Last Updated on Tuesday, 2 August 2011 09:15 Written by rcwhitelaw Friday, 29 July 2011 02:13

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Federal criminal cases are those that were typically investigated by federal agencies, including the FBI, DEA, Customs, Treasury, and other federal agencies. Sometimes state and local agencies also file charges in federal court if the offenses involve large quantities of drugs, weapons, money or other contraband. The federal government has more resources to prosecute cases, including special units to prosecute drugs, fraud, and violent crimes. While the state and local government also have special units, they have fewer prosecutors with larger case loads. Local law enforcement agencies do not have nearly as many resources to complete complicated investigations with as much thoroughness as federal law enforcement agencies. For the most part, it is definitely in a criminal defendant’s interest to be prosecuted in state, rather than federal court. The state of Texas’ sentencing system has more flexibility in terms of alternative sentencing options than the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are typically strictly employed in federal court.

If you are charged with a state criminal offense, you will be prosecuted by the State of Texas. If you are charged with a Federal offense, you will be prosecuted by the United States government. In rare cases you may be charged with violating both Federal and State laws, and be prosecuted by both State and Federal authorities. Not every lawyer is either qualified or willing to practice in federal court. Many would say that federal court practice is much more complicated and challenging. If you or a loved one have a criminal case pending in federal court or are being investigated by a federal law enforcement agency, it is very important that the lawyer you select have the ability to effectively practice in federal court. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Roderick C. White are both experienced and successful in federal criminal defense. Please review “Results” page for a brief description of some of our recent federal court successes.