What Factors Can Reduce a Sentence in Federal Court?
A federal conviction can bring serious penalties, but sentencing isn’t always final. Judges consider multiple factors before deciding on a prison term, fines, or probation. While federal sentencing guidelines provide a framework, they are not set in stone. In some cases, defendants may qualify for a reduced sentence based on their actions,...
What Should I Do if I’m Under Federal Investigation?
If federal agents have contacted you or you suspect you’re under investigation, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. You may not know what they’re looking for or whether you’re facing charges. Federal cases move quickly, and prosecutors have extensive resources to build their case. How you respond in these early stages can have...
Signs You May Be Under Federal Investigation
Federal law enforcement agencies don’t always announce when they’re investigating someone. Many people only realize they’re under scrutiny when agents show up at their door, seize assets, or issue subpoenas. Federal cases take time to build, often involving months of surveillance, financial tracking, and witness interviews. Investigators rarely move forward unless they...
What Is the Safety Valve Provision in Federal Sentencing?
Mandatory minimum sentences in federal cases can lead to severe penalties, even for first-time offenders. However, not everyone accused of a crime fits the same mold, and strict sentencing laws don’t always account for individual circumstances. That’s where the safety valve provision comes in. This law allows certain non-violent offenders to receive...
How Will a Federal Conviction Affect My Future Employment?
A federal conviction can make it harder to find a job, but it does not mean you are out of options. Many employers look at criminal records when making hiring decisions, and some industries have strict rules about who they can hire. However, not every employer will automatically reject an applicant with...
Post-Conviction Options: Appeals, Resentencing, & Petitions
A conviction doesn’t always mean the fight is over. You still have options to challenge the outcome, reduce your sentence, or seek relief through post-conviction motions. Courts make mistakes, and laws change, opening new opportunities for review. Whether you believe your trial was unfair, your sentence is too harsh, or new evidence...
How Do Federal Judges Calculate Sentencing Guidelines?
Standing before a federal judge for sentencing can feel overwhelming. You might be wondering how the judge will decide your fate and what factors will determine the length of your sentence. While federal sentencing guidelines may seem like a complex maze of rules and calculations, they follow a structured process that we...
Consequences of a Federal Conviction
A federal conviction doesn’t just lead to fines or time behind bars—it can follow you for life. Long after a sentence is served, the effects can linger in ways many people don’t expect. Losing certain rights, struggling to find a job, or even facing deportation are just a few of the lasting...
What to Do If You’re Accused of Firearm Charges
A firearm charge can feel overwhelming, especially when federal law is involved. Prosecutors often seek long sentences with little room for leniency. Whether the charge stems from a misunderstanding, a past conviction, or an alleged connection to another crime, the consequences can be severe. In moments like these, what you do next...
Hiring the Right Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you receive a knock on your door first thing in the morning from the FBI and find out that you are under arrest and charged or indicted with a federal crime, you are going to need to find the right federal criminal defense attorney to represent you. Your choice of...