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I’ve Been Charged With a Federal Crime: What Now?

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The first thing you should know about federal crimes is that they are very serious and complex issues. You should not try to handle federal charges without consulting an attorney that is highly skilled in this area of the law. The second thing you should know about federal crimes is there are many steps involved in the process.

Steps Involved in the Federal Criminal Process

  1. Investigation

  2. Charging

  3. Initial Hearing/Arraignment

  4. Discovery

  5. Plea Bargaining

  6. Preliminary Hearing

  7. Pre-Trial Motions

  8. Trial

  9. Post-Trial Motions

  10. Sentencing

  11. Appeal

Charging

If you’ve been charged with a federal crime, the next step is to hire an attorney. The Principal Attorney, Joel DeFabio, at The Law Offices of Joel DeFabio has established himself as one of the country’s most preeminent criminal defense attorneys. Those who are indigent may choose to be represented by a public defender at no or low cost.

Next Steps

Either on the same day or the following day of arrest and charging, an initial hearing of your case will be held before a magistrate judge. It is at this time the judge will decide if you will be released or held in prison until the trial.

Oftentimes, defendants are allowed to be released from prison until their trial as long as bail requirements are met. Before the judge decides whether to grant bail, a hearing must be held in order to learn the following facts about you (the defendant):

  • How long you’ve lived in the area

  • If you have family nearby

  • If you have a prior criminal record

  • If you’ve threatened any witnesses in the case

In addition, your potential danger to the community is taken into the judge’s consideration. This is also the time in which you’ll be asked to plead guilty or not guilty to the charges.

If you’ve been charged with a federal crime in the Miami, Florida area, The Law Offices of Joel DeFabio are the best choice for your defense. With over 35 years of experience, Attorney Joel DeFabio has a proven track record of success.

Call The Law Offices of Joel DeFabio today at (305) 851-5581 to speak with an attorney about your potential case.

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