What Is The Difference Between Federal And State Court? If you’re facing federal charges, and you’re wondering what court will be like, Chris Combs, managing partner at Combs Waterkotte, has answers for you.
Interview Transcript
Scott Michael Dunn: And that’s what you’re getting into. Like, what is the difference between a federal and state court? What looks different and what feels different about the two of them?
Chris Combs: It couldn’t be any more different. I mean, my first few times in federal court, I was extremely intimidated. You walk into these federal buildings, and there’s 40-foot ceilings, and they’re like a mausoleum.
And you see people who look like they could work at McDonald’s, or anywhere that just look like any guy walking down the street, and then they pull up their shirt, and they’re a federal agent, you know?
Scott Michael Dunn: Right.
Chris Combs: And they do that on purpose. They’re kind of scruffy and dressed down to blend into the community.
So, it’s just a whole different vibe, you know. The judge sits way higher. It is meant to be more intimidating and much more serious. Again, you’re looking at judges with lifetime federal appointments and –
Scott Michael Dunn: Yeah.
Chris Combs: –You’re looking at a much – I hate to say this, I don’t want to offend any state prosecutors, but – you’re typically looking at a higher caliber prosecutor in the federal prosecutor’s office.
Scott Michael Dunn: They played to win.
Chris Combs: Yes. And I mean – and that’s why their conviction rate is so high. And one reason for that is, in the sentencing guidelines, you do get a reduction for accepting responsibility and pleading guilty. But another reason is, as Andrew was talking about with these investigations spanning potentially two years, they take their time, and then they get all their ducks in a row, and when that indictment drops –
Scott Michael Dunn: Right,
Chris Combs: – a lot of times they’ve got you boxed in pretty good.
If you’re facing federal charges and need an expert criminal defense lawyer, contact Combs Waterkotte today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential case review. We will fight for your rights and freedom.
