What is the difference between federal and state criminal charges?

Federal criminal charges are prosecuted by the United States government in federal district courts, while state charges are prosecuted in state courts. Federal crimes typically involve violations of federal law, crimes crossing state lines, offenses on federal property, or crimes involving federal agencies. Federal cases are investigated by agencies like the FBI, DEA, and ICE, and are prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys. Federal sentences are often more severe than state sentences for similar offenses.

Why do I need a specialized federal crimes defense attorney?

Federal criminal cases require attorneys with specific experience in federal courts, procedures, and sentencing guidelines. Federal courts have different rules of evidence and procedure than state courts. Federal sentencing guidelines are complex and often result in longer sentences. An experienced federal crimes attorney understands how to navigate federal agencies, negotiate with federal prosecutors, and present effective defenses in federal court. Jack B. Carroll is admitted to practice in multiple federal district courts including the Southern District of Texas.

What is a federal detention hearing?

A federal detention hearing determines whether a defendant will be released on bond or detained pending trial. Unlike state court, there is a presumption of detention for certain federal offenses, particularly sex crimes involving minors. At the hearing, the court considers factors such as flight risk, danger to the community, nature of the offense, and the defendant's ties to the community. An experienced federal defense attorney can present evidence and arguments to secure pretrial release when possible.

What are the penalties for federal sex crimes?

Federal sex crime penalties are extremely severe. Aggravated Sexual Abuse (18 U.S.C. § 2241) carries penalties up to life imprisonment. Sexual Abuse of a Minor (18 U.S.C. § 2243) carries up to 15 years. Sexual Exploitation of Children (18 U.S.C. § 2251) carries 15-30 years for a first offense. Child pornography offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences of 5-15 years. Offenses resulting in death can carry the death penalty or life imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.

Which federal courts is Jack B. Carroll admitted to practice in?

Jack B. Carroll is admitted to the Southern District of Texas (Houston) and has practiced pro hac vice in multiple federal courts including: Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn), Southern District of New York (New York), District of New Jersey (Newark), Middle District of Tennessee (Nashville), Northern District of Alabama (Birmingham), and Western District of Texas (Waco). This experience allows him to defend clients in federal courts throughout the country.

What should I do if I'm under federal investigation?

If you are under federal investigation or have been contacted by federal agents such as the FBI, you should immediately contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney before speaking with investigators. You have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning. Anything you say can be used against you in federal court. Early intervention by an experienced federal defense attorney can sometimes prevent charges from being filed or result in reduced charges.

Who are the attorneys at Jack B. Carroll & Associates?

Jack B. Carroll & Associates is led by Jack B. Carroll, a Texas Board Certified criminal law attorney with over 30 years of experience, and Phil Stephenson, a highly experienced and active associate attorney. Together they handle serious federal criminal charges including federal misdemeanor and felony cases. The firm provides confidential consultations and is available to discuss your case at (713) 228-4607.

Federal Crimes

Accused of a federal crime in Texas?

Contact Jack B. Carroll & Associates for the help you’ll need.

Jack B. Carroll & Associates is led by Texas Board Certified criminal law Attorney Jack B. Carroll and the highly experienced and active Phil Stephenson; the firm’s associate attorney. If you or someone close to you are saddled with serious federal criminal charges, whether misdemeanor or felony, we’re able to help. If you need to discuss a serious matter with a skilled attorney in confidence, contact Jack B. Carroll & Associates today.

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Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys

If you have been charged with a crime in Houston, contact Houston criminal defense attorney Jack B. Carroll today at (713) 228-4607 or request your free case evaluation.

100% confidential and no obligation.

Proven Results

Best Sex Crime Attorney in Houston and Texas

March 2024

Continuous sexual assault of a child. NOT GUILTY

351st Harris County, Texas, District Court.
Judge Natalia Cornelio

November 2024

Continuous sexual assault of a child. NOT GULITY

Hardin County, Texas, 356th District Court
Judge Steve Thomas presiding

November 2024

Indecency with a child by contact. NOT GUILTY

356th District Court, HARDIN COUNTY, Kountze,Texas. Judge Steve Thomas.

November 2024

Indecency with a child by contact, NOT GUILTY

179th District Court, Harris County, Houston, Texas

November 2024

Continuous sexual assault of a child, NOT GUILTY

179th District court, Harris County Texas, Judge Ana Martinez

February 2025

Aggravated sexual assault/child, Hung jury, cased dismissed

488th District court, Harris County, Houston, Texas

February 2025

Indecency w/child by contact, Hung Jury, case dismissed

488th District Court, Harris County Houston, Texas

August 2024

Aggravated assault deadly weapon, NOT GUILTY

25th District Court, Columbus, Colorado County, Texas

Federal Crimes Attorney

Accused of a federal crime in Texas?

Contact Jack B. Carroll & Associates for the help you’ll need.

Free Confidential Consultation

Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys

Best Sex Crime Attorney in Houston and Texas

Continuous sexual assault of a child. NOT GUILTY

Continuous sexual assault of a child. NOT GULITY

Indecency with a child by contact. NOT GUILTY

Indecency with a child by contact, NOT GUILTY

Continuous sexual assault of a child, NOT GUILTY

Aggravated sexual assault/child, Hung jury, cased dismissed

Indecency w/child by contact, Hung Jury, case dismissed

Aggravated assault deadly weapon, NOT GUILTY

Federal Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Sexual Abuse of a Minor or Ward

Offenses Resulting in Death

Sexual Abuse

Aggravated Sexual Abuse

Female Genital Mutilation

Abusive Sexual Contact

Sexual Exploitation of Children

Selling or Buying of Children

Activities Related to Material Involving Sexual Exploitation of Minors

Production of Sexually Explicit Depictions of a Minor for Import to the United States

Certain Activities Relating to Material Constituting or Containing Child Pornography