McAllen Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer in McAllen, Texas: Understanding Federal Charges and What’s at Stake
*Principal Office: San Antonio, Texas

If you’re facing federal criminal charges in McAllen, Texas, it’s crucial to understand the severity of these allegations. Federal charges are brought by the United States government for violations of federal law, which applies across all 50 states. These cases typically involve crimes that cross state lines, impact national interests, or fall under the jurisdiction of federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ICE. Robert Almonte, a Federal Criminal Defense lawyer in McAllen Texas, has the experience to fight for you.

Unlike state-level offenses, federal crimes in McAllen are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys and often involve powerful investigative tools, expert witnesses, and extensive government resources. Because of this, federal prosecutions tend to be more complex and carry significantly harsher penalties—including long prison terms, heavy fines, and lasting consequences on your personal and professional life.

Common Types of Federal Criminal Charges in McAllen, TX

As a major hub near the U.S.–Mexico border, McAllen sees a high volume of federal investigations. The most common types of federal charges include:

White-Collar Crimes

Federal white-collar crimes involve non-violent but financially damaging offenses such as:

• Securities fraud
• Wire fraud and mail fraud
• Healthcare fraud
• Mortgage fraud
• Tax evasion

These cases often involve intricate financial schemes, and defending them requires knowledge of federal regulatory agencies and forensic accounting.

Public Corruption

McAllen has seen several high-profile public corruption cases involving:

• Bribery of public officials
• Misuse of government contracts or federal grant money
• Election fraud or misconduct

These charges often require deep investigations into political connections and government spending.

Federal Drug Crimes

Due to McAllen’s location, federal drug charges are especially common and include:

• Drug trafficking
• Distribution or manufacturing of controlled substances
• Conspiracy to distribute narcotics

Federal drug prosecutions often involve multi-agency task forces and are prosecuted aggressively. Mandatory minimum sentences can apply.

Immigration Offenses

Federal immigration violations prosecuted in McAllen include:

• Illegal reentry after deportation
• Human trafficking
• Visa or document fraud

Because McAllen is located in a border district, federal immigration cases are frequent and often involve coordination with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and ICE.

Money Laundering

Money laundering charges involve concealing the origin of illegally obtained money. This is often connected to:

• Drug cartels
• Fraud rings
• Organized crime

Federal prosecutors rely on financial records, expert witnesses, and banking regulations to build these cases.

Cybercrimes

Federal cybercrime charges include:

• Online Solicitation
• Child Exploitation
• Human Trafficking
• Sex Trafficking
• Identity theft
• Online fraud schemes
• Dark web activity

Because cybercrimes often cross state and international boundaries, they fall under federal jurisdiction and involve advanced digital forensics.

Federal Firearms Offenses

Federal gun charges prosecuted in McAllen may involve:

• Felon in possession of a firearm
• Gun trafficking across state or international borders
• Use of a firearm during a drug or violent crime

These offenses often involve ATF and carry significant prison terms.

Federal Criminal Process: What to Expect in McAllen

Federal criminal cases in McAllen are handled at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, and typically follow this process:

1. Investigation by a federal agency (FBI, DEA, ICE, IRS, etc.)
2. Indictment by a grand jury
3. Arraignment and pretrial motions
4. Trial or plea negotiations
5. Sentencing under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines

Why You Need a McAllen Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

When facing federal charges in McAllen, time is critical. You need an experienced federal defense lawyer who understands the unique challenges of:

• Federal court procedures
• U.S. Sentencing Guidelines
• Multi-agency investigations
• High-stakes negotiations with U.S. Attorneys

Your attorney should be prepared to challenge the government’s evidence, file suppression motions, negotiate favorable plea agreements, or fight for an acquittal at trial.

Speak to an Experienced Federal Criminal Lawyer in McAllen, TX

Whether you’re under investigation or have already been indicted, the right defense starts with the right attorney. A seasoned McAllen federal criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Call today for a confidential consultation if you or a loved one is facing federal charges in McAllen or the surrounding Rio Grande Valley area.