A federal felony lawyer in Greenville, IL defends people charged with serious crimes in U.S. District Court. These are high-stakes cases with complex legal procedures and severe penalties, overseen by the federal government instead of local law enforcement.
If you or someone you love is facing federal charges in Greenville, IL, you need a lawyer who knows how to handle the federal system from day one. From East St. Louis to Carbondale and everywhere in between, Combs Waterkotte fights hard to defend your rights, reduce your exposure, and help you move forward after a federal charge.
Quick Summary: What You’ll Learn About Federal Felony Charges in Greenville, IL
- Federal felonies are major offenses handled by federal prosecutors — not local law enforcement — with serious penalties and complicated legal procedures.
- Federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF typically investigate these cases, which are then prosecuted in U.S. District Court.
- You’ll see how charges are filed, bail works, and sentencing decisions are made — and why the right defense strategy matters from day one.
- You’ll learn the top defense strategies, what federal lawyers do, and how to defend yourself in the Southern Illinois court system.
- Facing a charge? This guide will walk you through the process, outline your choices, and help you plan your defense.
What Counts as a Federal Felony?
A federal felony is a serious crime that violates U.S. law — not just state law. These cases are handled by the federal government and prosecuted in U.S. District Court. Convictions can lead to long prison sentences — sometimes stretching into decades.
What Makes a Criminal Case Go Federal?
What makes it “federal” instead of “state” usually comes down to one of these things:
- The offense involved crossing state boundaries
- It happened on federal property (like a post office or military base)
- Federal agents played a role in the case, including agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF
- It violated a specific federal statute
Federal Felony Classification: What You Should Know
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 Greenville, IL
Federal felony charges come in many forms, but they all carry serious consequences. Below are common federal charges we defend — including what they involve and how serious the penalties can be under U.S. 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) |
What Happens After You’re Charged With a Federal Felony in Greenville, IL?
Federal criminal cases follow a strict process. Understanding the process early — especially if you’re under investigation — can help you protect your rights and avoid serious missteps.
Below is a general overview of how a federal felony case progresses:
1. Investigation
Investigations by agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, or IRS often start the federal case process. 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. If they agree, you’ll be indicted — meaning the case officially begins.
3. Arrest and Detention Hearing
After the indictment, you’ll be arrested or ordered to appear in court. At your detention hearing, a judge will decide whether you can stay out on bond or must remain in custody. Federal judges are more cautious with bond, weighing public safety and whether you might flee.
4. Pre-Trial Motions and Negotiations
An experienced attorney may file motions to exclude evidence or attack the charges against you. Meanwhile, prosecutors might propose a plea agreement. Many federal cases are resolved before trial — but you still need strong legal leverage to negotiate.
5. Trial
If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial in U.S. District Court. The government’s attorneys come prepared, but they still have to meet a high burden of proof. Your lawyer must be ready with a full defense strategy, expert witnesses, and cross-examination plans.
6. Sentencing
If you’re convicted — or if you plead guilty — the judge will hold a sentencing hearing. Sentencing in federal court follows detailed guidelines that can be hard to navigate. Your defense attorney may be able to reduce your sentence by presenting mitigating factors.
7. Appeals (if needed)
When legal errors occur at trial or sentencing, your attorney can appeal to a federal appellate court. Though complex and time-limited, appeals can sometimes reverse or lessen your conviction.
Will I Go to Prison for a Federal Felony Conviction in Greenville, IL?
Most people convicted of a federal felony do go to prison. This is largely due to strict federal sentencing laws and mandatory minimums that limit a judge’s discretion.
But prison time isn’t automatic in every case. Several things influence the final sentence, including:
- 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 — A plea deal may lower your sentence
- How your lawyer builds your case — How well your lawyer argues your case can affect the outcome significantly
Understanding Federal Sentencing Guidelines
Judges in federal court rely on the Sentencing Guidelines to determine the appropriate prison term. Sentencing decisions are based on things like:
- The type of offense
- The volume of loss or quantity of contraband
- Whether the crime involved a gun or other weapon
- Your prior criminal record
While not technically mandatory, federal judges often stick closely to these rules. That’s why having a lawyer who knows how to challenge the calculations and argue for a downward variance is so important.
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
Getting a criminal defense attorney in Greenville, IL on board early can open up more paths forward.
What Does a Federal Felony Lawyer in Greenville, IL Actually Do?
A federal felony lawyer defends people in Greenville, IL who are accused of breaking U.S. law.
Here’s what a strong Greenville, IL federal felony lawyer does at each step of the process:
1. Protects You During the Investigation
Federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or IRS often investigate long before anyone is charged. If you’re approached by investigators, your defense lawyer can:
- Get involved before you say anything to federal agents
- Manage target letters or subpoenas directly for you
- Try to resolve the investigation before charges are ever filed
2. Challenges the Evidence
Your lawyer can file pre-trial motions to:
- Suppress illegally obtained evidence (e.g., bad search warrant, wiretap, or confession)
- Uncover flaws in digital forensics, surveillance tactics, or informant testimony
- Seek to have charges dropped or minimized early in the process
3. Builds a Strategic Defense
Whether the case goes to trial or not, your defense attorney must:
- Dig into the details of the case without relying solely on the government’s version
- Locate professionals who can provide expert testimony or analysis
- Develop core defenses, including entrapment or mistaken identity, based on case facts
- 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
- Pursue plea bargains that minimize sentencing risk
- Advocate for leniency based on your cooperation, history, or personal circumstances
5. Stays With You Through Sentencing and Appeals
Your attorney doesn’t stop working after a conviction:
- Fight for reduced or alternative sentencing options
- Assist with filing an appeal or seeking a retrial
- Support your family and explain next steps
Your lawyer is more than legal help — they’re a crucial advocate during one of the hardest periods of your life.
