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Lafayette Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

Call Us | 318-377-1555

If you have been arrested for a federal crime in Lafayette, Louisiana, you may not know how to feel or what steps to take to minimize the consequences you may face. This may feel especially overwhelming if this is the first time you have been arrested or if you have been arrested mistakenly. How do you ensure you are represented fairly in the court system? What consequences might you face if you are convicted? How do you reduce your penalties?

If you have any of these questions or need additional information, our team at John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm may be able to help. We are highly experienced in criminal defense law and have represented defendants in numerous trials. Our team is dedicated to supporting clients through every step of the legal process. Please continue reading for our complete breakdown if you want to know more about what to do following a federal criminal arrest.

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What Are Examples of Federal Crimes in Lafayette?

Many types of crimes may be classified on a federal level. Federal crimes tend to be treated much more seriously than those committed on a state level. Some examples of federal crimes include but are not limited to:

Many white-collar crimes may also qualify as federal crimes. If you are unsure why your arrest falls under the category of a federal crime—or you want more information about what steps to take next—we recommend speaking with a Lafayette criminal defense lawyer. Your lawyer will likely have access to knowledge and resources that may help you.

What Are the Potential Consequences of Committing a Federal Crime in Lafayette?

Federal crime sentencing and punishments are generally handled differently than state-level ones. Depending on the crime and where the crime is committed, federal sentencing may be longer or shorter. However, federal sentencing is more likely to utilize mandatory-minimum penalties and sentencing guidelines than state punishments. Punishments for federal crimes may include the following:

Other penalties may also affect multiple areas of your life, including losing voting rights, difficulty finding a job, and loss of specific certifications. If you want to reduce these penalties, we strongly recommend speaking with a federal criminal defense attorney in Lafayette at your earliest convenience. Your lawyer may be able to assist you in reducing or even eliminating your charges.

Steps to Take After an Arrest for a Lafayette Federal Crime

You may not know what steps to take if you have been arrested for a federal crime in Lafayette. However, strategizing the best possible efforts may help you improve the likelihood of positive or more favorable results in your case. 

Avoid Discussing Your Case

If you are participating in the legal process as the defendant, avoid discussing your case with anyone. It’s important to refrain from discussing your case with close friends and family members, as well as avoid any posts on social media regarding it. The only person we recommend speaking with is a qualified federal criminal defense attorney, as you have the right to lawyer-client privilege and privacy.

Collect Evidence

If you can, we recommend gathering evidence related to your arrest and case. This may include witness statements, physical evidence, photographs, statements from expert witnesses, footage of the inciting incident, and written statements about the event. There may also be additional evidence that may apply.

Evidence may help accurately and effectively portray your case during court trials and other presentations. This may assist you in reducing your potential penalties. We recommend allowing a qualified federal criminal defense lawyer to assess your collected evidence for best results. Your lawyer may also help you gather additional evidence.

Speak With a Qualified Lawyer

A lawyer experienced in criminal defense may be a valuable asset during the legal process, especially if you want to reduce your penalties and gain favorable results. Your lawyer may assist you in several ways, including:

  • Legal knowledge
  • Negotiation skills
  • Handling insurance companies and other legal representatives
  • Minimizing or eliminating penalties
  • Strategizing the next best steps
  • Establishing a solid defense for your case
  • Referring you to helpful professionals
  • Providing you with valuable resources and information
  • Collecting and analyzing evidence
  • Joining or leading investigations
  • Reducing stress

We strongly recommend you avoid representing yourself during legal proceedings, as your lawyer is far more likely to help you receive a favorable outcome. You may risk making mistakes or worsening your odds of reduced penalties if you act independently. Please speak with a lawyer at your earliest convenience.

Protect Yourself With Criminal Defense Attorneys From John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm

If you have been arrested for a federal crime in Lafayette, our team at John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm may be able to offer some assistance. Our lawyers have extensive experience in federal and state criminal defense law, and we have helped numerous clients receive favorable results following their cases. Our team is dedicated to supporting our clients through every step of the legal process.

To discuss the details of your case and receive more helpful information, don’t hesitate to contact us at your earliest convenience. You can get in touch with our team by calling (318) 377-1555 or by completing our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you, learning about your case, and potentially aiding you in reaching positive results.