Unlike state charges, federal cases involve aggressive prosecutors, extensive investigations, and harsh sentencing guidelines. You may feel like the system is stacked against you, with federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or IRS working to build a case that could result in years behind bars.
The stress of facing the unknown—potential prison time, financial ruin, and the impact on your family—can feel unbearable.
But ignoring the problem or hoping for the best isn’t an option.
Federal charges often come with mandatory minimum sentences, meaning even a first-time offense can lead to devastating consequences. A conviction could mean lengthy federal prison time, six-figure fines, asset forfeiture, and a permanent criminal record that destroys your future. The federal government has unlimited resources to prosecute you—and without an aggressive defense strategy, your chances of avoiding the worst outcomes are slim.
This is where our firm steps in. At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we understand what’s at stake.
Our Dallas federal criminal defense lawyer is prepared to fight for you at every stage—challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and defending your rights in federal court.
With our knowledge of federal law and our experience handling complex cases, we’ll build the strongest possible defense to protect your freedom, your finances, and your future. Call us today at (972) 528-0481 for a consultation.
What is Federal Criminal Defense?
Federal criminal defense involves legal representation for individuals accused of violating federal laws, which are prosecuted in U.S. District Courts rather than state courts.
Unlike state crimes—such as DUI or simple assault—federal offenses typically involve violations of national laws, crimes that cross state lines, or offenses committed on federal property.
Federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and investigated by powerful agencies such as:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
These agencies have extensive resources, meaning federal investigations are often more thorough and strategic than state-level cases.
Because federal crimes carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and steep fines, it’s critical to have an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer who understands the complexities of the federal justice system.
We have the knowledge and experience to take on the federal government and fight for your rights.
Common Charges Our Dallas Federal Criminal Lawyer Handles
Counterfeiting
Counterfeiting U.S. currency and government-issued documents is a serious federal crime investigated by the Secret Service. This includes producing fake money, forging government bonds, or falsifying official identification such as passports.
- Penalties: A conviction for counterfeiting can lead to up to 20 years in federal prison, steep fines, and seizure of all counterfeit materials and assets used in the crime.
Cybercrime
Cybercrime includes offenses such as identity theft, hacking, and internet fraud. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Secret Service investigate these crimes.
- Penalties: Sentences vary based on the offense. For example, identity theft carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years, while hacking under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) can result in up to 10 years in prison per offense.
Drug Trafficking
Drug crimes are some of the most commonly pursued cases in federal court. With an increase in federal drug offenses looming, Congress passed the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) of 1970, banning substances like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) enforces these criminal laws and can override state cases to prosecute drug activity on a larger scale.
- Penalties: Federal drug trafficking convictions come with mandatory minimum sentences, with penalties ranging from 5 years to life in prison depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
Healthcare Fraud (Medicare & Medicaid Fraud)
Healthcare fraud involves submitting false claims to Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurers. This can include billing for services not provided, falsifying medical records, or kickback schemes. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the DOJ aggressively prosecute these cases.
- Penalties: Convictions can result in up to 10 years in federal prison per offense, with longer sentences for cases involving serious harm or death. Fines can reach millions of dollars.
Human Trafficking
Human trafficking involves the illegal transportation, harboring, or exploitation of individuals for labor or commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. These cases fall under federal jurisdiction when they cross state or international borders. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the FBI handle these investigations.
- Penalties: Convictions for human trafficking can result in up to life in prison, especially in cases involving minors or severe exploitation. Financial penalties can include millions of dollars in restitution and asset forfeiture under federal anti-trafficking laws and the RICO Act.
Immigration Offenses
Federal immigration laws make it illegal to enter the U.S. unlawfully, engage in immigration fraud, or transport undocumented individuals across borders. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) handle these cases.
- Penalties: Immigration-related offenses can lead to deportation, up to 10 years in prison, and permanent bans from re-entering the U.S.
Money Laundering
Money laundering involves concealing the origins of illegally obtained money through a series of transactions. These cases are often linked to drug trafficking, organized crime, or fraud.
- Penalties: A conviction can result in up to 20 years in prison, plus fines of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds. Under RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), federal prosecutors can seize assets used in money laundering operations.
Sex Crimes
Some sex crimes are prosecuted at the federal level, especially those involving interstate travel for illegal sexual criminal activity or offenses committed in federal facilities (e.g., prisons or military bases). Online solicitation of minors, child pornography, and sex trafficking also trigger federal jurisdiction.
- Penalties: Sentences vary based on the crime, but convictions often result in decades in federal prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
Tax Evasion
Tax evasion occurs when an individual or business deliberately avoids paying taxes owed to the government. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) investigates these offenses.
- Penalties: A conviction for tax evasion can result in up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for corporations, plus repayment of all owed taxes with interest.
Weapons Charges
Federal weapons charges often involve the illegal possession, trafficking, or use of firearms. Cases involving firearms near schools, airports, or federal facilities automatically fall under federal jurisdiction. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigates these offenses.