How Can You Respond to a Federal Felony Charge in Greenville, IL?
To fight federal charges, you need to move fast, avoid speaking to agents, and get a qualified lawyer on your side ASAP. Federal prosecutors move quickly, and they have resources most people can’t match. Still, you have legal protections and paths to fight back.
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:
- Remain calm and don’t panic
- Politely decline to answer questions
- Get in touch with a defense lawyer in Greenville, IL as soon as possible
Step 2: Understand the Charges and Exposure
Your lawyer will review:
- The formal indictment
- All relevant charging paperwork
- 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
The longer you wait, the fewer tools you’ll have. In many cases, your best defense begins before formal charges appear. Depending on the case, your lawyer may:
- File motions to suppress evidence
- Share favorable information with the federal prosecutor
- Work toward a resolution before charges are filed
If the case goes forward, your defense plan will be tailored to your specific charges and situation, not a one-size-fits-all script.
Step 4: Leverage Local Knowledge
Your case will likely be heard in East St. Louis or Benton — and knowing those courts is crucial.
You want a lawyer who:
- Knows the local judges, U.S. Attorneys, and court procedures
- Knows how federal cases unfold in Southern Illinois courts
- Knows how to work the local system from detention to sentencing, with real-world experience
When it feels like everything’s against you, a strong defense can still change the outcome.
How Federal Felony Charges Are Fought in Court
Every federal case is different, but there are proven legal strategies that defense lawyers use to fight serious 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
Federal prosecutors must usually show that you meant to commit the crime. 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. It’s not enough to show that officers were involved — the key is showing they crossed the line and created the criminal behavior.
4. Insufficient Evidence
All charges must be supported by solid evidence that convinces a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. Lack of convincing proof or credibility issues can cause the charges to collapse.
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. That’s where an experienced attorney can:
- Push for reduced charges
- Argue for sentencing below the guidelines
- Present mitigation evidence about your background, family, or future plans
The goal isn’t just avoiding prison — it’s protecting your rights and helping you get back to the rest of your life after the case is over.
Can You Be Released on Bail in Federal Court?
Yes, although securing bail in federal court is significantly more difficult than in state court. This process is known as “pretrial release,” and it’s not something you’re automatically entitled to.
You’ll have a detention hearing instead, where the judge weighs whether to release you or keep you in custody during the case.
How Does a Federal Judge Decide on Bail?
Federal judges consider two main questions:
- Are you a flight risk?
Will you return for court dates, or might you flee? - Are you a danger to the community?
Does your alleged crime or background make you a public safety risk?
If the judge thinks either answer is “yes,” they can order you to stay locked up until trial.
How Does an Attorney Improve My Chances of Getting Bail?
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 Greenville, IL
Federal felony charges in Greenville, IL demand a legal team with unmatched experience and relentless commitment. Here’s what sets Combs Waterkotte apart:
Decades of Experience and Thousands of Successful Cases
Our attorneys bring over 60 years of combined legal experience and a proven track record across thousands of cases. That covers major felony cases at both the federal and state level—including high-stakes trials and in-depth 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.
A Deep Bench of Investigative and Forensic Resources
We work with skilled investigators, forensic experts, and technical specialists to build comprehensive defences tailored to your case—no matter how complex.
Fearless Trial Attorneys
Combs Waterkotte is trial-ready and unafraid to challenge federal prosecutors. We don’t avoid court—we prepare for it, and we know how to win when it matters most.
Respected Nationwide — Proven in Court
Our lawyers have earned national recognition and top trial honors. With a long history of case dismissals and favorable outcomes, our approach is both strategic and client-focused.
Start with a Free Consultation — Never Pay by the Hour
We’ll review your case for free and explain the road ahead. There are no surprise hourly bills—you can reach out as needed without extra cost.
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 Greenville, IL:
What makes a case a federal felony instead of a state case?
If the alleged crime crosses state lines, involves a federal agency, happens on federal property, or breaks U.S. law, it becomes a federal case.
Are federal cases harder to beat?
Yes. Federal prosecutors are often better funded and more thorough than their state counterparts. Still, strategic defense can lead to dismissal, a favorable plea, or even an acquittal.
How long do federal felony cases take?
Most take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity, whether you go to trial, and how quickly evidence is shared.
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?
The right lawyer is one with proven experience in federal court, knowledge of U.S. sentencing law, and a track record of success defending felony charges.
Contact a Federal Felony Lawyer in Greenville, IL Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late — if you’ve been charged or suspect you’re under investigation, now is the time to act. In federal cases, time matters. Acting quickly can make a major difference in how things turn out.
We represent clients in Greenville, IL and throughout Southern Illinois facing federal felony charges. We can get involved immediately, defend your rights, and start building your defense today.
Reach out now at (314) 900-HELP or fill out our online form to speak with a federal felony lawyer in Greenville, IL for free.
