Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal crime, your freedom and future are at stake. Federal criminal cases are extremely serious matters that require experienced, aggressive representation by a skilled federal criminal defense lawyer.

As a former federal prosecutor with over 30 years of experience, William G. Yarborough has an insider’s perspective on how the federal justice system works. He now puts that knowledge to work defending the rights of those accused of federal offenses. Our law firm provides high-caliber, strategic defense representation aimed at achieving the best possible outcome, whether that means getting charges dismissed, negotiating a favorable plea deal, or mounting a strong defense at trial.

Types of Federal Crimes We Defend

Federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS, and others investigate and prosecute a wide range of criminal offenses, often working in conjunction with state and local authorities. Some of the most common types of federal criminal cases we handle include the following:

• Drug crimes: Drug manufacturing, distribution, trafficking, and conspiracy charges related to controlled substances
• White-collar crimes: Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, insider trading, and other financial crimes
• Public corruption: Bribery, extortion, misuse of public funds, and similar offenses by government officials
• Weapons offenses: Illegal possession, sale, or trafficking of firearms and other weapons
• Tax crimes: Tax evasion, filing false returns, and other federal tax law violations
• Computer crimes: Hacking, identity theft, child pornography, and similar Internet-based offenses
• Federal appeals: Appealing a conviction or sentence imposed in federal court

Regardless of the specific charges you face, being the target of a federal criminal investigation is an intimidating prospect with potentially life-altering consequences. You need a federal criminal attorney with the skills and tenacity to protect your rights.

The Federal Criminal Process

Federal criminal cases are very different from state-level cases. They involve unique laws, procedures, sentencing guidelines, and prosecutorial strategies. The federal criminal process typically includes the following key stages:

• Investigation: Most federal cases begin with a lengthy investigation, often spanning many months, by the FBI or other federal agencies. If you suspect you are under investigation, contacting a federal crime defense attorney right away is crucial to protect your rights.
• Indictment: If investigators believe there is probable cause, they will present evidence to a grand jury seeking an indictment. The grand jury process is one-sided, with no opportunity for the defense to participate.
• Arrest: Once an indictment is issued, an arrest warrant allows agents to take the defendant into custody. Following the arrest, the accused is brought before a magistrate judge for an initial hearing.
• Arraignment & discovery: At an arraignment, formal charges are read and the defendant enters an initial plea, usually “not guilty.” Both sides then engage in discovery, exchanging evidence to be used at trial.
• Plea bargaining: The vast majority of federal criminal cases are resolved through plea bargains. Prosecutors often use the threat of long mandatory minimum sentences as leverage. A skilled federal criminal defense lawyer can negotiate for reduced charges, a more lenient sentence, or alternatives to incarceration.
• Trial: If a plea deal is not reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. The government bears the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Effective trial advocacy by an experienced federal defense attorney is essential.
• Sentencing: If you are convicted at trial or via guilty plea, a separate sentencing hearing is held where the judge hands down the punishment. This can include fines, asset forfeiture, restitution, probation, and significant prison time.
• Appeal: Following a guilty verdict, you have the right to appeal the conviction and sentence to a higher court. Identifying legal errors and forcefully arguing the issues are key to a successful federal criminal appeal.

Having a knowledgeable guide by your side through each phase of this daunting process can make all the difference. William G. Yarborough, our federal criminal defense attorney, has handled hundreds of federal criminal cases as both a prosecutor and a criminal defense lawyer in South Carolina and nationwide. He provides the strong, effective advocacy you need when your liberty is on the line.

Proven Results in Federal Court

Over his three decades in practice, William Yarborough has achieved many notable victories for clients in federal criminal matters. Of course, no attorney can promise a particular result, and each case is unique. But he has the skills and experience to advocate for you effectively and deliver positive outcomes, even in complex federal prosecutions.

Choosing the Right Federal Criminal Attorney

Being charged with a federal crime is undoubtedly one of the trickiest positions a person can face. A crucial decision you will make in this situation is choosing the right federal criminal defense lawyer to defend you. Here are some of the key qualities to look for in a federal criminal defense attorney in Greenville.

• Extensive trial experience and a track record of success in federal cases
• Detailed knowledge of federal criminal laws and sentencing guidelines
• Personalized attention and responsive client service
• Commitment to pursuing every available defense and legal remedy
• Willingness to put in the long hours required to effectively handle a federal case

For over 30 years, William G. Yarborough has dedicated his career as a federal criminal defense lawyer to defending the accused. If you are facing federal charges in South Carolina or beyond, contact us today for a confidential consultation.