Dallas Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

Fighting to Protect the Freedom of Defendants Facing Federal Criminal Charges

If you have been arrested on federal criminal charges, there is a strong possibility that you could face a lengthy prison sentence along with steep fines. Federal judges have the legal authority to impose stiff mandatory minimum sentences for even first-time offenders.

The federal system differs from the Texas criminal system in handling cases, legal procedures, and penalties for those convicted of federal offenses.

Therefore, anyone involved with the federal court system must hire an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Unfortunately, not all criminal defense lawyers are qualified to navigate federal laws and cannot defend individuals accused of federal offenses.

Palmer Perlstein is a Dallas law firm with extensive experience defending clients accused of life-changing federal crimes. Our dedicated team of legal professionals understands what it takes to win federal cases and will work hard to protect your rights and freedom.

Contact our law offices today and ask to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our Dallas federal criminal defense lawyers, who will professionally evaluate your case.

What Should I Do if I Think I May Be Arrested on Federal Criminal Charges?

If you feel that you may be arrested and charged with a federal offense, you must take several critical steps to ensure your ability to protect your rights and freedom. These steps include:

Speak with a qualified federal criminal defense attorney immediately. If federal agents have made contact with you regarding a criminal investigation, you cannot wait to hire an attorney, as an arrest may be imminent
If you are arrested, do not consent to providing a statement or answering any questions without a Dallas defense attorney being present at questioning. Federal agents are highly trained investigators skilled in obtaining information in interrogations. It is important to remember that just as in state cases, anything you say can be used against you
Self-advocate for your constitutional rights: If you have been charged with a federal crime, it is essential to remember that your rights are still protected under the Constitution. The Constitution protects all citizens against self-incrimination and unlawful search and seizure and guarantees everyone the right to legal representation. If you believe that your constitutional rights have been violated, you must consult with your defense attorney, who will fight to protect your rights
Hire an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who will professionally analyze the evidence, work with prosecutors, or provide legal representation should your case go to trial. Due to the legal intricacies associated with federal crimes, defendants should never try to handle their cases without the assistance of a qualified attorney

Why Do I Need to Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Defendants accused in federal criminal cases must hire an experienced criminal defense attorney unafraid to stand up to federal prosecutors. Federal prosecutors typically have access to the vast network of financial resources afforded to them by the federal government with the intent of winning convictions.

However, even with the unlimited resources available to prosecutors, hiring a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately is essential for defendants. Some of the primary reasons why federal defendants must hire a Dallas federal criminal defense lawyer include:

Experienced criminal defense lawyers have a working knowledge of federal law and procedures that must be followed.
Assists clients in understanding the charges and any criminal penalties associated with potential convictions.
Protect defendant’s rights when up against overzealous federal prosecutors.
Professionally evaluate the federal criminal charges to determine appropriate legal strategies.
Conduct an independent investigation to build a solid defense.
Work with federal prosecutors to try and have the criminal charges dismissed or reduced.
If necessary, provide quality legal representation should your case need to go to trial.

Even if you believe you may be arrested and charged with a federal offense, you must hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Hiring a Dallas federal criminal defense lawyer can protect your legal rights. All too often, many defendants make the mistake of waiting to hire a federal defense lawyer. Waiting to hire a qualified attorney can cost defendants more time and money as their legal representative works to catch up on the facts of the case.

Furthermore, a federal defense attorney understands how federal government agencies conduct investigations and obtain evidence. As a result, a defense attorney can gain access to witness statements and other evidence that could not be accessed otherwise.

Finally, one of the most significant reasons why defendants must hire federal criminal defense attorneys is that they can negotiate with federal prosecutors to try and mitigate criminal penalties, including potential jail time, receiving probation, and reducing fines or restitution. Additionally, a skilled federal defense lawyer may be able to have a defendant released.

If you need further clarification regarding the advantages of hiring a federal defense attorney, contact Palmer Perlstein today to schedule a consultation.

What are the Stages of Federal Prosecution in Texas?

Most people need to familiarize themselves with the stages of the federal prosecution. Although federal cases and the investigative process can be extensive, they can be broken down into several stages.

Federal Investigation

Most federal cases begin with investigations into alleged criminal actions. These federal investigations are typically extensive and could last weeks, months, or even longer. Depending on the case, the government often uses several federal agencies to scrutinize what they believe to be illegal activities.

