Federal court does not work like state court
A federal case almost never starts with an arrest. It starts long before — with FBI, DEA, HSI, or IRS agents investigating quietly, sometimes for years, before you even know you're a target. By the time a grand jury returns an indictment, the U.S. Attorney's Office has already built most of its case.
The federal system also punishes harder. The federal sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimums leave little room, and the vast majority of federal cases end in a guilty plea. That is why the defense starts with understanding exactly where in the investigation you stand.
The most valuable moment in a federal case is usually before charges exist. If you've received a target letter, a grand jury subpoena, or a visit from an agent, what you do in the next few days can change everything. Don't talk to anyone without a lawyer.
How I defend federal cases
I spent four years as a prosecutor learning to investigate and build cases. Today I'm a CJA panel attorney, appointed by the federal judges of the Southern District of Florida to defend in their courts. That combination lets me:
- Step in before the indictment. While an investigation is still open, it's sometimes possible to influence whether charges are filed — and which ones.
- Attack how the evidence was obtained. Constitutional protections apply the same in federal court; illegal searches and wiretaps can be suppressed.
- Negotiate with the federal prosecutors (AUSAs). I know how they think and what they value when resolving a case.
- Fight the sentence. The federal guidelines are complex. The right calculation, reductions, the "safety valve," and substantial assistance can mean years of difference.
Federal cases I handle
- Health care fraud (executives, clinics, and medical professionals)
- Wire fraud and bank fraud
- Fraudulent federal loans, including PPP and SBA
- Drug trafficking and drug conspiracy
- Money laundering
- Federal firearm charges
- Immigration offenses
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I’m the target of a federal investigation?
Some signs are a target letter, a grand jury subpoena, a visit from federal agents, or people close to you being questioned. If you notice any of these, it’s wise to consult a lawyer immediately, before talking to anyone.
What is a target letter?
It’s a notice from the U.S. Attorney’s Office that you are the target of a grand jury investigation. It isn’t an indictment, but it’s a serious sign that you should act and get representation as soon as possible.
Do federal cases have bail?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. In federal court there’s a detention hearing where the judge decides whether to release you and under what conditions. For certain charges there’s a presumption in favor of detention, which makes that hearing decisive.
What are the federal sentencing guidelines?
They’re a calculation system that guides the sentence based on the offense and your record. Although they’re advisory today, they heavily influence the sentence. A correct calculation and the right arguments can significantly reduce the time.
Should I talk to agents if they come looking for me?
Not without a lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and to have representation. Talking without preparation, even just to ‘clear things up,’ usually hurts more than it helps.