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Last Modified on Nov 24, 2025
Every year in the United States, government agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conduct thousands of criminal investigations throughout the country. Penalties for federal offenses are often severe, so it is vital to know what to do if you are being investigated for a federal crime in Houston, TX.
What To Do if You Are Being Investigated for a Federal Crime in Houston, TX
The team at Hochglaube & DeBorde, P.C. has extensive experience providing criminal defense representation for many types of criminal cases, including those filed in federal court. The federal criminal justice system tends to move more quickly than state criminal courts, and most federal agencies investigating crimes do not move to arrest a suspect until they are certain they have sufficient evidence to secure a conviction.
According to the United States Sentencing Commission, the different Districts of Texas have some of the highest federal criminal sentencing rates in the country. In 2024, the Northern District of Texas had 1,221 federal sentencings, the Southern District of Texas had 6,122 federal sentencings, the Western District of Texas had 8,035 federal sentencings, and the Eastern District of Texas had 1,134 federal sentencings.
The main difference between a federal criminal case and a state criminal case is that while a state criminal case is investigated and prosecuted by state authorities, a federal criminal case is opened by a federal agency such as the FBI, DEA, or other federal agencies. In 2024, the FBI reported more than 14 million criminal offenses throughout the US, and those that violated federal laws were prosecuted in federal criminal courts.
You may not know that you are being investigated for a federal crime in Houston. However, there are some clear warning signs that should compel you to hire a federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible:
- If you discover that any of your work colleagues are under federal criminal investigation, this could mean that you are also a person of interest in the case.
- Federal agents may contact you directly and ask to question you. Even if they claim that you are only considered a witness, this could be a diversionary tactic to extract information from you. Additionally, even if you are just a witness, statements you make could ultimately be used against you in the future.
- It’s possible that you will receive a target letter from a federal prosecutor directly informing you that you are under investigation for a federal crime.
- You might receive a subpoena requesting specific documentation and records or to provide grand jury testimony. Working with an attorney can not only help you prepare accordingly if you may be charged, but also ensure that anything you provide is complete and accurate.
- Authorities may approach you with an offer of leniency in exchange for your “cooperation.” This could be a veiled intimidation tactic, and they may be hoping that you incriminate yourself during questioning.
If any of these things happen, or if any federal agency arrests you, it is crucial that you hire a federal criminal defense lawyer at your first opportunity. A skilled defense attorney can help you understand what to expect as the case unfolds. If you are called as a witness in any federal case, your attorney can ensure your rights are protected during questioning and testimony.
Ultimately, facing criminal charges at the federal level can be terrifying, especially when you believe you have done nothing wrong. Working with an experienced Houston federal criminal defense attorney offers the greatest chance of reaching a positive resolution to this challenging experience. The team at Hochglaube & DeBorde, P.C., has the skill and experience you need on your side in this situation. Reach out to our firm today to learn more about our services.
FAQs
Q: What Should You Not Do if You Are Under Federal Investigation?
A: If you are under federal investigation, you should not speak with any authorities without a federal criminal defense lawyer present, tamper with or destroy anything that could be considered evidence, lie to any authorities, or discuss the situation in any public way, such as on social media. Any such actions could backfire tremendously, so it is vital to hire a federal criminal defense lawyer and follow their counsel as closely as possible.
Q: What Qualifies as a Federal Crime?
A: A federal crime is any violation of a US law. Most criminal offenses prosecuted throughout the US each year are prosecuted at the state level. However, when an individual has violated federal law or if their criminal activities have crossed state borders, it’s very likely that a federal agency such as the FBI, DEA, ICE, or DHS will handle the case.
Q: What Are My Rights After an Arrest for a Federal Crime?
A: After an arrest for a federal crime, you have the right to remain silent, and you have the right to legal representation. You should comply with arresting officers’ instructions during your arrest, but say nothing until you have a Houston federal criminal defense attorney representing you. The Fifth Amendment preserves your right to remain silent, and the Sixth Amendment ensures your right to legal representation.
Q: Why Should I Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A: You should hire a federal criminal defense lawyer to maximize your chance of reaching a positive outcome. It is crucial to hire an attorney with proven experience handling criminal cases at the federal level. Proceedings in a federal case unfold very differently from what you could expect in a state criminal case. Experienced federal criminal defense counsel is an invaluable asset, no matter what charges have been filed against you.
The team at Hochglaube & DeBorde, P.C. has years of experience representing clients charged with federal crimes. We understand that your situation may feel desperate, but we are confident we can guide you to a positive conclusion. You have very little time to react once you learn you are being investigated for a federal crime, so contact us today and schedule a free consultation with a Houston federal criminal defense attorney to learn how we can help.
