In Franklin County, IL, a federal felony lawyer represents individuals accused of serious crimes in U.S. District Court. Federal prosecutors—not local or state authorities—handle these complex cases, which often involve serious consequences and long prison terms.
Charged with a federal offense in Franklin County, IL? You need a lawyer who understands how to navigate the federal court system from the start. From East St. Louis to Carbondale and everywhere in between, Combs Waterkotte helps clients fight back against life-changing allegations, build the strongest possible defense, get the best possible outcome, and help you move on with your life.
Quick Take: What to Expect From This Page on Federal Felony Charges in Franklin County, IL
- Federal felonies are serious crimes prosecuted by the U.S. government, not local authorities — and they carry high stakes, long prison terms, and complex rules.
- They’re handled in U.S. District Court, often after an investigation by agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF.
- We’ll cover how federal charges are brought, how bail is decided, how sentencing works — and why having the right legal strategy is crucial.
- You’ll learn the top defense strategies, what federal lawyers do, and how to defend yourself in the Southern Illinois court system.
- If you’re facing charges, this page will help you understand the process, your options, and how to protect your future.
What Counts as a Federal Felony?
A federal felony is a serious crime that violates U.S. law — not just state law. They’re prosecuted by the U.S. government in District Court, not by local or county authorities. Convictions can lead to long prison sentences — sometimes stretching into decades.
What Turns a State Crime Into a Federal One?
What makes it “federal” instead of “state” usually comes down to one of these things:
- The crime crossed state lines
- The incident occurred on federal land, such as a military base or post office
- Federal agents played a role in the case, including agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF
- It involved an offense listed under federal criminal statutes
How Does the Federal System Classify Felonies
Federal felonies are sorted into five classes:
| Class | Sentencing Range |
|---|---|
| Class A | Life imprisonment or death |
| Class B | 25 years or more |
| Class C | 10 to 25 years |
| Class D | 5 to 10 years |
| Class E | 1 to 5 years |
The source of these classifications is 18 U.S.C. § 3559, though your final sentence will depend on factors like the charge, your past record, and how sentencing guidelines are applied.
Federal Felony Charges We Commonly Handle in Franklin County, IL
These cases vary widely, but every federal felony charge can lead to severe penalties. Here are some of the most common offenses — along with examples and potential penalties under federal law:
| Charge Type | Examples | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Offenses | Trafficking, manufacturing, conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute | 10 years to life (21 U.S.C. §841) |
| White-Collar Crimes | Wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, tax evasion, embezzlement | Up to 30 years (18 U.S.C. §1344) |
| Firearms Offenses | Felon in possession, illegal sale, straw purchase, firearm during a felony | 5–10 years, plus enhancements (18 U.S.C. §922 & §924) |
| Cyber & Internet Crimes | Identity theft, child pornography, hacking, cryptocurrency fraud | 5 to 30 years depending on offense |
| Conspiracy & RICO | Drug conspiracies, racketeering, gang activity | 20 years to life (18 U.S.C. §1962) |
| Immigration Offenses | Alien smuggling, illegal reentry, visa fraud | Up to 10 years (8 U.S.C. §1324 & §1326) |
| Public Corruption | Bribery, theft of federal funds, election fraud | Up to 20 years (18 U.S.C. §201 & §666) |
| Violent Crimes | Kidnapping, carjacking, crimes on federal property | 15 years to life (18 U.S.C. §1201, §2119) |
The Federal Case Process After You’re Charged in Franklin County, IL
The federal justice system follows a defined series of steps. If you’ve been charged — or think you’re under investigation — knowing what’s coming can help you prepare and avoid costly mistakes.
These are the standard steps in a typical federal felony case:
1. Investigation
Federal cases usually start when agencies such as the FBI or IRS investigate suspected crimes. It’s common not to know you’re being investigated right away. If you receive a target letter or subpoena, take it seriously. It likely means charges are coming.
