Houston Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Federal charges are the most serious in the American legal system. Federal prosecutors have nearly unlimited resources. Sara Roque levels the playing field with aggressive federal defense.
Federal drug charges
DEA, FBI, and US Marshals investigate federal drug cases. Mandatory minimums make these devastating without aggressive defense.
Federal fraud
Bank fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud — federal prosecutors pursue these aggressively with forensic accountants and extensive resources.
Federal firearms offenses
Illegal possession, trafficking, felon in possession — federal penalties far exceed state charges for the same conduct.
Immigration crimes
Human smuggling, document fraud, illegal reentry — federal immigration crimes carry serious consequences.
Cybercrime
Computer fraud, identity theft, online fraud — increasingly prosecuted at the federal level with technical expertise.
RICO & conspiracy
Federal conspiracy charges can sweep up people with minimal involvement. Sara fights overreach and broad charging tactics.
FEDERAL VS. STATE
Why Federal Charges Are Fundamentally Different
Federal prosecutors have the full resources of the US government — FBI agents, forensic accountants, technical experts — and they typically only charge when they believe they will win. The conviction rate in federal court exceeds 93%.
Sentencing guidelines
Federal sentences are governed by mandatory guidelines. Sara’s strategy focuses on reducing guideline exposure and avoiding mandatory minimums.
Investigation phase
Federal cases are often investigated for months or years before an arrest. If you’re under investigation — before charges — calling Sara immediately can change outcomes.
Plea negotiations
Federal plea agreements are complex. Sara negotiates cooperation agreements, safety valve provisions, and downward departures with full knowledge of federal sentencing law.
No attorney fees until we win. If we don’t win, you pay nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Federal cases in Houston are handled in the Southern District of Texas — United States District Court, Houston Division. Sara is experienced in this court.
Federal law requires minimum prison sentences for certain offenses regardless of individual circumstances. Drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and certain fraud crimes have mandatory minimums. Sara’s strategy always focuses on avoiding these.
Yes. Double jeopardy doesn’t apply between state and federal prosecutions. This is called “dual sovereignty.” Sara coordinates defense strategy across both proceedings.
A grand jury subpoena requires you to testify or produce documents. You have rights — including the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Call Sara immediately before responding to any subpoena.
Federal investigations can take months or years. The FBI may have been watching you long before you know. If you suspect you’re under investigation, earlier is always better.
Cooperating with federal prosecutors — providing information about others — can result in significant sentence reductions. Sara advises carefully on whether cooperation is strategically advisable in your case.
Generally yes. Federal sentencing guidelines are strict, federal prisons have no parole, and you must serve at least 85% of your sentence. This makes fighting federal charges even more critical.
Bail (called “pretrial release” in federal court) is determined at a detention hearing. Sara fights for your release arguing factors including ties to the community, lack of flight risk, and non-danger to the community.
Free Case Evaluation
We respond in minutes. No obligation.
Leave a Reply