
Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are under investigation or facing federal charges, you are in a dangerous legal situation. The federal court system is manned by tough career prosecutors who are dedicated to achieving a conviction. The penalties imposed in federal offenses are severe and typically include fines and incarceration in federal prison.
To defend against a federal crime requires the help of a federal criminal defense attorney with extensive trial experience and who is familiar with navigating the federal court system. At Hickey & Chung, every case we represent is given the full resources of our firm. We take a team approach to help our clients defend against a range of federal criminal offenses, including but not limited to:
- White-collar crimes
- Security and investment fraud cases
- Tax offenses
- Title IX cases
- Whistleblower cases
- Healthcare fraud
- RICO and conspiracy offense
- Regulatory offenses
- Computer crimes
Why hire Hickey & Chung?
It is imperative that your lawyer is experienced in federal court, is a talented litigator, and is fully prepared to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecutor with compelling facts. The experience and dedication of your defense lawyer is a critical aspect in the outcome. Our legal team will work closely with you to develop a strong defense case, supported by professional resources such as PIs, financial consultants, tax advisors, and other experts. Our team of experts is available and ready to move into immediate action to assist in crafting your defense.
We protect the rights and freedoms of the people we serve.
Under the federal criminal justice system, very heavy penalties are imposed. A conviction may include fines, imprisonment, and permanent damage to your professional and personal reputation. If you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal offense, you have the right to remain silent, and we advise you to exercise this right, even if you are entirely innocent of all charges. Our federal criminal defense lawyer can protect you during questioning by investigators from any branch of the federal government.
Building your defense case
The first step in planning your defense strategy is an in-depth assessment of the situation and the evidence that has led to the charges against you. The federal prosecutor has the almost unlimited resources of federal agencies, including the DEA, IRS, FBI, and other agencies, often working together. Challenging these cases requires legal skill, access to some of the best professional resources, and a well-crafted defense strategy.
Exploring your legal options
Every case is unique. Once our legal team has assessed the facts in the case, we will review the legal options available to you. Under federal law, various options could benefit you:
- A petition to dismiss
- A proffer (in which you cooperate with the federal authorities)
- Plea agreement
- Jury trial
- If the verdict is unsatisfactory, an appeal
The federal court process, step by step.
The process in a federal crime moves through several phases, which are as follows:
- Investigation: The investigation phase may have taken months or even years as various federal investigative agencies seek evidence.
- Arrest: An arrest is performed by federal or state law enforcement.
- Indictment: The prosecutor presents the case to the grand jury. At this point, you are formally notified that you are being charged.
- Initial court appearance and arraignment: You will make your first appearance in front of the judge and jury, and at this appearance, you may be officially charged.
- Pretrial discovery and motions: If you entered a “not guilty” plea, the discovery phase begins in which the evidence in the case is reviewed, other evidence sought, and motions can be filed to suppress evidence or dismiss. Plea bargaining can occur during this phase.
- Trial: The trial process begins with jury selection, followed by the presentation of evidence by the prosecution and the defense.
- Verdict: The jury returns with a verdict, guilty or not guilty.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a verdict in cases of errors in the legal process or in court proceedings.
At Hickey & Chung, our attorneys stand by your side throughout every phase of the process, seeking all possible advantages. Whether you are entirely innocent or hold some responsibility for the offense, we will take any legal action that could be of benefit to you.
Legal representation for federal crimes
If you are under investigation or have been accused of a federal crime, contact Hickey & Chung to discuss your case. You can trust our legal team to provide you with defense counsel that can balance the tough odds you face in federal court, and is entirely dedicated to you, your future, and your freedom.