Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers for Federal Charges

Your best defense against Federal Criminal Charges

Facing criminal charges is stressful enough-when the stakes are as high as they are in federal cases, it can feel overwhelming and isolating. With Barbieri Law Firm by your side, you won't have to face it alone. Our federal defense lawyers have in-depth knowledge of criminal laws, both at the state and federal level, and vast experience representing clients in complex cases. We ensure our clients are fully informed about the intricacies of their case, the legal proceedings, and the defense strategies we have available.

For over 25 years, Barbieri Law Firm has focused exclusively on criminal defense-delivering consistent expertise and securing the best possible outcomes. By deliberately limiting our caseloads, BLF ensures that every client gets the full attention of our attorneys on their case. This allows us to build personal connections, uncover critical details, and craft powerful, personalized defense strategies that other firms simply can't match.

Time is crucial when it comes to federal cases-call now for a free consultation and find out how we can defend your life and reputation.

We Defend Clients Against Federal Charges

Our lawyers defend against federal criminal charges in the following Texas districts:

• Eastern District of Texas
• Northern District of Texas

Whether you're being investigated or formally charged anywhere across the state, our team possesses in-depth knowledge of federal laws and procedures.

Types of Federal Charges We Handle

We handle a wide range of federal cases, including:

Immigration-Related Offenses

• Human Trafficking
• Smuggling of persons
• Document fraud

Drug Offenses

• Manufacturing
• Drug trafficking
• Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances

White-Collar Crimes

• Tax evasion
• Wire and mail fraud
• Embezzlement
• Money laundering

Other Offenses

• Child pornography
• Theft
• Arson

Strategic Defense

Facing federal charges can be overwhelming, but there are several strategic defenses that can be used to challenge the prosecution's case. In many instances, these defenses aim to demonstrate that the evidence is insufficient or unreliable. Common strategies include:

• Lack of Evidence: Arguing that the prosecution cannot prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This could involve pointing out weaknesses in the evidence, discrepancies in witness testimony, or the lack of physical evidence linking the defendant to the crime.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Challenging the lawfulness of how evidence was obtained. If law enforcement violated the defendant's constitutional rights by conducting an unlawful search or seizure, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
• Entrapment: If the defendant was coerced or induced by law enforcement to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed, this can be a valid defense. Entrapment focuses on the actions of law enforcement rather than the defendant's conduct.
• Mistake of Fact: This defense asserts that the defendant made an honest mistake regarding the facts of the case, and as a result, did not have the intent to commit the crime.
• Alibi: Presenting evidence or witnesses that show the defendant could not have committed the crime because they were somewhere else at the time the offense occurred.
• Constitutional Violations: If the defendant's rights were violated during the investigation or arrest, such as the right to remain silent or to an attorney, the case may be dismissed or evidence excluded.

Each defense depends on the specific facts of the case, and our experienced federal criminal defense attorneys can help develop the strongest strategy to challenge the charges and protect your future.

Our Process

Free Confidential Consultation

We start with a one-on-one conversation where we listen, ask key questions, and begin assessing your legal situation.

Case Review & Early Action

Our in-house investigator reviews police reports, statements, and any available evidence, eliminating the delays and added costs of outsourcing. If you’re under investigation, we may be able to intervene early.

Strategic Legal Plan

Every assault case is different. Once we understand the details, we develop a personalized legal strategy focused on dismissal, reduction, or acquittal, depending on what’s possible in your case.

Proactive Defense

We don’t wait for the DA to act. Our lawyers file motions, challenge weak evidence, and negotiate aggressively.

Courtroom Advocacy or Case Resolution

Whether through a favorable plea deal or a full trial, we fight for the best outcome possible. You’ll always know where your case stands, what’s coming next, and what your options are.

Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers: Frequently Asked Questions

How Our Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers Defend You

In Texas, federal offenses typically involve large-scale crimes or financial crimes that involve large sums of money.

Federal sentencing is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which factor in the offense level and the defendant’s criminal history. Federal sentences tend to be more severe than state sentences. Even first-time offenders can face long prison terms and mandatory minimums.

Federal criminal defense requires deep knowledge of federal law, courtroom procedures, and strategy. Not every criminal defense attorney handles federal cases—Barbieri Law Firm does. We’ve defended clients against some of the most high-stakes federal charges in Texas.

• Arraignments and bond hearings
• Motions to suppress damaging evidence
• Pretrial strategy and negotiations
• Full trial defense when necessary

We know your future is on the line—don’t risk the cost of conviction.

What to Expect in a Federal Criminal Defense Case

Federal cases are fast-moving and highly procedural. For this reason, a person facing federal charges should make sure to hire an experienced federal criminal defense attorney.

Here are the usual stages in a federal case:

1. Investigation – Federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF investigate, which may involve interviews, surveillance, or gathering records. Their evidence is then presented to a U.S. Attorney for review.
2. Charges & Arrest – If the government believes a crime occurred based on the evidence, they file charges. After an arrest, you attend an arraignment and formally enter a plea (usually “not guilty”).
3. Discovery & Pretrial Defense – Your attorney reviews the evidence that the government plans to use against you. They may also file motions and begin plea negotiations.
4. Plea Agreement – Plea negotiations may result in an offer. Your attorney will explain the potential consequences and advise you to make a decision.
5. Trial – If no agreement is reached, your case will go to trial in federal court. You are presumed innocent, and the government must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
6. Sentencing – A Pre-Sentence Report is prepared with background information and details of the offense. Both sides make arguments about a possible sentence, and the judge considers federal sentencing guidelines.

