If you are being investigated or have been charged with a federal crime in Texas, the stakes are high. A conviction could mean time in federal prison, steep fines, and long-term consequences for your freedom and reputation. Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers today at (682) 777-3336 to begin building a strong defense.
Our team has over 60 years of combined experience handling complex investigations and trials. We know what it takes to build a strong defense and push back against the power of the federal government. Learn more by reaching out to our experienced Texas federal crimes lawyers for help.
Why Choose Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to Help With My Federal Charges in Texas?
Not every lawyer is ready to take on the federal government. Federal prosecutors have more time, resources, and experience than most. If your defense lawyer is not prepared for that level of pressure, your future could be at risk.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we focus on high-level defense strategy and real results. Our Texas criminal defense lawyers include former prosecutors and experienced trial lawyers who know the system from the inside. We have built a strong reputation by protecting our clients and achieving results when it matters most.
When federal charges threaten your future, experience and preparation make the difference. Our firm has what it takes to fight for you. Contact our federal crimes lawyers in Texas today to schedule an initial consultation.
What Makes a Crime a Federal Offense?
Not all crimes are handled by state or local prosecutors. Some offenses fall under federal law, which means they are investigated by federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF and prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal court.
A crime can become a federal offense for several reasons:
- It violates federal law directly: Examples include drug trafficking, immigration crimes, or wire fraud.
- It crosses state lines: If illegal activity moves from one state to another, such as transporting drugs or weapons, it may fall under federal jurisdiction.
- It involves federal property or federal officials: Crimes committed on military bases, in federal buildings, or against government employees may be handled at the federal level.
- It involves large-scale or organized activity: The federal government often steps in to prosecute white-collar crimes, conspiracies, and complex criminal enterprises.
Federal cases often carry more serious penalties than similar state offenses. These cases are also investigated longer and more thoroughly before charges are ever filed. That is why many people facing federal charges are caught off guard and feel overwhelmed when the case finally begins.
Types of Federal Crimes We Handle in Texas
With 60 years of combined experience, our attorneys are ready to take on a wide range of federal charges. Federal investigations are often complex and involve multiple agencies. You need a defense team that knows how to challenge the prosecution at every stage.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we defend clients against a wide variety of charges, including:
Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy
Federal drug crimes often involve allegations of distribution, manufacturing, or conspiracy across multiple states. These cases usually involve mandatory minimums and heavy penalties. Our firm will challenge search warrants, evidence collection, and the credibility of informants.
White-Collar Crimes
We represent clients facing charges of wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, money laundering, and other white collar crimes. These cases often involve years of investigation and thousands of documents. Our legal team is skilled at reviewing financial records and will work hard to expose flaws in the government’s case.
Federal Weapons Offenses
You can face federal gun charges for possessing a firearm as a felon, transporting weapons across state lines, or using a gun in connection with a drug crime. These charges are taken seriously and can add years to your sentence if convicted.
Public Corruption and Bribery
Public officials and government employees may be charged under federal law for accepting or offering bribes, engaging in kickback schemes, or misusing government funds. These cases require a focused legal strategy to protect your rights and reputation.
Child Exploitation and Internet Crimes
The federal government investigates cases involving child pornography, enticement of a minor, and other internet-based offenses. These cases are aggressively prosecuted and can result in long prison sentences. We will work to suppress illegal searches and protect your rights at every stage.
Immigration Offenses
Federal prosecutors handle crimes such as illegal reentry after deportation, immigration fraud, and smuggling. These charges can have harsh immigration consequences. Our team can help you understand your legal options and fight for the best possible outcome.
What Happens in a Federal Criminal Case?
Federal cases usually begin with an investigation by one or more agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF. These investigations often last for months or even years before charges are filed.
Once an arrest is made or an indictment is handed down, the case proceeds through several formal steps:
- Initial appearance and arraignment: You’ll appear before a federal judge, hear the charges, and enter a plea.
- Detention hearing: The court will decide whether you should be held in custody or released while awaiting trial.
- Discovery and pretrial motions: Your defense attorney will request evidence, challenge its legality, and file motions to exclude certain testimony or documents.
- Plea negotiations or trial: Many federal cases are resolved through plea deals, but if needed, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be based on the federal sentencing guidelines and the specific facts of your case.
Federal prosecutors have significant resources and experience. You need a defense team that’s equally prepared and aggressive.
Penalties for Federal Convictions
Federal penalties are usually much more severe than those handed down in state court. Sentencing is largely based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account the nature of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history.
Some examples of common penalties in federal court include:
- Lengthy prison terms: Many offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences, especially for drug trafficking or firearm-related crimes.
- Large fines: Financial penalties can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Asset forfeiture: The government may seize property it believes is connected to criminal activity.
- Supervised release: After serving your sentence, you may be required to report to a probation officer and follow strict conditions.
A conviction can also lead to long-term collateral consequences. You may lose your right to vote or own firearms, and you might face immigration problems, loss of employment, or damage to your personal reputation.
The best way to avoid these outcomes is to work with a seasoned criminal defense attorney who knows the federal system inside and out.
What Defenses Can Be Raised Against Federal Charges?
Every federal case is different, but there are several legal strategies that may be used to challenge the government’s case. The right defense will depend on the charges, the available evidence, and how the investigation was handled.
Some of the most common defenses in federal criminal cases include:
- Illegal search or seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an unlawful search, key evidence may be suppressed and excluded from trial.
- Lack of intent: Many federal crimes require that the defendant acted knowingly or willfully. If we can show you didn’t intend to break the law, the charges may not hold up.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak or circumstantial, we’ll highlight those issues at trial.
- Entrapment: If you were coerced or persuaded into committing a crime by federal agents or informants, you may have a valid entrapment defense.
- Mistaken identity: In some cases, people are wrongly accused because they resemble someone else or were in the wrong place at the wrong time.
- Violation of constitutional rights: This includes coerced confessions, failure to read Miranda rights, or denial of access to counsel during questioning.
We may also raise procedural defenses, such as issues with how the indictment was filed, how evidence was preserved, or how witnesses were handled. Our goal is to build a defense strategy that challenges every part of the government’s case while protecting your rights from day one.
Contact Our Texas Federal Crimes Attorneys Today to Schedule a Consultation
Being investigated or charged with a federal offense is one of the most serious legal problems you can face. Your future, freedom, and reputation are on the line. However, remember that you are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, so there is still time to fight back.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers brings over 60 years of combined experience to every case we take. We’ve earned our reputation by fighting hard and delivering results in high-stakes situations. Whether you’re under investigation or already facing charges, we’re ready to help you develop a strong defense strategy.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Texas federal crimes attorney.
