Facing the prospect of a federal criminal charge can be overwhelming. Unlike some state crimes, these charges often result in significant fines and lengthy jail sentences. An arrest can happen out of nowhere, blindsiding you and your family and damaging your reputation.
Therefore, when facing a federal offense, knowing what to expect and when to expect it is crucial. Our seasoned government crimes attorneys can explain these crimes in further detail and inform you about federal criminal arrests in Charleston.
How Does a Federal Arrest Take Place?
There are two scenarios involving federal arrests: the first typically involves non-violent offenses and business crimes—in which case the government will send a letter to the alleged offender or ask their lawyer to surrender the client—and the second is a sunrise arrest—in which case a raid team will attempt to find the alleged suspect and serve them an arrest warrant.
These situations are especially dangerous for the agent and the people getting arrested. In some cases, for example, if there is a drug conspiracy involving a dozen people, law enforcement in Charleston will execute these raids at the same time.
When Does an Alleged Suspect Get Arrested?
In most instances, the government will build a case against an alleged offender before arresting them for a federal crime. Likewise, more extensive investigations involve an extended surveillance period in which agents will investigate the potential suspect using video footage, wiretaps, and forensic testing.
What to Expect During an Arrest for a Federal Crime
When an alleged suspect is aware of potentially being arrested, law enforcement may give them the option to present themselves to jail or the marshal’s office to avoid embarrassment. On the other hand, when law enforcement makes an arrest against an alleged offender, they will likely bring the individual in for questioning and attempt to get them to cooperate before forcibly making an arrest.
Next, the agent or marshal will go through the process of booking the individual by taking their fingerprints, searching them, and putting them in a cell. Within 48 hours, accused persons will attend a hearing where the judge can set their bond. Judges are given two sets of instructions when making these determinations. For example, for violent crimes involving drugs, the judge must order a mandatory minimum bond unless the defense can prove the individual should be released for a particular reason. For non-violent or white-collar crimes, the judge will make their determination for bond based on the facts of the case. In either scenario, the judge must evaluate whether an alleged offender is a risk to the community or a flight risk with the potential to flee the country.
The Risk of Being Arrested for a Federal Crime
Unfortunately, an accused person’s family members might suffer in the wake of the individual’s federal crime arrest. In many situations involving economic losses, the government will freeze or seize the alleged offender’s bank accounts. Additionally, any property the alleged defendant stole during the commission of the crime, including homes and cars.
That said, there are several ways an accused person, or their family, can fight to keep funds and property. However, doing so requires a knowledgeable attorney in Charleston willing to fight in court.
Call an Attorney in Charleston to Discuss Your Options After a Federal Criminal Arrest
When the government accuses you of a federal crime, you are likely facing significant penalties that can impact you and your family for the rest of your life.
In these situations, having a legal representative’s experience and support is vital. Call our dedicated attorneys today to learn more about federal criminal arrests in Charleston.
