Federal crimes are different from state-level crimes. The federal court system is complicated. If you are charged, you need to understand how the federal process works so that you know what to expect.
Facing federal charges is serious. Federal prosecutors don’t take on cases unless they believe they have strong evidence. These stakes are often higher than in state court.
Here’s a breakdown of how the federal criminal justice system works for Texas criminal defendants.
Why Does a Case End Up in Federal Court?
Federal courts handle cases involving violations of federal law, crimes that cross state lines, or offenses committed on federal property. If federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF are involved in the investigation, the case is likely to go to federal court.
Your case is no longer under state law once you are charged with a federal crime. At this point, everything falls under the federal system.
Federal Courts in Texas
Texas is home to four federal district courts, which are broken into smaller divisions:
- Northern District of Texas
- Southern District of Texas
- Eastern District of Texas
- Western District of Texas
Where your case is heard depends on where the alleged offense took place. For example, cases in Houston fall under the Southern District of Texas, while the Northern District handles cases in Dallas.
What Happens When You’re Charged with a Federal Crime?
Federal cases often begin with lengthy investigations led by agencies like the DEA or FBI. These investigations can include surveillance, wiretaps, and search warrants. The federal government has substantial evidence against the defendant when charges are filed.
If you’re facing federal charges, the government has spent months or years building its case. This is why having experienced legal representation from the very beginning is so important.
The Initial Court Process
Once the investigation concludes, federal prosecutors file charges. This can happen through a criminal complaint or an indictment. After charges are filed, the defendant is arrested and brought before a federal magistrate judge.
At the initial court appearance, the defendant learns about the charges against them and their legal rights. A federal public defender is appointed if they cannot afford a lawyer.
The next step is often a detention hearing. This is where the judge decides whether the defendant can be released on bond. Federal courts are stricter than state courts. Usually, defendants must prove they are not a flight risk or a danger to the community.
At the arraignment, the defendant enters a plea. This plea can be guilty or not guilty. If the plea is not guilty, the case moves to the pretrial phase.
Pretrial Phase and Negotiations
This stage involves building the case for trial or negotiating a plea deal. The defense may file motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or challenge the prosecution’s case. However, many federal cases are resolved through plea agreements. Sometimes, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.
During this phase, having a skilled attorney can make all the difference. An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate with federal prosecutors and evaluate whether a plea deal is in your best interest.
Unfortunately, not all cases can be resolved before trial. Federal trials are serious and highly structured. These government prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt that a defendant committed the offense.
The Trial and Sentencing
In these cases, if the jury finds the defendant guilty, the judge determines the sentence. Federal sentencing follows strict guidelines, and often, that means harsh sentences and years of incarceration.
Keep in mind that federal sentences are usually harsher than state sentences. There is no parole in the federal system, and defendants serve at least 85% of their prison time.
Federal Crimes Required Experienced Representation
You can get prepared now that you know how the federal criminal justice system works for Texas criminal defendants. With a conviction, you can face harsh consequences. For this reason, you need a knowledgeable and skilled federal criminal defense lawyer on your side.
Reach out to the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski, we are here to support you throughout any state or federal legal process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can start protecting your rights.