Federal Grand Jury

If the federal government determines a crime has been committed, criminal charges are sought through a grand jury. A federal grand jury comprises jurors who hear evidence presented by government prosecutors and then decide if there is probable cause to proceed with the case.

Federal Criminal Trial

If a federal grand jury indicts a defendant, the case will be set for trial. However, just as in state court, a federal defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to try to dismiss indictments or work out plea agreements before trial.

Our Dallas federal criminal defense attorneys have comprehensive experience assisting clients through every stage of federal prosecution. With our combined years of experience, we can develop advanced legal strategies to prevent clients from being sentenced to federal prison. In some instances, we can stop charges from being filed or may have to take your case to court to resolve your legal issues. Regardless of the circumstances, our legal team will stand by your side from start to finish as we work to obtain an outcome favorable to you.

What is the Difference Between Federal and State Charges in Texas?

The United States legal system uses two different jurisdictions, state and federal, to enforce laws. Although the Texas state and federal systems are similar, distinct differences apply to defendants. It should be stated that federal law takes priority over Texas state law.

The only entity authorized to pursue federal charges is the U.S. government when federal laws have been violated. Government agencies involved in the federal system include the Medicare Strike Force, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), ATF, and FBI. When a federal agency believes that laws have been violated, it will launch a federal investigation to determine if charges should be brought against defendants.

Common offenses pursued by federal agencies include:

Large-scale drug trafficking operations
National security threats
Criminal actions that cross state lines
Violations of immigration and customs laws
Crimes that occur on federal property
Healthcare and Medicare fraud
Child pornography
Federal conspiracy
Mortgage fraud
White-collar crimes
Firearm offenses

Other federal crimes include mail fraud, wire fraud, and tax evasion.

Federal investigations that lead to arrests are dealt with in federal courts. Individuals convicted in federal court are subjected to sentencing guidelines and are more likely to suffer harsher sentences than those imposed in state court.

Conversely, charges for violations of Texas laws are handled in state court. State courts must adhere to legal guidelines outlined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and Texas Penal Code. Unlike a federal conviction that may include mandatory minimum sentences, state courts may impose lesser sentences.

If you are still unclear regarding the differences between federal and state law, contact our law offices to schedule an appointment with a Dallas federal criminal defense attorney who can answer your questions.

Are Criminal Penalties Enhanced for Defendants Convicted in Federal Courts?

One of the most notable issues federal defendants face is enhanced criminal penalties compared to those handed down in state court. Federal courts are known for more stringent sentencing guidelines and harsher penalties. Defendants convicted of federal crimes must typically serve at least 85% of their sentences.

The federal sentencing guidelines consider two main factors: the seriousness of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history. As a result, a federal criminal conviction can forever change a defendant’s life.

For example, suppose you are a professional convicted of tax evasion or money laundering; you can be sentenced to serve time in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution. Even if you pay your debt to society and spend time in prison, your professional life and reputation will never be the same as they were before your conviction.

Furthermore, you will forever be labeled a convicted felon, which prevents you from legally purchasing and owning firearms or entering the military and may limit your ability to obtain gainful employment or secure adequate housing.

As a result, anyone charged with a federal criminal offense must obtain skilled legal representation immediately. One of the most common mistakes many defendants make is talking to law enforcement officers without a qualified criminal defense lawyer.

A federal prosecutor will gladly use any defendant’s statement to build a strong case against them. Because most federal prosecutors feel they must protect public safety, they typically pursue the maximum penalties when trying federal cases.

Our Dallas federal criminal defense attorney can provide more information regarding federal statutes and how they may affect your case.

What Legal Strategies Do Federal Defense Attorneys Use to Defend Their Clients?

Criminal defense lawyers in the federal court system have numerous legal strategies that they may use to defend their clients. However, just as with any criminal charge, the type of legal strategy that an attorney may use will largely depend on the facts of the case.

