Federal Criminal Lawyer
Are you being investigated by a federal agency? Attorney Paul Doyle, a federal crimes defense lawyer in Houston, TX, has successfully defended numerous individuals against federal charges.
Explore your federal criminal defense options. Contact Paul Doyle & Associates today to schedule a free consultation.
What Is a Federal Crime?
In the United States, there are state laws and there are federal laws. Any violation of federal law is considered a federal crime.
An offense will also be considered a federal crime if:
- The offense occurs on property owned by the federal government or on an Indian reservation
- The crime is committed against federal officers or a federal agency
- The perpetrator crosses state lines while committing the crime
- The offense occurs in multiple states (like an Internet fraud scheme that targets individuals all over the country)
Federal agencies involved
in these cases:
There are numerous government agencies that investigate federal crimes, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Federal criminal cases are handled by federal prosecutors, tried in federal court, and overseen by federal judges.
Examples of Federal Crimes
- Bank Fraud
- Wire Fraud
- Mortgage Fraud
- Possession of Child Pornography
- Environmental Crimes
- Health Care Fraud
- Blackmail
- Money Laundering
- Counterfeiting
- Cyber Crimes
- Extortion
- Smuggling
- Racketeering
- Certain Sex Crimes
- Certain Drug Crimes
- DWI on Federal Land
- Embezzlement
- Human Trafficking
- Most White-Collar Crimes
- Insurance Fraud
- Treason
"What stood out about Paul, was his understanding of the law. There was no question that he was in my corner supporting me."
—Chuck
Why Federal Charges Are Serious Three Key Factors When Charged With Federal Offenses
You Need a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Houston
Contact Paul Doyle & Associates Today
If you are being investigated for a federal crime, you can't trust your case to just any defense attorney. You need a federal criminal defense lawyer who has successfully handled cases at the federal level and is not afraid to appear in federal court. You need Paul Doyle & Associates.
Our law firm was named "The Best of the Best in Criminal Defense" by the Houston Chronicle in 2021 for a reason. Thanks to his background as a former prosecutor and his record of success in high-profile cases, Paul Doyle has the knowledge, skill, and confidence necessary to defend individuals facing accusations of white-collar crimes, sex crimes, and other federal crimes.
If you are in need of a federal criminal defense lawyer, contact Paul Doyle & Associates today to request a free consultation. You can request your free consultation by contacting us online or calling our Houston defense attorney office.
Call Us: (713) 228-9200
A Leading Criminal Defense Advocate in Houston, TX Ready to Fight Your Federal Criminal Charges
"Chances are you’re here looking for a review because you’re in need of a good lawyer. If you’re facing a felony or misdemeanor and you need someone to diligently fight for you, you’ve found that person. My family will never look for another lawyer again. A lot of lawyers sell broken promises and unmet expectations, don’t expect that here. He’s honest and he will try his best. My family has grown to love you over this time period, thank you!" Lila L., 5-Star Review
Why Choose Paul Doyle & Associates?
Legal Accolades
In addition to being named "The Best of the Best in Criminal Defense" by the Houston Chronicle, Paul Doyle has been featured in national media outlets, including Forbes Magazine and The New York Times, and earned the highest possible rating on Avvo.
High-Profile Cases
Federal cases are more likely to be high-profile affairs that can garner a lot of media attention. Paul Doyle has experience representing celebrities, professional athletes, and other well-known figures in heavily publicized cases. He will not be intimidated by the magnitude of your federal charges.
Personalized Attention
Other criminal defense lawyers in Houston try to take on as many cases as possible, encouraging their clients to take quick plea deals so the law firm can move on to the next case. That's not how we handle federal cases at Paul Doyle & Associates. We intentionally limit our caseload so we can give you the attention your case requires, and we will never advise you to take a deal unless we are sure it represents your best possible outcome.
Paul Doyle Understands Defense and Prosecution Strategies
Strong Criminal Defense From a Former Harris County Prosecutor
Not all criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in prosecutorial procedure. That's what makes Paul Doyle unique among Houston defense lawyers.
Before becoming a criminal defense lawyer, Paul spent seven years working as a prosecutor for the Harris County District Attorney's office. This background with the DA gave him immense insight into how investigations are conducted and prosecutorial strategies are developed.
