San Antonio Federal Criminal Defense Attorney: What to Do If You’re Indicted on Federal Charges

Being indicted on federal criminal charges is life-changing. The federal government is aggressive, resource-heavy, and methodical—when they file an indictment, it often means they’ve been secretly investigating for months or even years. If you’ve been indicted in San Antonio or anywhere in Texas, time is not on your side. You need a skilled federal criminal defense attorney in San Antonio—right now.

At Almonte Law, federal criminal defense is what we do. We represent clients across San Antonio and the state of Texas in serious federal cases—including white-collar crime, health care fraud, immigration offenses, drug conspiracies, firearm offenses, and more.

What Is a Federal Indictment?

A federal indictment is a formal criminal charge issued by a grand jury after a federal investigation. It means the U.S. Department of Justice believes there’s enough evidence to prosecute you in federal court.

Common federal charges include:

• Drug trafficking or drug conspiracy
• Wire fraud, mail fraud, and bank fraud
• Health Care Fraud
• Firearm and gun offenses
• Immigration-related federal crimes

In San Antonio, multiple federal agencies operate locally—including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and ICE—and they actively pursue cases in the Western District of Texas. If you’ve been indicted, you’re now up against experienced federal prosecutors backed by these powerful agencies.

6 Critical Steps After a Federal Indictment

Step 1: Stay Calm—But Act Immediately

An indictment is not a conviction, but it is serious. Don’t try to explain yourself to agents or prosecutors. Do not speak to federal law enforcement. Your first move should be hiring a federal criminal defense attorney in San Antonio who knows how to navigate these high-stakes cases.

Step 2: Call a San Antonio Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

Federal criminal defense is not like state court. These cases move faster, the sentencing guidelines are tougher, and prosecutors are more aggressive.

Robert Almonte, founder of Almonte Law, is a former federal prosecutor who now defends clients in the same system he once served. He understands the playbook federal prosecutors use—and how to counter it effectively.

Step 3: Understand the Charges and the Process

When you hire Almonte Law, we’ll:

• Review the indictment and all available discovery
• Explain your federal charges clearly and honestly
• Uncover potential weaknesses in the government’s case
• Build a strategic defense tailored to your goals

Whether you’re facing a multi-count wire fraud indictment or a complex drug trafficking conspiracy, we bring clarity, experience, and aggressive defense.

Step 4: Never Talk to Federal Agents Without a Lawyer

If federal agents—from the FBI, DEA, ATF, or Homeland Security—try to speak with you, don’t engage. They may seem friendly or intimidating, but anything you say can and will be used against you.

Let your attorney handle all communication with the federal government. This isn’t the time for guesswork—it’s the time for strategy.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Initial Court Appearance

Federal criminal cases in San Antonio are typically heard in the United States Courthouse at 262 W. Nueva Street. Your arraignment will involve:

• A formal reading of the charges
• Entering a plea (usually “not guilty”)
• Bail or detention determination

Having a San Antonio federal criminal defense lawyer by your side at this stage can make a major difference—especially when arguing for your release pending trial.

Step 6: Build a Federal Defense Strategy That Wins

Federal prosecutors are skilled—but not unbeatable. With Robert Almonte’s experience as a former Assistant U.S. Attorney, you get insider knowledge of how federal cases are built and how to challenge them.

At Almonte Law, we:

• Conduct independent investigations
• Challenge unlawful searches and seizures
• File strategic pretrial motions
• Negotiate plea agreements when appropriate
• Take cases to trial when necessary

We fight to protect what matters most—your freedom, your career, your reputation, and your future.

Why Choose Almonte Law for Your Federal Criminal Defense?

When you’re facing the full power of the federal government, you need more than just a defense lawyer—you need a battle-tested advocate.

At Almonte Law, we provide:

• Deep experience in federal criminal defense
• Local knowledge of San Antonio federal courts
• Personalized, client-focused service
• A former federal prosecutor in your corner

From drug trafficking and healthcare fraud to conspiracy and firearms offenses, we handle complex, high-stakes federal cases across San Antonio and Texas,

Contact a San Antonio Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been indicted on federal charges in San Antonio, don’t wait.

📞 Call Almonte Law today at (210) 866-3233
💻 Or schedule a confidential consultation online

Your future is too important to leave to chance. Let Almonte Law help you take control of your defense.