Federal Crimes
Federal Crimes Attorney – Brett A. Podolsky
The United States of America has a set of criminal codes that is separate from the laws of Texas. When a person violates federal law, federal prosecutors with the Southern District of Texas will aggressively prosecute these crimes. If a person has been charged with a federal crime, it is important to hire an experienced federal defense attorney like Brett A. Podolsky to prepare an effective defense. Contact Brett Podolsky today if you have been charged with a federal crime, such as human trafficking or drug trafficking.
Being convicted of a federal crime will result in extremely harsh penalties that will have far-reaching effects throughout a person’s life. Prison sentences for federal crimes are generally much longer than state sentences. Also, most people convicted of a federal crime will be placed on supervised release or federal probation. A felony conviction may result in the following:
- Loss of employment
- Loss of the right to vote
- Loss of the right to possess a firearm
- Loss of educational opportunities
Types of Federal Crimes
Three main agencies investigate federal crimes: the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The vast majority of federal crimes are drug related, violent or white collar. The following are some examples of federal crimes:
- Federal distribution or manufacturing of drugs
- Federal drug trafficking
- Federal firearms charges
- Human trafficking
- Capital murder
- Bank robbery
Process for a Federal Charge
A federal charge has many different steps. Each step has its own procedure and has its own purpose in a federal crime. It is important to retain an attorney such as Brett A. Podolsky as soon as possible in a federal procedure so that he may begin preparing an effective defense.
The following steps can be expected for a federal crime:
- Complaint or indictment – A federal case begins with either a complaint or indictment.
- Initial appearance – The first time a defendant is brought before the judge is at initial appearance.
- Detention hearing – A judge will determine whether a defendant may be released at this stage of the proceeding.
- Plea Agreement or trial – A defendant may either plead guilty with a plea agreement or force the prosecution to put on a trial to determine guilt.
- Sentencing hearing – The defense will have the ability to put on evidence for sentencing and argue for a possible sentence.
- Appeal – The defendant can file an appeal and ask a higher court to review the District Court’s decision.
How Can Brett Podolsky Help?
Because of the serious nature of federal crimes, the importance of hiring a knowledgeable and experienced attorney increases. Attorney Brett Podolsky understands the federal system and will help his clients to navigate the federal justice system. He will fight for his clients to receive the best possible outcome for their case.
