defense: An alibi defense involves presenting evidence that the accused was not present at the scene of the crime when it occurred. This can include witness testimony, surveillance footage, or other evidence that supports the claim of being elsewhere at the time of the alleged offense.
• Mistaken Identity: A defense based on mistaken identity argues that the prosecution has misidentified the defendant as the perpetrator of the crime. This defense may involve presenting evidence of an alibi or highlighting inconsistencies in eyewitness testimony.
• Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces an individual to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. To use entrapment as a defense, the defendant must show that they were not predisposed to commit the offense and that the government's actions led to the criminal conduct.
• Duress or Coercion: A defense of duress or coercion asserts that the defendant engaged in criminal conduct due to a reasonable fear for their life or the life of others. The defendant may claim that they were compelled to commit the offense under threat or pressure.
• Statute of Limitations: If the prosecution files charges beyond the applicable statute of limitations, the defense may argue that the case should be dismissed. Statutes of limitations vary depending on the nature of the offense.
• Illegal Arrest or Detention: If law enforcement violated the defendant's rights during the arrest or detention process, such as conducting an arrest without probable cause, the defense may challenge the legality of the arrest.