If you’re facing federal criminal charges in Fort Worth, TX, securing the assistance of a competent attorney is essential. Whether you are under investigation or have been formally charged with a federal crime, contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers today at (682) 777-3336 to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth federal crimes attorney.
The complexities of federal law demand an attorney with specialized knowledge and a proven track record in federal court.
A skilled federal crimes lawyer will navigate the intricacies of the legal system, provide a strategic defense, and advocate fiercely on your behalf.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help If You’re Arrested for a Federal Crime in Fort Worth, TX
If you find yourself arrested for a federal crime in Fort Worth, Texas, it’s critical to seek a lawyer who understands the complexity and severity of your case.
Here’s how our team can assist you:
- We will start working on your case as soon as you reach out to us. We will listen to your side of the story and determine whether any laws were broken during the arrest and investigation or if your constitutional rights were violated.
- We will meticulously investigate every aspect of your case – from subpoenaing documents to interviewing witnesses. We will do everything needed to build a strong defense on your behalf.
- Our team possesses in-depth knowledge of federal statutes and procedures, which differ significantly from state laws. Understanding these differences is critical when navigating this complex justice system.
- Representation involves more than just preparing for trial. We will explore every plea deal to try to reduce charges or penalties. We will always explain any plea deals and their implications so you can make informed decisions about your case.
For help with charges relating to federal crimes, contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation with a Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Federal Crimes in Texas
When it comes to federal crimes in Texas, it’s important to understand what these crimes involve. A federal crime is something that is illegal under United States federal laws and is prosecuted in federal courts, not state courts. These crimes usually involve actions that cross state borders, affect federal institutions, or break federal laws. Here are some common federal crimes:
Drug Trafficking
Federal drug offenses deal with the distribution, manufacture, and delivery of controlled substances. Drug trafficking generally becomes a federal matter when the alleged activity crosses state lines, there’s involvement with federal lands or border entry points, large amounts of controlled substances are being investigated, or interstate communication systems are used for operation.
White Collar Crimes
White collar crimes are typically non-violent offenses committed by individuals, usually for financial gain. They involve deceit, concealment, or violation of trust, and they do not depend on the use of physical force or violence. Examples of white-collar crimes include fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, and money laundering.
Immigration Offenses
Immigration offenses encompass a wide range of activities that violate immigration laws. These offenses can include illegal entry into the country, overstaying a visa, providing false information on immigration documents, and employing undocumented workers. The consequences of immigration violations can be severe, including deportation, fines, and imprisonment.
Firearms Violations
Firearms violations are crimes that involve the illegal use, possession, or distribution of guns. As federal offenses, these crimes are taken very seriously and can result in harsh penalties. They can become federal crimes when they involve crossing state lines or the use of a firearm in a federal facility. Some common firearms violations include illegal possession of a firearm, trafficking firearms, and using a gun during the commission of another crime.
Kidnapping
Kidnapping is a criminal offense that involves the unlawful seizure and detention of an individual against their will. It is considered one of the most serious offenses due to its profound impact on the victim’s physical and psychological well-being.
Kidnapping generally becomes a federal offense when it crosses state lines or involves the victim being taken to another country.
Understanding federal crimes can help individuals realize how serious the situation is and how important it is to get legal help.
What Are the Potential Penalties For Federal Crimes in Texas?
Federal crimes in Texas carry severe penalties that vary depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Below are some of the potential penalties for these crimes:
Prison/Jail
Convictions for federal crimes can result in sentences served in prison or jail, depending on the offense’s gravity and the convicted individual’s criminal history. Prison terms can range from a few months for lesser offenses to life imprisonment for severe crimes. The federal sentencing guidelines provide a framework for determining the appropriate length of incarceration.
Probation
Instead of or in addition to a prison sentence, a federal court may impose probation. Probation allows an offender to stay out of jail while under the supervision of a probation officer. During probation, the individual must follow several rules set by the court. These conditions typically include meeting regularly with a probation officer and keeping a steady job. They may also have to attend counseling sessions and stay away from drugs and alcohol.
Fines
Monetary fines are another common penalty for federal offenses. The amount of these fines varies widely depending on the nature of the crime and the court’s discretion. Fines are typically intended to punish the offender and can range from several hundred to millions of dollars.
Sex Offender Registry
Individuals convicted of certain federal sex crimes may be required to register as sex offenders. This registry is maintained to monitor and track individuals convicted of sex crimes and is accessible to the public and law enforcement. Registration can last for a specific period or for life, depending on the severity of the crime and federal regulations.
If you’re facing a federal criminal charge, it’s essential to speak with a criminal defense lawyer in Fort Worth as soon as possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for a Federal Crime in Fort Worth, TX?
When facing federal criminal charges, it’s crucial to understand the defenses that may be available to you. The specific defense used will depend on the circumstances and the charges against you, but some common ones include:
Insufficient Evidence
Insufficient evidence means that there isn’t enough proof to hold someone legally responsible for a federal crime. In a criminal case, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused person committed the crime. If the evidence they present fails to meet this high standard, the charges can be dismissed, or the accused person can be found not guilty.
Constitutional Violations
Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys will investigate whether their client’s constitutional rights were violated. Common issues include unlawful searches and seizures, lack of Miranda warnings, and violations of the right to a speedy trial. If evidence was gathered illegally, it can be suppressed and prohibited from being used against you. This weakens the prosecutor’s case.
Alibi
An alibi defense involves proving that the defendant was somewhere else at the time the alleged crime occurred. This defense requires evidence like witness statements or documentation that can verify the defendant’s location.
Entrapment
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. This defense is particularly relevant in cases involving undercover and sting operations.
Duress or Coercion
This defense is applicable when the defendant committed the crime under immediate threat of serious harm or death. It argues that the defendant had no reasonable opportunity to escape the situation and acted under compulsion.
Understanding the various defenses available in federal criminal cases is essential for anyone accused of a federal crime.
If you’re dealing with the weight of a federal criminal charge in Texas, securing knowledgeable legal representation quickly is essential. You have the opportunity to schedule a case evaluation today with our criminal defense lawyers so we can discuss your legal options moving forward. For help, contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth federal crimes lawyer.
