Experienced Augusta Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Safeguards Your Rights

Georgia firm delivers strong defense against federal criminal charges

If you are convicted of a federal crime, the punishment can be severe. At Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm in Augusta, our criminal defense attorneys have extensive background arguing cases in the federal courts and achieving successful outcomes for Georgia clients accused of federal drug crimes, white collar offenses and other alleged wrongdoing. Regardless of the specific charge, we fight to protect the rights of individuals facing prosecution in U.S. District Courts.   

What is a federal crime?

Federal crimes are violations of the U.S. legal code, rather than a statute of Georgia or another state. These cases are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys and their assistants. Generally, federal criminal allegations involve one of the following:

• Fraud against federal agencies or systems
• Multi-state activity
• Misconduct on federal property
• Offenses against federal judges, officers or government officials
• Terrorism
• Immigration or customs violations

In Augusta, federal prosecutions are tried at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia. Our attorneys have significant federal court experience and will develop a strong defense in your misdemeanor or felony case.

Types of federal crimes

Types of offenses commonly prosecuted in federal court include the following:

• White collar offenses such as money laundering
• Bribery and public corruption charges
• High-level drug charges, such as trafficking
• Misconduct involving environmental harm
• Internet crimes, such as including online fraud and child pornography
• Violent offenses committed against federal officials or during a bank robbery

No matter whether what your case entails, we will carefully investigate the evidence against you and build an effective defense strategy.

Federal sentencing guidelines

The federal sentencing guidelines were developed to provide consistency and fairness in sentencing criminal defendants. The guidelines divide crimes into 43 levels of severity, with adjustments available based on a defendant’s criminal history, which is evaluated on a scale from one to six. For example, the sentencing table might show that a given crime has a seriousness level of 20, with the defendant’s criminal history rated as a 3. In this case, the guidelines would call for a prison sentence of between 41 and 51 months. While judges must consider these guidelines in sentencing, they are not bound to them. However, if they deviate, they must explain why in writing. In the event you are convicted of a federal crime, we will argue for the lowest sentence possible.

What is the legal process for federal crimes in Georgia?

The legal process for federal crimes involves multiple steps. While the following list is not all-inclusive, it highlights major parts of the process:

• Arrest
• Arraignment
• Pre-trial proceedings
• Plea bargaining
• Trial
• Sentencing
• Appeal

Our attorneys are highly familiar with the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure that govern federal criminal trials. We will ensure that your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.

Possible defense of federal crimes in Georgia

There are various possible defenses to federal crimes depending on the specific offense and the circumstances. We might be able to show that there is a lack of admissible evidence against you, that law enforcement acted improperly, that you were entrapped or that reasonable doubt about your guilt exists. Following a careful review of the case facts, we will advise you regarding available defenses.

Contact a knowledgeable federal criminal defense lawyer for a free initial consultation

Our federal criminal defense attorneys at Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm in Augusta work vigorously to protect the rights of clients from Richmond, Columbia and Burke counties, as well as other parts of Georgia. Please call our firm at 706-496-1616 or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation.