Federal Criminal Defense Guides

Complete Forfeiture and the Excessive Fines Clause: Federal Standards and Case Law Introduction The Eighth Amendment’s Excessive Fines Clause declares that “excessive fines” shall not be imposed, but what counts as “excessive” has been a subject of evolving judicial interpretation. In recent years, American governments have increasingly relied on fines, fees, and forfeitures as punitive […]

Overview of the Advice of Counsel Defense The advice of counsel defense is an affirmative defense that negates criminal intent by demonstrating that the defendant relied in good faith on legal advice. The defense is commonly asserted in white-collar crimes, including fraud, securities violations, and tax evasion cases​. Legal Standard To successfully assert this defense, […]

I travel the country defending individuals entangled in the federal legal system, and I’ve seen the Supreme Court’s processes both enchant and frustrate clients and lawyers alike. Today, I’d like to walk you through the essentials of drafting a Supreme Court petition and seeking that almost mythical certiorari grant. We’ll also touch on the so-called […]

Can You Get Bail After a Federal Indictment? Being federally indicted is a terrifying experience. You’re suddenly facing serious charges, possible prison time, and the overwhelming power of the U.S. government. One of the first questions many defendants ask is:   Can I get bail after a federal indictment? The answer? It depends. Unlike state […]

Federal investigations are typically long and thorough, often lasting months or years before charges are filed. Knowing what triggers a federal investigation and what steps to take is crucial. 1. Common Triggers for Federal Investigations Whistleblower Complaints – Employees or associates report suspected illegal activities. Suspicious Financial Transactions – Large cash deposits or unusual banking […]

Federal Criminal Defense Guide Federal Investigation Process Federal Target Letters Federal Indictments Inside the Federal Grand Jury Federal Arraignment & Pretrial Detention Cooperation & Proffer Agreements Pre-Trial Diversion Federal Crimes Federal Immunity Sentencing & Appeals

Unraveling Federal RICO Indictments Federal RICO and Racketeering Offenses From Federal Defense Attorney Ronald W. Chapman II RICO has had a resurgence since the Diddy, Abercrombie and Trump indictments. It’s broader now and more dangerous. Did you know? The FBI created a honeypot-encrypted cell phone service and collected tens of thousands of private communications. It […]

Are Your Emails Safe? From Federal Defense Attorney Ronald W. Chapman II Government searches of email accounts and how to defend them? Did you know? The FBI created a honeypot-encrypted cell phone service and collected tens of thousands of private communications. It was called Operation Trojan Shield and you can learn all about it in […]

Chevron is dead. But how does this impact the DEA? What about doctors who are accused of unlawful distribution?   Introduction Chevron deference might sound like a complicated legal term, but it’s a concept that has played a huge role in how federal agencies like the DEA operate. It all started with a Supreme Court […]

A Comprehensive Guide to Federal Criminal Defense (2025) Relief for Pardoned January 6th Defendants Relief for Pardoned January 6th Defendants Seeking a Lawsuit The sweeping pardons granted by President Donald Trump in 2025 to numerous January 6th defendants have raised questions about how those defendants might obtain additional relief beyond mere release from incarceration. A […]