Frisco, TX Federal Crimes Defense Lawyers

Knowledgeable Attorneys for Federal Charges Involving Fraud, Drug Crimes, Child Pornography, and More in Frisco, Texas

When a person is charged with a federal crime, the situation can be very serious. Unlike state-level offenses, federal crimes are investigated by powerful agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or Department of Homeland Security, and they are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal courts. These cases can be complex, and they have high stakes, since mandatory minimum sentences will often apply for people who are convicted. Prosecutors have extensive resources, and they will often aggressively pursue convictions. Because of these factors, representation by an attorney who has experience in federal criminal cases is essential.

The lawyers at Barbieri Law Firm can provide a strategic defense for clients in Frisco or the surrounding areas who are under investigation for federal crimes or who are facing prosecution in federal court. With a strong understanding of federal statutes, courtroom procedures, and evidentiary standards, our team is prepared to take decisive action to protect our clients' rights, challenge the accusations made by prosecutors, and fight for the best possible outcomes to these cases.

Types of Federal Criminal Charges

Federal prosecutors may take action to address a wide range of offenses. At Barbieri Law Firm, we defend clients facing serious allegations, and we provide effective representation in federal courts. We can address charges related to:

• Federal Drug Offenses: Accusations related to drug trafficking and related offenses, including the distribution or manufacturing of controlled substances or involvement in drug conspiracies, can lead to serious federal charges. The substances involved in these cases may include methamphetamines, heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, prescription drugs, or other controlled substances. Convictions often carry mandatory minimum sentences.
• Federal White Collar Crimes: These offenses may consist of various non-violent crimes involving allegations of fraud. These cases can be complex, and they frequently involve large volumes of documents and electronic evidence. The potential penalties vary depending on the amount of alleged financial losses, the number of victims, and the defendant's role in the alleged scheme. Our attorneys can address charges of wire fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, healthcare fraud, tax evasion, credit card fraud, money laundering, or other related offenses.
• Federal Child Pornography Offenses: Offenses related to the possession, distribution, receipt, production, or promotion of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) may be aggressively prosecuted in federal court. These charges may be based on investigations into a person's internet activity, including downloading CSAM or sharing materials with others. Convictions may result in lengthy prison terms and lifetime sex offender registration.
• Other Federal Offenses: Barbieri Law Firm also handles additional categories of federal crimes, including firearms offenses, human trafficking, computer crimes, and asset forfeiture proceedings.

Unique Aspects of Federal Criminal Cases

The procedures followed in federal courts may differ significantly from the ways state-level criminal charges are handled. Some of the key differences include:

• Grand Jury Indictments: Most federal felony cases begin with a grand jury indictment rather than a simple arrest or complaint.
• Extensive Discovery: Federal cases often involve complex financial records, surveillance footage, wiretap recordings, and forensic digital evidence.
• Limited Plea Options: Prosecutors may be less flexible in offering plea agreements, especially in high-profile cases or cases involving multiple defendants.
• Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure: These rules govern issues such as pretrial motions, discovery, trial procedures, and sentencing. They are different from the procedures followed in Texas state courts.
• Federal Sentencing Guidelines: Judges use a point-based system to determine the appropriate penalties. Factors that may affect sentences include the details of an offense and a person's criminal history.
• Mandatory Minimum Sentences: Certain offenses carry strict minimum penalties. Judicial discretion may be limited, and lengthy sentences may be required in certain cases.

Because of these differences, it is critical to work with a defense attorney who has the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate the federal system effectively.

Defending Clients in Federal Courts

The team at Barbieri Law Firm takes a proactive and strategic approach to every federal case, beginning with a comprehensive review of the facts, the charges, and the government's evidence. Our attorneys can take steps such as:

• Intervening during the investigation stage of a case, including communicating with federal agents or prosecutors before charges are filed and potentially preventing an indictment
• Challenging evidence through pretrial motions, taking steps to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dispute the admissibility of digital or forensic materials
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges, cooperation agreements, or sentencing recommendations that will help clients avoid the harshest penalties
• Preparing cases for trial to ensure that the proper defenses can be raised, including using expert witnesses, analyzing forensic evidence, and planning for cross-examination of government agents
• Advocating during the sentencing phase of cases by presenting mitigating evidence, arguing for reduced penalties, and highlighting a defendant's background, character, and role in an offense

In some cases, our lawyers may be able to take steps to avoid an indictment and prevent a client from being charged with a federal crime. In other cases, we may work to negotiate agreements that will allow a case to be resolved with minimal penalties, or we may take steps to fight the charges in court and advocate for an acquittal. Regardless of the circumstances of a case, our attorneys can provide the representation needed to achieve positive results.

Contact Our Frisco, TX Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

If you have learned that you are under investigation for a federal crime, or if you have been charged with an offense, Barbieri Law Firm can provide the legal help you need. Federal prosecutors will often act quickly and decisively, and securing legal representation as early as possible in your case can help ensure that your rights will be protected and that you can develop an effective defense strategy. Contact our Frisco federal crimes lawyers at 972-424-1902 to arrange a free consultation and begin building your defense.