Federal Criminal Defense

If you are the target of a federal agency in a grand jury investigation or subject to prosecution by the United States Attorney in the District of Delaware you will need a skilled criminal defense attorney that is familiar with the federal criminal system. Stakes can be significantly higher in the federal system. The penalties and sentences handed down in federal court typically carry more jail time than in the state system. If convicted, you will be subject to advisory sentencing guidelines that can be harsh and at times mandatory minimum penalties. Also, the number of defendants who plead guilty in federal court is high. Federal law enforcement agencies typically marshal more resources than state law enforcement and build strong cases prior to arrest. Federal agencies may employ wiretaps, video and audio surveillance, and the testimony of cooperating witnesses and/or undercover agents.

It is critical for your attorney to make the right moves at the outset of a federal criminal case. Early on, decisions must be made such as whether to cooperate, whether to meet with the United States Attorney, whether to make a statement or proffer, and whether to waive your speedy trial rights. These decisions you make at the outset could affect your case down the line and could affect the rest of your life. For instance, it would be a tragedy if you decided to plead guilty in exchange for your cooperation with authorities later to find out that your co-defendant(s) cases were dismissed due to insufficient evidence. On the other hand, cooperation could be your best play. Each case must be examined on the facts.

Jason R. Antoine Attorney at Law has handled complex matters such as the largest food stamp fraud case in Delaware history and interstate narcotics cases. He is admitted to practice before the Federal District Court for the District of Delaware and has completed criminal justice act training in Atlanta, GA for federal criminal cases. He was voted a Superlawer Rising Star for 2019 and maintains an AVVO 10 out of 10 rating.

Jason R. Antoine handles federal offenses such as

• White Collar Crime
• Grand Jury Proceedings
• Mail and Wire fraud
• Money Laundering
• Child Pornography
• Federal Drug Crimes
• Rico/Racketeering
• Tax Evasion
• Food Stamp Fraud

If you or a loved one are facing a grand jury investigation or a federal criminal charge contact Jason R. Antoine Attorney at Law at 302-482-4802. Below outlines our process for taking on new federal criminal matters.

1. Initial Interview with the Client

   A detailed initial confidential interview will take place between attorney and client. I will take down your contact information, conduct a detailed personal history and explore the facts of the case and possible defenses. In-office consultations are free. A flat rate will be charged for any visits to a detention center.

2. Fee Agreement or Contract

   After the initial interview I will quote you a fee for the case. My paralegal will draft a fee agreement or contract between attorney and client. If you would like to retain my services, you must sign the fee agreement and render the initial retainer as discussed.

3. Contact the Assistant United States Attorney

   Once the client has retained my services, depending on the stage of the case my likely first step is to contact the Assistant United States attorney (AUSA) and begin negotiations. I will typically explore pertinent issues such as the AUSA’s position on bail, the availability of any discovery, the opportunity to cooperate or make a proffer, whether to waive speedy trial rights, and the possibility of executing a NPA or “non-prosecution agreement” to keep the matter out of the criminal system entirely.

Contact Jason R. Antoine, Federal criminal lawyer at 302-482-4802 if you or someone you love is under investigation by a federal agency or facing prosecution in United States District Court.