Plano Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
Federal criminal charges can be overwhelming. Federal investigations and prosecutions are serious matters, often involving complex laws, aggressive government attorneys, and the potential for severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and significant fines. Whether you’ve been indicted, received a target letter, or suspect you’re under investigation, your next steps will have a substantial impact on your case.
The Plano federal criminal attorneys at Broden & Mickelsen bring decades of experience to each of our federal criminal cases. We will fight hard to protect your legal rights and minimize the impact the charges will have on your life, whether the case involves fraud, drug crimes, violent crimes, cybercrime, or another federal offense.
Our deep understanding of federal procedures and aggressive defensive approaches have yielded a long track record of successful outcomes, and we want to add your case to that list.
If you’re facing federal charges, contact us today for a free initial consultation to learn how a Plano criminal defense lawyer from our firm can help.
How Our Experienced Plano Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help You
When it comes to federal criminal defense in Plano, you need a legal team that understands how to navigate the high stakes and intense pressure of the federal system. Broden & Mickelsen strategically guides clients through every phase, from pre-indictment investigations to trial, sentencing, appeal, and post-conviction relief.
Whether you’re facing federal criminal charges or responding to a government inquiry, our approach can make a critical difference.
Our attorneys are board-certified specialists in both criminal law and criminal appellate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization—an honor held by only a small percentage of attorneys statewide. With more than 60 years of combined legal experience handling federal and state cases at trial, on appeal, and in post-conviction relief, we provide clients with comprehensive, high-level representation tailored for complex federal criminal cases.
Our seasoned criminal defense lawyers bring a hands-on, team-based approach to protecting your rights and your future. We offer:
- Pre-indictment counsel and grand jury representation
- Independent investigation and legal motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
- Negotiation for charge reductions or dismissals
- Persuasive sentencing-mitigation strategies
The defense of federal crimes requires immediate action and skilled legal representation. When you work with Broden & Mickelsen, you’ll get a Plano federal criminal defense lawyer fighting hard to secure the best outcome possible.
One client raved, “I appreciate [their] honesty, diligence, professionalism and…knowledge of the law…We won the case and…are grateful.”
Common Federal Charges Our Experienced Attorneys Handle in Plano, TX
Our law firm defends clients against a wide range of serious federal charges, each carrying the potential for long prison sentences and lasting consequences. Here are some of the most common types of federal criminal charges we defend:
- White-collar crimes: We represent clients accused of wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud, and other complex financial offenses.
- Drug trafficking and conspiracy: Our firm defends clients charged with large-scale drug operations and conspiracy-related offenses under federal drug statutes.
- Healthcare and insurance fraud: We handle allegations involving false billing, kickback schemes, and fraudulent claims submitted to government healthcare programs.
- Cybercrimes and computer intrusion: Our attorneys represent clients facing charges related to hacking, identity theft, and other illegal activity involving digital systems and networks.
- Child exploitation and child pornography offenses: We provide strategic defense in high-stakes cases involving the possession, distribution, or production of illegal content.
- Firearms violations: Our firm defends against charges involving unlawful possession, trafficking, or use of firearms under federal law.
- Public corruption and bribery: We represent government officials and private citizens accused of bribery, kickbacks, and abuse of public office.
- Tax evasion and tax-related offenses: We handle investigations and charges involving underreporting of income, fraudulent deductions, and other IRS-related violations.
If you’re unsure whether we can represent your case, contact us today to speak with an experienced Plano criminal defense attorney. You can discuss your particular situation during a free consultation.
What Makes Federal Cases in Plano Different from State Charges?
Federal prosecutions bring a level of scrutiny and firepower rarely seen in state court. Investigations are led by well-funded federal law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and IRS. Each has broad subpoena power and seasoned agents who may spend months—sometimes years—building a case before an arrest is ever made.
If there is a criminal conviction in federal court, defendants face the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and mandatory minimums that can push penalties far beyond punishments for the same conduct under state law.
The process itself is often faster and less forgiving. The Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure impose strict discovery deadlines, while federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Texas handle only complex federal criminal cases. They have massive resources and may pursue parallel civil-asset-forfeiture actions designed to seize property before a conviction is even made.
Retaining experienced Plano federal criminal attorneys at the first hint of a federal investigation can make or break your case. Early legal intervention from a skilled criminal defense attorney is key to pursuing a favorable outcome in your case.
What to Expect After a Federal Arrest in Plano
After your arrest, your first legal step is your initial appearance at the federal courthouse. You’ll be informed of the charges and may face a detention hearing to determine whether you’ll be released. If you’re indicted by a grand jury, the prosecution must provide discovery materials so your defense team can review the evidence and prepare your case. From there, many cases enter a plea negotiation phase, though some proceed to trial.
If convicted, your sentencing takes place before a federal judge. After sentencing, you may have the right to file a direct appeal or pursue post-conviction relief through a § 2255 motion.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Federal Criminal Lawyer?
To be board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an attorney must pass a rigorous exam, undergo peer review, and meet strict continuing education standards. Fewer than 4% of Texas attorneys achieve this designation, demonstrating a high level of skill in complex federal criminal cases and appellate matters.
Criminal Defense FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions we receive:
Q: Do I need a lawyer if I haven’t been charged yet but am under investigation?
A: Yes—early intervention by a Plano federal criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights, control the flow of information, and, in some cases, prevent charges from being filed at all.
Q: What should I do if federal agents want to question me?
Do not speak to federal agents without legal counsel present. Politely decline and contact an experienced Plano federal criminal defense lawyer.
Q: How long do federal criminal cases in Plano typically take?
Federal cases can move quickly once charges are filed, but timelines vary. Some cases are resolved within a few months through plea negotiations, while others can take a year or longer.
Contact Our Plano Federal Defense Lawyers at Broden & Mickelsen
Don’t face federal criminal charges alone. Instead, reach out to Broden & Mickelsen today to learn more about your legal options from a board-certified criminal defense lawyer in Texas.