Federal Crime
Des Moines Federal Criminal Case Legal Help
In addition to his statewide criminal defense practice Mr. Rouse has defended many federal cases in both Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa. He has also handled the appeals of federal criminal cases to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.
THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FEDERAL AND STATE CRIMINAL CASES IN IOWA
The federal trial system is different from the state criminal system. Many of the discovery techniques available in state courts, such as the taking of depositions of government witnesses before trial, are not permitted in the federal criminal system, and the process for selecting a jury is different as well.
FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES
Federal sentencing procedures also differ from those in state court. Federal sentences are heavily influenced by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines themselves are very complicated, and recent United States Supreme Court decisions in some ways have further complicated how those guidelines are to be applied.
A good understanding of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines is necessary when negotiating potential plea bargains with the government, formulating a Letter of Objections, and when arguing a sentence regardless of whether a plea bargain is reached.
If you are sentenced to federal prison, there is no parole as there is in state court. Other than a small reduction in the total sentence which can be obtained for good behavior while incarcerated, you will serve the complete sentence imposed, which will be followed by a period of supervised release.
Any federal investigation, and certainly any federal criminal charge, needs to be taken very seriously and you should immediately obtain the serves of an attorney who is experienced in federal criminal defense.
A MESSAGE FROM WARD ROUSE, DES MOINES CRIMINAL LAWYER
I approach every case with the intent to get the best results for my clients. If you or a loved one is being investigated by federal authorities, or has been charged with a federal crime, please feel free to call or email me. Consultations are free 515-379-8303.