- Penalties: Depending on the offense, convictions can lead to 10+ years in prison, especially for felons in possession of firearms, illegal weapons trafficking, or firearms used in violent crimes.
White-Collar Crimes: Fraud, Embezzlement, and Insider Trading
White-collar crimes typically involve financial deception and are often charged under federal fraud statutes.
- Fraud – Includes wire fraud, mail fraud, and securities fraud. Convictions can lead to up to 30 years in prison and heavy fines.
- Embezzlement – Illegally taking funds from an employer or organization. Penalties vary based on the amount stolen but can reach 20 years in federal prison.
- Insider Trading – Using confidential financial information for stock market gains. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigates these crimes, and penalties can include prison sentences and millions in fines.
Why Federal Cases Are Different from State Cases
The federal criminal justice system is more complex, more resource-intensive, and often far less forgiving than state-level cases.
Jurisdiction and the Role of Federal Courts
State courts handle most local crimes, such as DUI, assault, or burglary, whereas federal courts prosecute offenses that involve federal laws, cross state lines, or occur on federal property.
Federal cases are handled in U.S. District Courts, with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, and IRS leading investigations. Unlike state prosecutors, federal prosecutors, known as Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs), often spend years building airtight cases before filing charges.
Mandatory Minimum Sentences and Harsh Penalties
Federal sentencing laws are generally stricter than state sentencing laws, especially for drug offenses, fraud, and violent crimes. Many federal crimes come with mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges have little discretion in reducing penalties.
For example:
- Drug trafficking convictions can carry a mandatory minimum of 5 to 10 years depending on the drug type and quantity.
- Federal fraud crimes like mail or wire fraud can lead to up to 30 years in prison with massive fines.
- Weapons charges, such as using a firearm during a crime, come with enhanced penalties that stack on top of other sentences.
Since federal sentences are governed by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, defendants often face lengthier prison terms than they would for the same offense in a state court.
Differences in Pretrial Detention, Discovery, and Plea Bargaining
- Pretrial Detention – In federal cases, pretrial release is much harder to obtain than in state court. Many federal charges presume detention, meaning defendants must prove they are not a flight risk or danger to the community to be released before trial.
- Discovery Rules – Federal discovery (the process of obtaining evidence from the prosecution) is more limited compared to state cases. Prosecutors are not required to turn over all evidence immediately and can withhold certain materials until trial.
- Plea Bargaining – Federal plea deals tend to be less flexible than state-level deals. The prosecution often only offers reduced sentences in exchange for full cooperation, and mandatory minimums limit a judge’s ability to approve lenient deals.
Because federal cases move quickly and carry severe consequences, working with our Dallas federal criminal defense attorney is imperative.
Call us today at (972) 528-0481 to discuss your federal charges and build a strong defense.
Stages of a Federal Criminal Case
Federal criminal cases follow a structured legal process, and each stage can significantly impact your outcome. Understanding these steps can help you prepare for what’s ahead.
- Investigation – Federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or IRS conduct thorough investigations, sometimes lasting months or years. If you suspect you’re under investigation, hiring our federal criminal defense attorney early can help protect your rights and possibly prevent charges.
- Charging decision – Prosecutors decide whether to file charges through a grand jury indictment or a direct charge. A grand jury reviews evidence in secret and issues an indictment if they believe probable cause exists, making this a critical moment in your case.
- Arrest and initial hearing – If charges are filed, federal agents will arrest the accused, and they must appear before a judge for an initial hearing. At this stage, the judge will inform the defendant of the charges and decide whether bail is an option.
- Arraignment – The defendant formally hears the charges and enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A not-guilty plea moves the case toward trial, while a guilty plea may lead to sentencing or plea negotiations.
- Pretrial – Both sides exchange evidence through discovery, and our experienced criminal defense lawyer may file legal motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge government tactics. Bail hearings may also occur, but federal courts are stricter about granting pretrial release.
- Plea bargaining – Many federal cases never go to trial because defendants accept plea agreements to reduce charges or sentencing. However, federal plea deals can be rigid, and prosecutors may demand cooperation in exchange for leniency.
- Trial – If no plea deal is reached, the case goes to trial before a judge or jury. Our defense attorney will cross-examine witnesses, challenge government evidence, and present arguments to create reasonable doubt in the prosecution’s case.
- Sentencing – If convicted, sentencing follows Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which often lead to harsh penalties. The judge considers the severity of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history before issuing a sentence.
- Appeals – Defendants have the right to appeal a conviction or sentence to a higher federal court. Appeals focus on legal errors, violations of constitutional rights, or mistakes in sentencing that may justify overturning the conviction or reducing penalties.
- Post-conviction relief – If appeals fail, defendants may pursue habeas corpus petitions or sentence modifications. This stage is complex, but we will explore alternative legal strategies to fight for your freedom.
How Our Dallas Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Will Help
Facing federal charges can be overwhelming and life-altering—but you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone.
A skilled federal criminal defense attorney from our law firm will provide critical legal support at every stage of your case, working to protect your rights, fight back against the prosecution, and seek the best possible outcome.
