San Antonio Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
Federal Crimes in Texas
Have you been accused of committing a federal offense in San Antonio? If so, you could be facing a number of serious punishments, including some that could threaten your career, relationships with your loved ones, future living, job prospects, and overall livelihood. When people find out they are under investigation for a federal crime they make the mistake of believing that they can talk to the authorities without legal counsel. Before speaking to any of the federal law enforcement agencies you need to consult with an attorney and come up with a plan. You need a team of expert attorneys by your side, fighting for your rights and freedoms, and making sure that you never feel left in the dark during the course of your case; at The Locke Law Group, this is exactly what you’ll find.
Schedule your initial consultation by calling us at (210) 361-3113 or completing our online form.
Common Federal Charges in Texas
Texans can face a range of federal charges, and understanding what these are can help in preparing a solid defense strategy. Some of the most common federal charges include:
- Drug trafficking and possession
- Immigration offenses
- White-collar crimes, including fraud and embezzlement
- Gun and firearm offenses
- Human trafficking
Facing any of these charges can have significant consequences on your life and freedom. It's essential to take these accusations seriously and to seek experienced legal representation immediately.
How a San Antonio Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
A skilled federal criminal defense attorney provides invaluable assistance to individuals accused of federal crimes. They offer a robust defense by:
- Analyzing your case thoroughly: This includes reviewing the charges against you, the circumstances under which they were made, and the evidence the government claims to have.
- Developing a customized defense strategy: An experienced attorney will craft a defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case, aiming to secure the best possible outcome.
- Negotiating with federal prosecutors: Your attorney can negotiate on your behalf, potentially reducing the charges against you or arguing for a more lenient sentence.
- Guiding you through the federal court process: Navigating the complexities of the federal court system can be challenging. A seasoned attorney can guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
- Protecting your rights: Perhaps most importantly, a federal criminal defense attorney is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you are treated fairly under the law.
Our Services
At The Locke Law Group, we offer a comprehensive suite of services for those facing federal charges, including:
- Initial case evaluation and consultation
- In-depth investigation and evidence gathering
- Strategy development and case preparation
- Representation in court proceedings
- Plea bargain negotiations when applicable
- Assistance with appeals and post-conviction relief
Facing federal charges can be daunting, but you don't have to face them alone. Our team is committed to providing rigorous defense and personalized attention throughout the duration of your case.
Defenses to Federal Criminal Charges
The following are just a few of the possible defenses for such cases:
- Unlawful search and seizure- If drugs, child pornography, or other evidence indicating the commission of a federal offense was obtained by the authorities in an illegal fashion, a motion to dismiss that evidence could be filed on that basis prior to trial. If successful, such a motion would eliminate the government’s evidence and therefore severely weaken their case against you.
- Entrapment- If it can be shown that law enforcement agents coerced you into committing a crime which you otherwise may not have committed, a skilled federal crime defense attorney may be able to argue that you were the victim of entrapment and should therefore not be convicted.
- Insufficient evidence- Since the burden of proof falls on the prosecutor, it is their responsibility to provide sufficient and convincing evidence of your guilt. If your federal offense attorney is able to prevent evidence from being used in trial or show that the prosecutor simply doesn’t have enough evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, then you may avoid a conviction.
- No intent to commit a crime- If it cannot be proven that you intended to commit the crime for which you’ve been charged, it will be difficult for the prosecutor to successfully convict you.
Common Mistakes Made When Facing Federal Charges
Facing federal charges is an overwhelming experience that can lead to crucial mistakes, often due to lack of knowledge or proper legal counsel. Among the common missteps are:
- Speaking to federal authorities without an attorney: Many individuals believe they can clear their name by talking to the authorities without legal representation. This can lead to unintentional self-incrimination.
- Waiting too long to hire a defense attorney: Time is of the essence in federal cases. Delaying the decision to hire legal counsel can hamper the attorney's ability to gather evidence and form a strong defense.
- Choosing an attorney without federal case experience: Federal courts operate under a different set of rules and procedures compared to state courts. An attorney lacking in federal case experience may not be as effective.
- Not being truthful with your attorney: Withholding information from your legal team can lead to surprises in court, affecting your defense strategy.
How a Federal Defense Lawyer Can Help Avoid These Mistakes
A competent federal defense lawyer plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of your case, ensuring that these common mistakes are avoided:
- Ensuring your rights are protected: From the moment you are accused, a federal defense lawyer acts as your advocate, ensuring that you do not make statements or decisions that could harm your case.
- Immediate and strategic planning: A skilled attorney begins crafting a defense strategy immediately upon being hired, which can significantly affect the outcome of the case.
- Expertise in federal law and court proceedings: Federal defense lawyers are well-versed in the nuances of federal law and the intricacies of the federal court system, enabling them to navigate your case with expertise.
- Open and honest communication: Establishing a transparent relationship with clients, federal defense lawyers encourage honesty and openness, ensuring they have all the necessary information to defend you effectively.
By engaging a seasoned federal defense lawyer, you can significantly mitigate the chances of making detrimental mistakes, thereby enhancing your prospects for a favorable outcome.
Don’t procrastinate; contact us today and move one step closer toward regaining the life you’ve built in San Antonio, TX.