Federal Criminal Defense
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
A federal case is not a bigger version of a state case. The government investigates for months or years before charging, federal sentencing follows its own framework, and the resources arrayed against you are substantial. George G. Mgdesyan represents individuals and businesses at every stage of a federal matter - from the first contact with an agent through trial, sentencing, and appeal.
The arc of a federal case
Five stages where the right move changes everything
A federal matter moves through distinct stages, each with its own risks - and its own openings to intervene. Follow any stage to see what happens and what is at stake.
- 1
Investigation
Independent investigation and early intervention, often before charges are filed.
- 2
Indictment
Scrutiny of the charging decision, the evidence, and the government's theory.
- 3
Negotiation
Disciplined negotiation toward the most favorable lawful resolution available.
- 4
Trial
Trial-tested advocacy before judge and jury when a case must be fought.
- 5
Sentencing
Advocacy under the federal sentencing guidelines and 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a).
Why federal cases demand a different approach
Federal prosecutions are brought by United States Attorneys with the investigative backing of agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS Criminal Investigation, ATF, and Homeland Security Investigations. By the time charges are filed, prosecutors have often spent a year or more building the case through grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, financial records, and cooperating witnesses.
That head start matters. Decisions made early - whether to speak with agents, how to respond to a subpoena, whether to seek to present a defense before charging - can shape the entire matter. The goal at the outset is to understand the government's theory and protect your rights before positions harden.
- Charges are returned by a federal grand jury, not filed by a police officer
- Pretrial release is governed by the Bail Reform Act, with detention presumptions for some offenses
- Sentences are calculated under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and federal statutes
- Discovery often runs to hundreds of thousands of pages and electronic records
How the firm represents federal clients
Every federal matter begins with a careful review of what the government has, what it is missing, and where the case can be challenged. From there, the work is methodical: litigating motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, scrutinizing the indictment, testing the credibility of cooperating witnesses, and preparing each case as if it will be tried.
Where resolution short of trial serves the client, the firm negotiates from a position of preparation rather than pressure. Where trial is the right path, the case is built to be tried.
Stages of a federal case
Understanding the sequence helps you see where the opportunities to intervene are. Each stage below has its own page with a deeper explanation of what happens and what is at stake.
Prior results and recognitions do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
General information about federal criminal defense. It is not legal advice. Every case turns on its own facts.
How do I know if I am under federal investigation?
Should I talk to federal agents if they contact me?
What is the difference between a target, subject, and witness?
Are federal sentences really mandatory?
Facing a federal investigation or serious charges?
Speak directly with George G. Mgdesyan about your situation. Consultations are confidential, and the sooner you call, the more can often be done.