Here’s how our firm can help:
The moment you realize you’re under federal investigation, every action you take—or don’t take—can affect your case.
Federal agents like the FBI, DEA, or IRS often conduct extensive investigations before making an arrest, and they may try to question you or search your property.
Speaking to investigators without a lawyer can be a costly mistake. Even if you believe you have nothing to hide, anything you say can be twisted and used against you.
We intervene immediately to ensure you don’t unknowingly waive your rights or make statements that could damage your defense. By handling all communications with federal authorities, we protect you from self-incrimination and potential missteps that could strengthen the prosecution’s case.
Federal prosecutors do not file weak cases—by the time charges are brought, they often have substantial evidence against you. This makes a strong defense strategy essential.
Our team analyzes every detail of your case, from how the investigation was conducted to whether your constitutional rights were violated. We look for weaknesses in the government’s case, such as
- Illegally obtained evidence
- Unreliable witnesses
- Procedural errors
Whether through challenging the prosecution’s evidence, filing motions to dismiss charges, or negotiating for reduced penalties, we develop a defense tailored to your situation. Our goal is to weaken the government’s case and improve your chances of a favorable outcome—whether that means dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal.
In federal cases, plea deals are common, but they’re not always in your best interest. Federal prosecutors often offer deals with strict conditions, sometimes requiring you to testify against others or serve a lengthy sentence anyway.
We assess whether a plea deal is the best path forward based on the strength of the government’s evidence and the potential penalties you face. If negotiating a lesser charge or reduced sentence is in your best interest, we fight for terms that minimize your punishment and protect your future.
If going to trial is the better option, we build a strong defense, challenge evidence, cross-examine government witnesses, and present compelling arguments to create reasonable doubt in the jury’s mind.
Whether we negotiate or fight in court, our priority is always your best outcome.
A conviction in federal court doesn’t mean your fight is over. If you have been wrongfully convicted or received an excessive sentence, you have options for post-conviction relief.
We handle appeals, sentence reductions, and habeas corpus petitions, challenging errors made during your trial or sentencing. If your rights were violated, new evidence emerged, or sentencing guidelines were misapplied, we work to overturn convictions, reduce sentences, or seek a retrial.
Your future is at stake—but you don’t have to face federal charges alone.
Call us today at (972) 528-0481 to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.
Why Choose Our Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dallas?
When facing federal criminal charges, your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line. The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy have a proven track record of aggressively defending clients in complex criminal cases, securing dismissals and favorable outcomes when it matters most.
With over 35 years of experience, we have successfully defended clients against serious criminal charges, including felonies, drug crimes, and weapons offenses. Whether your case involves federal fraud, drug trafficking, or white-collar crime, we are prepared to build the strongest possible defense.
While many attorneys talk about their experience, our results speak for themselves. Some of our past case wins in high-stakes felony matters include:
- Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) – Dismissed, Dallas County (F-1425069)
- Criminal Mischief (Felony) – Dismissed, Dallas County (F16-14883)
- Theft (Felony) – Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor, Dallas County (F1245325-W)
- Aggravated Assault w/ Deadly Weapon – Dismissed, Dallas County (F1300346)
- Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) – Reduced to Misdemeanor, Dallas County (F1334337)
These successful dismissals and charge reductions demonstrate our ability to challenge the prosecution, weaken their case, and negotiate the best possible outcome for our clients—whether at the state or federal level.
Federal prosecutors do not bring weak cases—they often spend months or years building their case before filing charges. We take a customized approach to each case, analyzing every detail of the investigation, evidence, and potential constitutional violations.
Our team crafts strategic defenses that exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to give you the best chance of avoiding conviction or minimizing penalties.
Contact Our Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Dallas Today!
Federal criminal cases move swiftly, and the penalties can be severe—including lengthy prison sentences, massive fines, and asset forfeiture. The earlier you get an experienced defense lawyer involved, the stronger your defense will be.
- Call Us: (972) 528-0481
- Office Location: 15110 Dallas Pkwy #400, Dallas, TX 75248
Don’t wait—your future is on the line. Contact us today to start building your defense.
FAQs About Federal Criminal Defense in Dallas
What should I do if I’m under federal investigation?
If you believe you’re under federal investigation, do not speak to federal agents without a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you’re innocent. Contact our federal criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights, assess your legal risks, and develop a strategy to prevent charges.
Can I avoid charges if I cooperate with federal agents?
Cooperating with federal agents does not guarantee that charges will be dropped. In fact, speaking without legal counsel can strengthen the case against you. Before making any decisions, consult with our federal defense lawyer who can negotiate on your behalf and determine whether cooperation is truly in your best interest.
How are federal sentences determined?
Federal sentences are based on the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the offense level and criminal history of the defendant. Judges also weigh aggravating and mitigating factors, but many federal crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, limiting judicial discretion.
Do federal cases always go to trial?
No, most federal cases end in plea agreements rather than trials. However, plea deals are not always the best option, as they often involve severe penalties. Our federal defense attorney can assess your case, negotiate with prosecutors, and determine whether trial or a plea deal is the better path forward.