2. Indictmen
To move forward, federal prosecutors typically bring the case before a grand jury. They secretly review the government’s evidence and vote on whether formal charges are warranted. An indictment means federal charges are now formally filed and the legal battle begins.
3. Arrest and Detention Hearing
After the indictment, you’ll be arrested or ordered to appear in court. The judge will decide at your detention hearing if you can be released or must stay in jail. Federal judges are more cautious with bond, weighing public safety and whether you might flee.
4. Pre-Trial Motions and Negotiations
Your defense lawyer can challenge the charges or try to suppress certain evidence before trial. The government may also extend a plea deal during this phase. Even if your case doesn’t go to trial, you need leverage to secure the best possible plea.
5. Trial
If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial in U.S. District Court. Prosecutors in federal court are thorough, but they must still prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your lawyer must be ready with a full defense strategy, expert witnesses, and cross-examination plans.
6. Sentencing
After a conviction or guilty plea, the next step is a formal sentencing hearing. Federal sentencing guidelines are strict and complex. A skilled attorney can argue for a lower sentence using factors like cooperation, character evidence, and lack of prior convictions.
7. Appeals (if needed)
If the court made mistakes in your case, your lawyer may file an appeal to seek review. Appellate cases are difficult but can lead to new outcomes or reduced sentences if successful.
Will I Go to Prison for a Federal Felony Conviction in Franklin County, IL?
A conviction for a federal felony usually results in prison time. The reason is simple: federal laws are tougher, and many crimes carry mandatory minimums the judge must follow.
Still, not all federal felony convictions lead directly to incarceration. Whether you go to prison depends on several important factors:
- The charge — Some crimes carry harsher minimums (like drug trafficking or firearms offenses)
- Your criminal history — Those with no prior record may be eligible for lighter penalties
- Whether you go to trial or plead guilty — Accepting a plea bargain can result in a shorter sentence
- How your lawyer builds your case — Strong legal arguments and mitigation can make a difference
Understanding Federal Sentencing Guidelines
The federal guidelines help judges determine how long someone should spend in prison. These guidelines take into account:
- What the crime was
- The volume of loss or quantity of contraband
- Whether the crime involved a gun or other weapon
- Your background and past convictions
Even though the guidelines aren’t mandatory, most judges follow them closely. A knowledgeable lawyer can fight the numbers and push for a reduced sentence under the guidelines.
Can My Sentence Be Reduced?
Yes — in some cases. There are several potential paths to a reduced sentence:
- Plea agreements with prosecutors
- Cooperation with law enforcement (under Rule 35)
- Mitigating factors, like family responsibilities, mental health, or a clean record
The sooner you involve a criminal defense attorney in Franklin County, IL, the more options you may have.
What Services Does a Federal Felony Lawyer Provide in Franklin County, IL?
If you’re facing federal charges in Franklin County, IL, this type of lawyer focuses on defending you under U.S. law.
Here’s what a strong Franklin County, IL federal felony lawyer does at each step of the process:
1. Protects You During the Investigation
Investigations by agencies like the FBI or IRS often begin long before formal charges are filed. If you’re approached by investigators, your defense lawyer can:
- Protect you from saying something damaging by stepping in immediately
- Manage target letters or subpoenas directly for you
- Try to resolve the investigation before charges are ever filed
2. Challenges the Evidence
Defense attorneys use pre-trial motions to:
- Block evidence collected through unlawful means, including wiretaps, invalid warrants, or improper interrogations
- Challenge the credibility of surveillance data, tech analysis, or government informants
- File motions to reduce or eliminate charges at the pre-trial stage
3. Builds a Strategic Defense
Whether the case goes to trial or not, your defense attorney must:
- Investigate the facts independently
- Find expert witnesses or forensic specialists
- Pinpoint legal defenses such as lack of intent, entrapment, or mistaken identity
- Build a full trial defense in case it proceeds
4. Negotiates Plea Deals and Sentencing Outcomes
Most federal cases don’t go to trial — but that doesn’t mean you give up. A strong defense lawyer can:
- Fight to get charges lowered or thrown out before trial
- Collaborate with the government to reach a favorable plea agreement
- Present mitigation factors like personal background, family ties, or cooperation to seek a lighter sentence
5. Stays With You Through Sentencing and Appeals
Your attorney doesn’t stop working after a conviction:
- Push for leniency or non-custodial outcomes at the sentencing hearing
- Guide you through post-conviction motions or appeals processes
- Provide guidance to your loved ones and walk you through what’s ahead
In short, a federal felony lawyer isn’t just a courtroom representative — they’re your lifeline through one of the most complex and stressful experiences you’ll ever face.
