Most federal prosecutions begin with a Federal Grand Jury Indictment.  Occasionally, citizens receive "target letters " from the United States Attorney, indicating that they are the subject of a federal investigation.  Other times, law enforcement officers investigate citizens without their knowledge.  Morgan represents citizens and business entities in both pre-indictment and post-indictment phases of federal criminal prosecutions.

Upon  arrest, some citizens who meet certain qualifications are released from custody upon their written promise to reappear in court.  Others are detained, upon motion of the Government, without bond.  It is at Detention Hearings that  an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer can often times  be of the most service to citizens accused of federal crimes.  Once a decision is made by the Magistrate Judge to detain, that decision will not be disturbed, absent a successful appeal, without a strong showing of a material change in circumstances.  

Punishment of federal crimes is governed by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which are contained in a 1375 page book.   Guideline calculations govern the length and type of sentence citizens convicted of federal crimes are facing.  Some federal offenses require mandatory minimum sentences, although there are a few limited ways to avoid them.  Likewise, guideline  calculations may reflect that an active prison sentence is warranted, but there are a few limited ways to achieve a lower sentence or some form of probation.  

Finally, there are a number of collateral consequences to a federal conviction.  Morgan is able to discuss these and  other intricacies of the federal  law with you in a no obligation free initial consultation.  Please contact his office or submit the confidential client questionnaire,  should you need such advice.