What Are Federal Felonies?
A federal felony is any crime prosecuted under federal law that carries a sentence of more than one year in prison. These cases are handled in U.S. District Courts rather than local or state courts. Federal felonies often involve interstate activity, federal property, or crimes against federal agencies.
Examples include large-scale drug trafficking, white-collar crimes like bank fraud, firearms offenses, and child exploitation cases. Because federal statutes are broad and penalties are severe, even indirect involvement can result in life-changing charges.
A federal felony is nothing to take lightly. Call Combs Waterkotte's federal felony defense lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free case review.
Common Types of Federal Felony Charges in Missouri
Federal prosecutors in Missouri handle a wide range of felony cases. Here are some of the most common our experienced federal felony defense attorneys see:
- Federal Drug Trafficking & Conspiracy: Manufacturing, distribution, or interstate drug operations.
- Federal Weapons/Firearms Offenses: Felon in possession, trafficking weapons, or crimes with mandatory minimums.
- Federal Child Exploitation: Possession, distribution, or production of child pornography.
- Federal Internet Crimes: Computer and cyber crimes.
- Federal Fraud & Financial Crimes: Wire fraud, bank fraud, mail fraud, or securities fraud.
- Federal Public Corruption & Bribery: Federal bribery, obstruction, or conspiracy charges.
- Federal RICO & Organized Crime: Racketeering and organized conspiracy cases.
- Federal Immigration Offenses: Alien smuggling or visa fraud prosecuted under federal law.
Penalties for Federal Felonies in Missouri
Federal felony convictions carry some of the toughest punishments in the criminal justice system. Sentencing depends on the statute and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
- Drug Offenses — 5 years to life in prison, depending on drug type and quantity.
- Fraud Crimes — Up to 20 years per count, plus restitution and fines.
- Firearms Charges — 5–10 years minimum, with enhancements for repeat offenders.
- Child Exploitation — Mandatory minimums of 15–30 years for production, up to life in prison.
Beyond prison, defendants face heavy fines, restitution orders, forfeiture of property, and lifetime supervision or sex offender registration in certain cases.
Steps in a Federal Felony Case in Missouri
Federal cases move quickly. Here’s what to expect:
- Step 1 — Investigation: Agencies like the FBI, DEA, or IRS gather evidence, sometimes for years.
- Step 2 — Indictment: A federal grand jury issues charges if probable cause is found.
- Step 3 — Arraignment: You appear before a federal judge to enter a plea.
- Step 4 — Pretrial Motions: Your federal felony defense lawyer can move to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Step 5 — Trial: Federal prosecutors present their case; defense challenges evidence and testimony.
- Step 6 — Sentencing: If convicted, the federal sentencing guidelines determine penalties.
- Step 7 — Appeals: Post-conviction relief may be available.
Defenses to Federal Felony Charges
The Missouri federal felony defense lawyers at Combs Waterkotte build aggressive, tailored defense strategies for each case. Common defenses include:
- Illegal Search & Seizure — Suppressing evidence gathered without a valid warrant.
- Lack of Intent — Proving you did not knowingly commit the alleged crime.
- Entrapment — Exposing when government agents pushed illegal activity.
- Challenging Conspiracy Allegations — Showing no true agreement or overt act occurred.
- Credibility Attacks — Undermining unreliable witnesses or informants.
Every case is unique. Our team prepares for trial while also exploring opportunities to negotiate reduced charges or dismissals.
Why Choose Combs Waterkotte for Federal Felony Defense in Missouri
Federal charges require a team that knows how to fight in U.S. District Court. Here’s why clients across Missouri trust us:
- Decades of combined federal trial experience and expertise.
- Proven record of winning dismissals, acquittals, and reduced sentences.
- Personalized, client-centered defense strategies.
- Deep knowledge of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
- Strong negotiation skills with federal prosecutors.
- Aggressive support and courtroom advocacy when your future is at stake.
- Dedicated support from investigation through trial and appeal.
- Ability to challenge digital, financial, and forensic evidence.