How Can You Respond to a Federal Felony Charge in Franklin County, IL?
To fight federal charges, you need to move fast, avoid speaking to agents, and get a qualified lawyer on your side ASAP. These cases move fast, and the government has more time, money, and tools than the average defendant. That said, you still have constitutional rights and defense strategies available.
Step 1: Don’t Talk to Agents Without a Lawyer
If you’ve been contacted by the FBI, DEA, IRS, or another agency — or if you received a target letter or grand jury subpoena — do not talk to them without legal representation. Even a short conversation can be used against you later.
Instead:
- Stay calm
- Tell them you won’t answer questions without legal representation
- Immediately contact a federal felony attorney in Franklin County, IL
Step 2: Understand the Charges and Exposure
Your lawyer will review:
- The formal indictment
- The complaint or information used to bring charges
- What evidence federal prosecutors intend to present
This helps you see both your legal exposure and the best possible response.
Step 3: Develop a Defense Strategy Early
Waiting too long can cost you options. A good defense starts before trial, and often before charges are even filed. Depending on the case, your lawyer may:
- Submit legal motions to throw out evidence
- Present exculpatory materials to the U.S. Attorney
- Work toward a resolution before charges are filed
Should the case proceed, your defense will be crafted around your exact circumstances — not a cookie-cutter plan.
Step 4: Leverage Local Knowledge
Your case will likely be heard in East St. Louis or Benton — and knowing those courts is crucial.
That’s why it’s critical to hire someone who:
- Understands the personalities and processes of the local federal court system
- Has experience with Southern District of Illinois cases
- Knows how to work the local system from detention to sentencing, with real-world experience
Even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you, a smart, aggressive defense can protect your freedom and future.
How Federal Felony Charges Are Fought in Court
Federal felony cases vary widely, but defense attorneys rely on tested strategies to push back against charges. A strong defense should be customized to your situation, the charges, and applicable law — not based on a cookie-cutter playbook.
Here are some of the most common (and effective) ways federal felony charges are challenged:
1. Unlawful Search or Seizure
When federal law enforcement violates your Fourth Amendment rights, such as through an illegal search or overreaching a warrant, the resulting evidence can be suppressed. It’s called suppressing evidence — and it can make the entire prosecution fall apart.
2. Lack of Intent
Intent is a required element in most federal felony cases — and the prosecution must prove it. If you didn’t act knowingly or willfully — or if someone else committed the crime and you were unknowingly involved — that can be a strong defense.
3. Entrapment
Sometimes, law enforcement pushes someone into a crime — that’s where entrapment comes in. To succeed, you must show the agents caused the criminal action — not just observed it.
4. Insufficient Evidence
Federal prosecutors need to prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are gaps in the case — or if witnesses aren’t credible, evidence is weak, or the timeline doesn’t add up — the case may not survive a challenge at trial.
5. Procedural Errors
Federal criminal cases involve strict rules. Breaking these rules can result in a motion to dismiss or exclude critical evidence.
6. Plea Negotiation and Sentencing Advocacy
In some situations, the best legal strategy is focusing on damage control rather than winning outright. A skilled lawyer can:
- Push for reduced charges
- Argue for sentencing below the guidelines
- Present mitigation evidence about your background, family, or future plans
The objective goes beyond avoiding incarceration — it’s also about preserving your future.
