Beaumont Federal Crime Lawyer

Beaumont Federal Crime Attorney

Finding yourself being charged with a federal crime can feel like your life is falling apart. Federal charges can impact many areas of your life and affect your reputation throughout the community. A Beaumont federal crime lawyer understands the lasting effects a federal crime charge can have on your life and can guide you through the legal process with compassion.

At Renick Law Firm, PLLC, we understand that all situations are unique. Our skilled attorney, Scott Renick, is a former prosecutor who has dedicated his time to helping people navigate federal litigation. Located directly in Beaumont, our firm is ready to hear your case and advocate for your right to trial by jury.

Federal Charges in Beaumont

Federal crimes are violations of the United States laws and are prosecuted by the federal government. Crimes are often investigated by federal agencies like the FBI or the CIA. Federal crimes often carry heavier penalties than state crimes. It is important to understand how federal laws and court procedures work if you are facing charges. Types of federal crimes include:

• Fraud. This is intentional deception against someone in order to receive personal or financial gains. Fraud has many different forms and can have financial and legal implications for the victims. Fraud includes financial fraud such as Ponzi schemes, identity theft, insurance fraud, and tax fraud.
• Embezzlement. This occurs when someone entrusts another party with their funds, and the funds are used for the other party’s own gain. This type of theft involves a breach of trust, such as a financial advisor misusing their client’s funds.
• RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations). These violations are crimes that involve an established pattern of illegal activity. Crimes can range from drug trafficking to illegal gambling.
• Murder. It was reported by the FBI in 2024 that, on average, a murder occurred every 31.1 minutes in the United States.
• Terrorism and acts of treason against the federal government. This can include crimes that target federal officials or government-owned property.
• Immigration violations. These are actions that go against legal entry, staying, or working in the United States. Common violations are overstaying a visa or unauthorized employment.

In Beaumont, federal cases are usually heard at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. Having local representation that is familiar with the local culture and nuances can really help you during litigation. Therefore, it is imperative that you hire a federal crime lawyer from Beaumont.

Penalties for Federal Crimes

Federal sentencing and penalties can be complex; many federal offenses are subject to different rules when it comes to sentencing. Punishments can be more severe for those with a past criminal history. Punishments for those convicted of a federal crime include:

• Imprisonment. Incarceration time varies based on the severity of the crime committed.
• Fines. These are typically imposed in addition to other penalties. Fines are often larger for those who were involved in financial fraud or federal violations.
• Probation. Probation may be granted as an alternative to imprisonment. If probation is granted, there will be court-mandated requirements such as drug testing and check-ins with a probation officer.
• Restitution. Restitution may be ordered to be paid to the victim if the crime committed resulted in damages to them. The goal of restitution is to get the victim back to where they were financially prior to the crime being committed against them.

In 2024, over 14 million criminal offenses were reported to the FBI. If this involves you, it is important to be proactive and hire a federal crime lawyer right away. The attorneys at Renick Law Firm, PLLC, are committed to providing you with compassionate representation. Our office can act swiftly to challenge evidence and negotiate with federal prosecutors to reduce or dismiss the charges being brought against you.

FAQs

What Is Considered a Federal Crime in Texas?

Federal crimes are crimes that are in violation of a United States law. These crimes are investigated by federal agencies and prosecuted by the federal government. Common examples of federal crimes in Texas are: drug trafficking across state lines, white-collar crimes, immigration crimes, etc.

Any offense that crosses state lines becomes federal. This commonly includes kidnapping, counterfeiting, and drug smuggling. Multiple federal crimes are reported every day, but federal arrests have seen an overall decrease of 3% in 2023.

What Should I Do if I Am Under Investigation for a Federal Crime?

If you find yourself under investigation for a federal crime, you should contact a lawyer immediately. A skilled attorney will guide you on how to respond to agents and be able to create a defense strategy that works for your case. Only your lawyer should speak on your behalf. Even if you believe you are innocent, anything you say can be misinterpreted or used against you.

What Should I Expect During the Federal Criminal Process?

In Texas, the federal criminal process starts with an investigation and arrest once enough evidence has been gathered. After arrest, you will appear in front of a federal magistrate judge for arraignment. The judge will review the charges being brought against you and your rights. Most federal cases end with a plea agreement, and your attorney will negotiate this on your behalf. If no plea agreement is reached, then your case will proceed to trial by jury.

Do Federal Cases Ever Get Dropped?

It is very rare that federal cases are dropped, but it can happen. Prior to trial, a case can be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence, your constitutional rights were violated (illegal searches), or if there is a lack of jurisdiction for your case. These dismissals will be done with the aid of your lawyer, but a judge can also dismiss a case with the defendant’s consent.

Hire a Federal Crime Lawyer

Our attorneys at Renick Law Firm, PLLC, know how overwhelming it can be to have federal charges brought against you. Our team is led by a former prosecutor who understands the tactics that will be used against you and can craft a personalized strategy for you. We understand the lasting implications these charges can have on your life.

With the help of our compassionate team, you can lessen those implications and let you move forward. We are ready to help you. Contact us today to get started.