Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Johnson County

Former Prosecutors Building Your Defense in Kansas

A federal criminal charge is one of the most serious accusations a person can face. Unlike state-level crimes, federal offenses are investigated by powerful agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF and are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office. 

The federal justice system operates under a different set of rules and often carries much more severe penalties, including lengthy mandatory minimum sentences. If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a federal crime in Johnson County, you are facing a difficult and complex legal battle. 

The federal government has immense resources and will aggressively pursue a conviction, which is why you need a defense team with a deep understanding of federal law and procedure. Our firm, Garretson & Toth, LLC, is dedicated to providing a robust defense for those accused of federal crimes. 

We understand the specific nuances of federal law and the local courts, and we are prepared to stand by your side. A skilled federal criminal defense attorney in Johnson County is not just an option; it is an absolute necessity to protect your future, your freedom, and your rights.

Don't risk prison time. Contact a Johnson County federal criminal defense lawyer to discuss your options. Call (913) 971-0296 or reach out online for a free consultation.

Understanding Federal Criminal Laws

Federal crimes are those that violate a law passed by the United States Congress and are prosecuted in federal court by an Assistant United States Attorney. This is a crucial distinction from state crimes, which violate Kansas law and are prosecuted in state court by a District Attorney. The laws governing federal crimes are found in Title 18 of the United States Code (U.S.C.) and other federal statutes. 

Federal cases are often complex and can involve legal and procedural rules that are very different from state cases. The federal sentencing guidelines are also very different from the Kansas sentencing guidelines and are often more punitive. A knowledgeable Johnson County federal criminal defense lawyer will meticulously analyze the specific statute under which you are charged to find any weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Common Federal Offenses

It is common for individuals to face multiple charges stemming from a single federal investigation. For example, a person accused of drug trafficking may also be charged with:

• Conspiracy: This is a very common charge in federal court, as it allows prosecutors to charge individuals who had any involvement in a drug-related scheme. Even a minor role, such as acting as a lookout or a driver, can lead to a conspiracy charge with the same severe penalties as the major players.
• Money Laundering: This involves concealing the source of illegally obtained funds.
• Firearms Offenses: These are often charged in conjunction with drug or violent crimes.
• White Collar Crimes: These include a variety of fraud offenses, such as bank fraud, wire fraud, and healthcare fraud.

When facing these multiple charges, it is vital to have a cohesive defense strategy. As a comprehensive federal criminal defense attorney in Johnson County, we are prepared to handle all related offenses and build a robust defense that addresses every aspect of your case.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Federal Crime Conviction

The federal sentencing guidelines, created by the United States Sentencing Commission, play a huge role in determining the penalty for a federal crime. The guidelines consider the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances to determine a recommended sentence range. 

The direct legal penalties for a federal crime conviction are steep and often include:

• Incarceration: Prison time, ranging from a few months for a misdemeanor to decades for a serious felony. Federal law has mandatory minimum sentences for many drug and firearm offenses.
• Fines: Fines can be substantial, often reaching into the thousands or millions of dollars.
• Forfeiture: Federal law allows for the forfeiture of property, including vehicles, homes, and other assets that were used in the commission of a crime.
• Probation and Supervised Release: A conviction will likely be followed by a period of supervised release, during which you must adhere to strict conditions. A violation of these terms can lead to reincarceration.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a federal crime can follow you for the rest of your life, making it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Our firm, Garretson & Toth, LLC, is dedicated to protecting you from these severe penalties and consequences. As a dedicated Johnson County federal criminal defense lawyer, we will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life, your family, and your future.

The Federal Criminal Defense Process in Kansas

Navigating the federal criminal justice system in Kansas for a criminal charge can be confusing and overwhelming. The process is different from state court, and it requires a defense team with a deep understanding of federal rules and procedures. 

Our firm provides a clear, step-by-step guide and will be with you at every stage, ensuring you understand your rights and your options:

• Investigation and Arrest: The process begins with a federal investigation and arrest. It's crucial to remain silent and request a lawyer immediately.
• Initial Appearance and Detention Hearing: After arrest, you'll have an initial appearance before a judge who will inform you of the charges. A detention hearing will be held to determine if you will be released on bond. We will represent you to argue for your release.
• Grand Jury Indictment: All federal felony cases must be brought by a grand jury indictment. We understand this process and the strategies to challenge it.
• Arraignment: This is your first appearance in federal district court, where you will be formally notified of the charges and enter a plea.
• Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: We will obtain and review all the evidence the prosecution intends to use against you. We will file pre-trial motions to challenge illegally obtained evidence or procedural errors.
• Plea Negotiations or Trial: We will engage in negotiations with the prosecutor to reach a favorable plea agreement, but we are always prepared to take your case to trial.
• Sentencing: If you are convicted, we will present mitigating evidence and arguments during sentencing to seek the most lenient sentence possible based on federal sentencing guidelines.

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