Can You Be Released on Bail in Federal Court?
Yes, though it’s much tougher than getting bail in state-level cases. This process is known as “pretrial release,” and it’s not something you’re automatically entitled to.
Instead, there’s a detention hearing, where a judge decides whether you should stay in jail or be released while your case moves forward.
What Does the Judge Look At?
Federal judges consider two main questions:
- Are you a flight risk?
Are you likely to appear in court when required, or try to evade prosecution? - Are you a danger to the community?
Do your actions or history suggest you pose a threat to others if released?
If the court finds you either risky or dangerous, you’ll likely be held until trial.
Can a Lawyer Help Me Win Pretrial Release?
Your attorney’s job is to convince the judge that you’re a good candidate for release.
- Have strong ties to the community (job, family, home)
- Have no serious criminal history
- Are not a flight risk
- Are willing to follow release conditions (like GPS monitoring or limited travel)
Sometimes, no matter what your lawyer presents, release is still denied — especially in serious firearm or drug cases where detention is presumed. However, an experienced attorney can fight that presumption and request bond.
Why Combs Waterkotte Is the Right Choice for Federal Felony Defense in Franklin County, IL
If you’re dealing with serious federal charges in Franklin County, IL, you need a defense team that brings both expertise and drive. Here’s what sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
Over 50 Years of Combined Experience & 10,000+ Cases Handled
Our attorneys bring over 60 years of combined legal experience and a proven track record across thousands of cases. We’ve handled everything from complex federal charges to serious state felonies and difficult investigations.
Open Communication, Anytime You Need It
We prioritize open communication and accessibility—available nights, weekends, and even holidays. Our clients talk to their legal team directly—and they never get billed just for checking in.
Strategic Support from Experts, Investigators, and Specialists
From digital forensics to private investigation, we use every available resource to challenge the government’s case.
Fearless Trial Attorneys
Combs Waterkotte is trial-ready and unafraid to challenge federal prosecutors. When it’s in your best interest, we go to court and pursue “not guilty” verdicts—even in cases many firms consider unwinnable.
Nationally Recognized, Locally Respected
Our lawyers have earned national recognition and top trial honors. Our courtroom results speak for themselves—and our reputation is backed by real success.
Start with a Free Consultation — Never Pay by the Hour
We offer a free case evaluation to understand your situation and plan next steps. We don’t bill by the hour, so you’ll never be penalized for staying informed.
Federal Felony FAQs
We’ve answered most of these above, but here’s a quick recap of common questions people ask when facing federal charges in Franklin County, IL:
What makes a case a federal felony instead of a state case?
Crimes tied to federal agencies, that occur on federal land, or that cross state boundaries are usually prosecuted as federal felonies.
Are federal cases harder to beat?
They can be — because the federal government has more investigative power. But with skilled representation, strong outcomes are still possible.
How long do federal felony cases take?
Federal felony cases typically last many months — sometimes more than a year — based on trial decisions, discovery timelines, and case details.
Will I go to prison if I’m convicted?
Prison is common in federal cases, especially for offenses with mandatory minimums — but sentencing outcomes also depend on case specifics and defense work.
What kind of lawyer do I need for a federal case?
You need a federal criminal defense attorney who understands federal law, court rules, and sentencing guidelines — and has handled serious cases in U.S. District Court.
Contact a Federal Felony Lawyer in Franklin County, IL Today
If you’ve been charged — or think you’re under investigation — don’t wait for things to get worse. In federal cases, time matters. Acting quickly can make a major difference in how things turn out.
At Combs Waterkotte, we help people in Franklin County, IL and all over Southern Illinois fight serious federal charges. We’re ready to step in immediately, protect your rights, and build a strong plan forward.
Reach out now at (314) 900-HELP or fill out our online form to speak with a federal felony lawyer in Franklin County, IL for free.
