A federal case is not a state case with a different name on the courthouse. The investigators are different, the prosecutors are different, the rules are different, and the stakes are usually higher. Federal agents often build a case for months or years before anyone is arrested, so by the time you know you're a target, the government may already have a head start.
Stephen D. Hébert is a former prosecutor who defends clients in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana in New Orleans. He knows how the government builds its cases, and he uses that knowledge to find the weak points in them.
Federal Charges Stephen Handles
Drug offenses: Distribution, possession with intent, and conspiracy charges, which can carry mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity.
Firearms offenses: Felon in possession, possession of a firearm in connection with a drug offense, and other federal gun charges.
Fraud and white-collar crimes: Wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, mortgage fraud, tax offenses, and money laundering.
Public corruption: Bribery, extortion, and related charges involving public officials or government programs.
How a Federal Case Moves
Investigation: Agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, IRS, and HSI gather evidence, often using grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, and cooperating witnesses. Some people learn they're under investigation through a target letter or a visit from agents. If that happens to you, talk to a lawyer before you talk to the government.
Indictment and initial appearance: Most federal felonies are charged by grand jury indictment. After arrest, a magistrate judge decides whether you'll be released or detained while the case is pending, and that detention hearing can shape everything that follows.
Discovery and pretrial motions: Your defense reviews the government's evidence and challenges it where the law allows, including motions to suppress evidence from unlawful searches.
Plea negotiations or trial: Many federal cases resolve through negotiation, and the terms of that deal matter enormously. When a case should go to trial, it goes to trial.
Sentencing: The judge calculates a range under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, but that range is advisory. A strong sentencing presentation can make a real difference in the outcome.
Why Early Representation Matters
In federal court, the most important decisions are often made before charges are filed. Whether to speak with agents, whether to respond to a subpoena, whether cooperation makes sense: these choices can't be undone later. The earlier you have counsel, the more options you have.
Talk to Stephen D. Hébert
If you've been contacted by federal agents, received a target letter, or been charged in federal court, call or text 504-250-6020. Phone availability is 24/7.