Austin Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Under Federal Investigation or Indicted in Austin?
Federal cases move fast—and the stakes are high. If the FBI, DEA, ATF, IRS‑CI, HSI, or a federal prosecutor has contacted you, talk to an Austin federal criminal defense attorney before you speak with agents. Our team includes former police officers who know how cases are built and how to fight them. Start with these quick resources: What to Do if You’re Charged with a Federal Crime and Know Your Rights (Video).
Why Federal Cases Are Different
Federal prosecutions use grand juries, extensive discovery, and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The government’s head start makes early defense critical—preserving evidence, limiting exposure, and shaping negotiations. To understand courtroom milestones, see What Happens When a Criminal Case Goes to Trial (process overview).
Our Federal Practice Areas
- White‑Collar & Financial Crimes: wire/mail fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, computer fraud, PPP/CARES Act cases — learn more about fraud defense strategies here: Austin Fraud Defense.
- Drug Trafficking & Conspiracy (21 U.S.C. §§ 841, 846): distribution, manufacturing, conspiracy allegations, “safety‑valve” and cooperation issues. See also: Drug Charges (Austin).
- Firearms Offenses (18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g), 924(c)): unlawful possession, firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking/violent crime. Related reading: Weapons Charges and Felons & Firearms in Texas.
- Money Laundering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1956, 1957) & Asset Forfeiture: tracing, structuring, restraint of assets needed for counsel, CAFRA claims.
- Public Corruption & Bribery and Honest‑Services Fraud.
- Cybercrime (18 U.S.C. § 1030) and Intellectual Property offenses.
- Child Exploitation / Pornography (18 U.S.C. §§ 2252, 2252A): defense requires proactive mitigation and strict evidence handling.
- Immigration Offenses (8 U.S.C. §§ 1324, 1326) and Document Fraud.
- Tax Crimes (26 U.S.C. § 7201 et seq.) and False Statements (18 U.S.C. § 1001).
How We Defend Federal Cases
- Pre‑Charge Intervention: engage with AUSAs, respond to target/subpoena letters, limit exposure, and preserve favorable evidence.
- Investigation & Motions: challenge searches, seizures, statements, and defective warrants; litigate suppression and dismissal.
- Negotiations: calibrated plea strategy, proffers when appropriate, charge bargaining, and loss/drug‑weight disputes.
- Trial‑Ready Approach: credibility attacks, expert witnesses, alternative causation, and tight jury instructions.
- Sentencing & Mitigation: guideline scoring, departures/variances, safety‑valve, acceptance, and individualized mitigation packages.
- Appeals & Post‑Conviction: preserved error review, 2255 motions, and collateral consequences counseling. For post‑case record relief, see our latest guides (e.g., expunction eligibility).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the “victim” or complainant drop a federal case?
No. In federal court, the U.S. Attorney’s Office controls charging decisions. Early advocacy can still influence outcomes through evidence challenges and negotiation.
How fast can I get out if I’m detained?
Release depends on the Bail Reform Act factors (risk of flight, danger). We prepare detention‑hearing packages and propose strict conditions. For local pretrial basics, see Travis County Jail Release Guide and Austin Jail Release Guide.
What should I do if agents contact me?
Exercise your right to remain silent and call us immediately. Watch our quick primer: Actions to Take if Charged with a Federal Crime.
Meet Your Team
Learn more about our attorneys and federal defense approach: Stephen T Bowling and David Thomas. We’re available 24/7 to take action.
Sworn to Protect Our
Client’s Liberty.
David is a miracle worker plain and simple.
From day 1 he and his staff worked tirelessly to resolve my next to impossible case. Due to COVID it took especially long to resolve, but they never gave up. He guided me on the best things to do in order to improve the outcome and I followed his advice to a T. From there he did his part and negotiated a complete dismissal. Each and every time I had a question or wanted an update he was quick to personally reply or call. I couldn’t recommend him more.
C.P. on Google Reviews
This Law Firm was absolutely incredible.
From the first day, David T gave me insight into what I should expect. He made the process clear and set the right expectations with me. I was in a mess, I had lost my CDL and my career, I was terrified of all the directions this could go but these guys gave me hope. I met Rafael during my court dates and he was so invested in getting me results. Because of them, my case was completely dismissed! Didn’t even get a traffic ticket! With what I had stacked against me, it was hard to see a way out but Hayden, Rafael, and David made it happen! They have very reasonable costs and even allowed me to split payments. If you need a solid defense, don’t look anywhere else. You will be in good hands!
H.Z. on Google Reviews