Defense Lawyers Who Know How Prosecutors Think
You need every advantage you can get if you're a defendant in a federal criminal case. The attorneys at Paul Doyle & Associates knows how prosecutors think. Our lawyers can pick apart claims from federal prosecutors and fight to reduce lengthy prison sentences and other federal penalties.
Charged with Federal Offenses?
You Can Take Back Control
How Paul Doyle & Associates Can Help with Federal Criminal Cases
In this video, Paul Doyle and Trevor Sharon explain their approach to criminal defense. Our law firm is committed to the ideals of patience, empathy, and justice. If you need a federal criminal defense attorney in Houston, you can count on us.
Get a Skilled Houston Defense Lawyer on You Side
Are you facing federal felony charges? Are you not sure who you can turn to when so much is at stake? You need an attorney who understands criminal law from both sides. You need the team at Paul Doyle & Associates.
Our law firm will use all of our legal knowledge and our prosecutorial background to develop an airtight defense strategy. We will not be intimidated by federal lawyers or federal agents as we mount our defense. You can trust that we'll be on your side every step of the way.
Do not hesitate or delay. To speak with a federal criminal defense attorney in Houston, contact our Harris County law office today.
(713) 228-9200
We know how prosecutors operate.We know what's at stake.
We will fight for you.
Attorneys Paul Doyle and Trevor Sharon are ready to listen. Your initial case review is free of charge.
Federal Crimes We Defend Assistance With All Kinds of Criminal Cases
Bank, Wire, or Mortgage Fraud
Any alleged attempt to defraud a bank or lender over the phone, internet, or mail will likely be prosecuted in federal court. Because he used to cooperate with the FBI as a prosecutor, Paul Doyle knows firsthand that investigations into major fraud schemes tend to sweep up innocent citizens who did not realize they were participating in fraudulent activity.
Other times, federal fraud charges are brought based on a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of documents. Paul knows how to build a compelling defense against these charges.
Child Pornography
Child pornography charges can be tried in state courts, federal courts, or both. When you realize that a law enforcement agency is investigating you for child pornography, you should contact our Houston federal criminal defense attorneys right away.
At Paul Doyle & Associates, our attorneys know that individuals found to be in possession of child pornography are not always the villains that society tends to portray them as. Many times, people facing these charges are either innocent or people who desperately want help and who don't deserve decades in prison.
Environmental Crimes
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces numerous federal regulations that can be difficult to comply with. Companies or individuals often violate environmental laws without realizing it. However, environmental crimes caused by negligence, regardless of intention, can still be prosecuted as federal criminal cases.
Paul Doyle has successfully defended organizations and individuals facing federal charges for environmental crimes. He will work to have your charges thrown out or have them reduced to civil instead of criminal charges.
Health Care Fraud
Paul Doyle defends medical professionals who are unfairly or falsely charged with health care fraud. Many times, doctors who are just trying to do the best thing for their patients end up cutting corners and triggering fraud investigations.
Other times, medical professionals are involved in organizations that are violating regulations without their knowledge. Whatever your circumstance is, our federal criminal defense lawyers will work tirelessly to defend your rights, your reputation, and your career.
Drug Offenses
A drug offense can become a federal criminal case if a federal law is broken or if the alleged crime is associated with international drug trafficking. During his time as a prosecutor for Harris County, Paul Doyle spent a few years specially focused on prosecuting drug cases. That experience taught him how DEA agents build cases, sometimes using improper or illegal means to do so.
If you are facing federal charges for a drug offense, Paul will know exactly where to look for weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Weapons Offenses
Weapons offenses are sometimes tried at the federal level. As a federal criminal defense attorney, Paul Doyle is committed to defending his clients' Second Amendment rights. He has relationships with weapons experts in the Houston area, and he has successfully had many weapons violations dismissed after presenting his clients' cases in front of a judge and jury.
If you are facing a weapons violation, our attorneys will do everything in their power to achieve dropped or reduced charges on your behalf.
Money Laundering
Money laundering can be tried in both federal and state courts. Once you are charged with money laundering, the government may seize your assets, and you may never get them back without the assistance of a federal criminal defense lawyer.
Paul Doyle has handled money laundering cases in the past. He knows how to fight the government on these charges, often choosing to prove that his clients had no knowledge of criminal activity attached to their money. With Paul on your side, you can avoid heavy fines, asset forfeiture, and potential jail time.