If You’re Under Investigation

If your case is still under investigation, we may be able to intervene before charges are even filed.

If your case is still in the investigation stage, it’s a crucial time to have a lawyer involved. Your attorney will stay in contact with law enforcement to monitor developments and prepare you for what may come next. If charges are likely, we’ll help you make a plan—so if an arrest is coming, you can handle it calmly and with a clear strategy.

Even before you step into a courtroom, your legal team is already working. Our paralegals regularly check with the court to track whether charges have been filed or if a grand jury hearing is scheduled. We’ll keep you updated on every new development—so nothing catches you off guard.

In-House Investigator for Superior Case Management

A seasoned 36-year law enforcement veteran now leads our investigations team. She will handle everything from gathering evidence to preparing reports and providing testimony, working directly with our legal team to tailor strategies and ensure the best defense possible for our clients.

• With an in-house investigator, we eliminate the delays and added costs of outsourcing, enabling faster action and more precise case strategies that lead to better outcomes for our clients.

Key court appearances include:

• Arraignment: Your first court date. The judge reads the charges, and you enter a plea—guilty or not guilty. Evidence sharing begins here.
• Bond or Detention Hearing: At this hearing, the judge decides whether you can stay out on bond or must stay in custody while your case moves forward, looking at things like your background, ties to the community, and the seriousness of the charges.
• Plea Hearing: If you accept a plea, you’ll go to court for a plea hearing, where the judge ensures your decision is voluntary and informed.

If you’re being investigated or have been charged with a federal offense, you need the best federal criminal defense lawyer to fight for you.

How Charges Are Filed in Texas

There are two ways charges typically move forward:

• By Information: Common for misdemeanors and less serious offenses. The DA files the charge directly.
• By Indictment: Used for felonies. A grand jury reviews the case and decides if there’s enough evidence to move forward.

Once charges are filed.

Once charges are filed, you become the defendant and your case is assigned a cause number and a court date.

Here’s a breakdown of key court appearances in most criminal cases:

• Arraignment or Initial Appearance: Your first court date. The judge reads the charges, and you enter a plea—guilty or not guilty. Evidence sharing begins here.
• Status Conferences / Announcement Settings: These check-in hearings track progress. Your lawyer may be negotiating with the DA or still reviewing the evidence.
• Pretrial Hearings: Your attorney may ask the judge to dismiss weak evidence or challenge how it was obtained.

Your Case, Your Decision

After building your defense, your case will reach a decision point:

• Plea Deal: The DA may offer a deal. We’ll explain the pros, the risks, and your options clearly. You stay in control—we’re here to guide, not pressure.
• Trial: If you reject the plea, we’ll prepare for trial before a judge or jury, where your case is fully argued and defended.

Disposition Stage: The Final Step

This is where the case is resolved—either by a plea agreement, a jury verdict, or a judge’s ruling after trial. It’s the most serious part of the process, and where everything we’ve done comes to a head.

Real Results: Domestic violence charges

Dismissed on Day One

A professional in Denton County got a call from a detective—just a “quick conversation” about an alleged sexual assault committed by his teenager. Instead of responding, he called Barbieri Law Firm.

Within hours, our attorney assigned to the case contacted the investigator, took control of the narrative, and shut down law enforcement’s angle before charges were ever filed. The result? Case dismissed at the investigation stage.

This is why you don’t wait until charges are filed. The moment law enforcement reaches out; the clock starts ticking. Call Barbieri Law Firm first—because our fastest wins happen when we’re brought in before the system takes its first swing.

Political Pressure, Legal Strategy, and Vindication: How Expert Defense Navigated High-Stakes Securities Allegations

Just five months into his term as Texas Attorney General, our client was indicted in McKinney on felony charges for allegedly deceiving investors in a tech startup. The accusations were based on actions from 2011, when our client was a state lawmaker. He was accused of recruiting investors without revealing he was being paid by the startup. He pleaded not guilty, and defense team, including our founding attorney Heather J. Barbieri, argued the case was politically motivated. Last year, our client agreed to pay restitution to resolve the criminal securities fraud charges.

In addition, federal regulators filed a civil lawsuit, but in 2017, a federal judge dismissed the case, raising doubts about the criminal charges.

Did you know?

You don’t have to cross state lines face federal charges.

Use of a cell phone, email, or mail service tied to interstate commerce can put your case in federal jurisdiction, even if everything happens in one Texas county.

Some federal charges carry mandatory minimums.

Offenses like drug trafficking or child exploitation often come with mandatory prison time—meaning the judge can’t go below that sentence, even in compelling circumstances.

Call Barbieri Law Firm—Because the Right Assault Lawyers Can Change Your Life.

Criminal accusations don’t just threaten your legal record—they threaten your entire life. Don’t wait. When you’re facing criminal charges in any of the counties in North, East, South, or Central Texas, you need a legal team that knows how to win and how to protect you while doing it.

Ready to Fight Back? Call Barbieri Law Firm Today.

Let our seasoned criminal defense lawyers show you what real defense looks like. Call us now or schedule a confidential consultation. We’re the team prosecutors warn each other about. Call 972-424-1902.