You may or may not have known that you were under investigation for a federal crime. If you do know that you are being investigated, speak with an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer at Marcilliat & Mills PLLC, before speaking with investigators or handing over documents. What you say and what you disclose before being arrested may come back to haunt you once federal criminal charges are filed.
Multiple government agencies have the authority to arrest individuals suspected of committing a federal offense. Most people think of the FBI, but the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Treasury, and Secret Service are also among the government agencies that may show up at your home or business with a warrant for your arrest.
When you have only one call to make, make it to Marcilliat & Mills PLLC. Our Wilmington federal criminal defense attorneys will work to protect your future from the moment you contact us. We understand that what may seem like a simple question or request for information can be harmful to your own defense. Our attorneys understand both the federal and the North Carolina criminal process and can answer your questions and protect your rights.
What Is a Federal Indictment?
An indictment is the formal charging document for federal crimes. A grand jury will review the evidence the federal prosecutor has gathered against you and will decide if there is enough information for charges to be filed against you.
Once charges are filed, you will be arrested. Your first appearance after an arrest in connection with a federal crime is a bail hearing. There can sometimes be a presumption against releasing certain people charged with a federal crime on bail prior to trial, but a skilled federal criminal defense attorney can evaluate your situation and make a case to the judge as to why you should be free and allowed to participate in your own defense.
After Indictment and Arrest Comes Arraignment
At the arraignment, you will be read about the charges the government is bringing against you. You will have the option to enter a plea of:
- Guilty
- Not guilty
- No contest
The government must bring you to trial within 70 days under the Federal Speedy Trials Act. Whether a speedy trial is in your best interest or more time is needed to fully investigate and develop a defense strategy is something to discuss with your federal criminal defense attorney.
Experience Counts in Federal Court. Call Marcilliat & Mills PLLC
Our federal criminal defense attorneys are here to answer your questions and develop a strong defense strategy to fight the charges you or a loved one face. Often with federal crimes, the accused may not be able to contact us directly. If that is the case, we welcome calls from family members looking for experienced legal representation for a loved one. Contact us online or call our Wilmington office to schedule a free consultation with an experienced federal crimes defense attorney today.
U.S. vs. J.R.
Charge: Mail Fraud (9 Counts), Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud
Facing: Three years in prison
Result: One year, One day
Our client was convicted of nine counts of mail fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. The government alleged that our client fraudulently obtained more than $115,000 from her former employer. At the sentencing hearing, the Judge granted our motion for a downward departure, sentencing our client to one year and one day. The government had asked the judge to sentence our client to several years.