Cyber Crimes
When an alleged crime committed on the internet targets individuals in multiple states, it will be prosecuted by the federal government. Due to the anonymous nature of the internet, it can be easy to set up an innocent person for a cyber crime.
If you have been wrongfully accused of cyberbullying, child pornography, online solicitation of a minor, any kind of fraud, or some other cyber crime, contact Paul Doyle & Associates of Houston, TX. We will conduct a thorough investigation of your case and consult with computer experts to demonstrate your innocence.
Other Ways We Can Help
The federal crimes mentioned above are just a few of the offenses Paul Doyle & Associates has defended in federal court. Paul and his team have the knowledge, resources, and reputation for building a strong defense against any kind of federal charge.
Our Houston criminal defense lawyers are not afraid to take on federal cases, no matter how sensitive the topic or how notorious the accused is. If you or someone you love is being investigated for a federal crime, contact our Harris County criminal law office immediately.
Don't Delay: Contact Our Houston Law Office
As soon as you learn that you are being investigated for a federal crime, you should speak with a criminal defense lawyer. Don't speak to any investigators without first consulting with an attorney. Assert your right to an attorney if you are questioned, and then call Paul Doyle & Associates in Houston, TX.
Our federal criminal defense lawyers offer free consultations to individuals facing federal charges. Request your free consultation right now by contacting us online or by calling our Houston office.
Call Us: (713) 228-9200
Hear From NFL Pro-Bowler Vince Young
And What He Thinks of Our Team
“I’ve got a real good lawyer, one of the best in the country... He did a good job.”
—Vince Young
Knowledge and Understanding of State and Federal Criminal Law What to Expect When You Hire Our Lawyers for Your Federal Case
When you hire our Houston law firm, our federal criminal defense attorneys will listen to your story and work with you to develop a detailed plan of action to fight the charges against you. Our goal will be to clear your name as quickly as possible.
Federal Crimes FAQ
Can I be charged at the state level and the federal level for the same crime?
Yes. If an action violates both state and federal criminal law, it can be prosecuted separately in both state and federal courts. While the Constitution's Double Jeopardy Clause prohibits trying a citizen twice for the same crime, this does not apply to these situations because state and federal governments are separate.
This is known as the "dual-sovereignty doctrine." However, while it is technically possible to face trial at both levels of government, it is rare. Due to limited resources, one side or the other will usually drop their case if they know the other side is pursuing it.
What's the difference between a state judge and a federal judge?
Texas state judges are elected by the public and serve limited terms. If a seat is vacated between elections, the Governor makes an appointment, but that judge will still have to be re-elected during the next election. Federal judges, on the other hand, are appointed by the President and serve for life.
How often do federal criminal cases go to trial?
According to the Pew Research Center, in fiscal year 2022, only 0.4% of defendants who went to trial in federal criminal cases were acquitted. Around 90% of individuals charged with federal crimes pled guilty before their case went to trial, and 8% had their cases dismissed. Of the approximately 2% that did go to trial, about 91% were convicted.
These numbers reveal how important it is for anyone facing federal charges to consult with a criminal defense lawyer. You'll need sound legal counsel to navigate this case and achieve your best possible outcome.
Can I get a federal conviction expunged?
In the vast majority of federal cases, a conviction cannot be expunged or sealed from your criminal record through a nondisclosure order. The very narrow exception involves the use of controlled substances that amounts to a minor offense under 18 U.S.C. 3607(c).
The chances of being granted a Presidential pardon for a federal offense are highly unlikely, which is why it's best to hire a skilled criminal defense attorney to review your legal options.
Have a Question We Didn't Answer? Contact Our Houston Federal Criminal Lawyers for More Information
Federal investigations, prosecutions, and sentencing are complicated matters. You need a skilled legal advocate on your side with a deep knowledge of federal statutes and how to effectively combat criminal allegations.
If you've been accused of criminal activity by the federal government, speak with Paul Doyle and his team. To set up a free consultation with a federal crime defense attorney, contact our Houston law office today.
(713) 228-9200
We're Here for Our Clients Our Lawyers Stand with the People of Texas
"When i was referred to Paul Doyle I knew he was the high powered well connected Attorney I need. Just google him. Trevor is a pleasure to work with and always very easy to get in touch with call or text." Bronco Teño, 5-Star Review