Some of the most commonly used legal strategies used by federal criminal defense attorneys include:

Reasonable doubt: Remember that a federal prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused is guilty of the crime they have been charged with. When a defense attorney can cast doubt on the allegations made by the federal government, the defendant may be able to win their case.
Entrapment: Entrapment is a common defense in federal cases. Entrapment occurs when a law enforcement officer persuades a defendant to commit a crime they may not have otherwise committed.
Duress: In many instances, criminal defense lawyers can present evidence that demonstrates their clients were forced to commit crimes due to intimidation or fear for their safety.
False confession: An experienced defense lawyer may be able to review the evidence and prove that their client made a false confession to law enforcement due to being intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, or coercion.

Other legal strategies criminal defense lawyers utilize in federal cases include self-defense or mental incompetency. However, several legal elements must be present for these strategies to be effective in a federal criminal case.

Palmer Perlstein is knowledgeable Dallas federal criminal lawyers with extensive experience building innovative defense strategies for clients. Contact our law offices to schedule a consultation to learn how we can assist you with your legal needs.

Can Defendants Charged With Federal Crimes Receive Probation?

Like state court, a federal judge can legally sentence a defendant to probation. However, due to sentencing guidelines, this is not always an option.

Federal law prevents a judge from granting probation in cases where the defendant is accused of Class A or B felonies.

Class A felonies may be punished by life in prison or death and may include the following types of offenses:

Murder
Sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion
Sexual abuse
Carrying, brandishing, or using a firearm in connection with a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime
Kidnapping

Federal Class B felonies are punishable by up to 25 years in prison and may include:

Sexual exploitation of children
Possession, distribution, or receipt of child pornography
Bank fraud
Fraud in connection with a major disaster or emergency benefits

Additionally, a federal judge may not grant probation if the statute prohibits it.

Not every case qualifies for federal probation, and judges consider many factors before making decisions. Some of the many determinants judges use when deciding if federal probation is appropriate include:

The seriousness of the offense
Whether probation is appropriate for the offense that was committed
Whether granting probation promotes respect for federal laws

The court will also review recommendations from the defendant’s defense attorney, prosecutor, and US probation officer.

A knowledgeable federal criminal defense lawyer familiar with your case can help you understand your legal options and whether you may be a candidate for probation. For more information about federal probation, contact our Dallas law offices to schedule a meeting with a qualified legal team member who will gladly answer your questions.

Can Federal Convictions Be Appealed?

Many defendants mistakenly believe that if they are convicted of federal crimes, it is the end of the road. However, there are still several legal avenues that defendants can pursue to try and appeal their sentences that were decided in district courts. With the help of a knowledgeable federal criminal defense attorney, individuals may be able to appeal their sentences to higher federal courts.

If an appeal is successful, the individual may be able to request a new trial or have their sentence overturned. However, the federal court system can be confusing and nearly impossible to navigate without a qualified attorney.

We have a board-certified criminal appellate attorney in-house. Contact our law firm to learn if your case may be eligible for an appeal and what legal steps may follow.

Can Your Dallas Law Firm Provide the Representation I Need For Federal Charges in Texas?

At Palmer Perlstein, our Dallas federal defense attorneys handle various federal crime cases and are more than capable of aggressively representing your rights. Federal prosecutors are an aggressive and talented group of individuals who will stop at nothing to see you behind bars.

One of our attorneys, a former probation officer, has great insight into the questions and legal arguments the prosecution may raise. As a result, we have the inside track on how to build defense strategies that will work in your favor.

Our founding attorney, Scott Palmer, has years of experience in the legal field with a focus on criminal law. His peers have recognized Attorney Palmer for his accomplishments as a trial lawyer and fearless legal advocate for clients involved in the federal court system. Scott’s dedication and unrelenting work for clients has grown and shaped Palmer Perlstein’s ability to handle federal criminal cases effectively.

Our Dallas federal defense attorneys are well-qualified to handle federal crimes, including:

White Collar Crimes
Federal Drug Charges
Fraud
Money Laundering
Federal Sex Crimes
Federal Weapons Charges

The Palmer Perlstein law firm has been devoted to going the extra mile for our clients for over two decades. You can trust that we will exhaustively research and aggressively represent your interests.

With nearly 100 years of combined experience, our Dallas federal defense lawyers have handled criminal cases of every variety. We will gladly represent you in your matter and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the representation you deserve. Do not settle for less than the best when you choose a Dallas federal defense lawyer. Your future is on the line, and our firm can best help you secure it.

Contact our Dallas, TX law firm by calling (469) 966-7614 and ask to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your legal needs.