Practice Areas

Practice Areas Summary for Robert Almonte

Robert Almonte is a highly respected criminal defense attorney based in Texas, known for his expertise in both federal and state criminal defense. He represents individuals and companies facing criminal investigations or prosecution. While Robert primarily practices in federal court, he will take on state court cases when he believes his involvement will significantly benefit his client.

With the majority of his legal career spent in federal court, Robert has honed his skills in federal criminal defense, an area in which many attorneys lack confidence. His previous experience as a federal prosecutor gives him a distinct advantage, providing valuable insight into how the government approaches these complex cases. Federal charges can be particularly daunting due to the immense resources and authority of the U.S. government, and federal sentencing can carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison terms.

Specializing in economic crimes, healthcare fraud, public corruption, money laundering, internet crimes, narcotics trafficking, criminal immigration crimes and firearms offenses, Robert Almonte brings extensive experience and strategic insight to every case he handles.

Federal Criminal Defense

Mr. Almonte’s practice is characterized by his extensive experience in federal court, where he has successfully navigated complex legal challenges. His expertise encompasses all stages of the criminal process, including investigations, witness representation, and sentencing hearings. His deep understanding of federal procedures and regulations allows him to effectively advocate for his clients’ rights and interests.

White-Collar Crimes

Federal white-collar crimes include a variety of non-violent offenses involving financial deception or fraud, such as securities fraud, insider trading, healthcare fraud, mortgage fraud, and tax evasion. These crimes often involve complex schemes with significant financial impacts on businesses, investors, and individuals.

Robert Almonte, a former federal prosecutor, handles these matters by leveraging his extensive legal expertise to investigate and defend such offenses.

Investigations

A federal or state investigation can be one of the most stressful and overwhelming experiences for an individual or company. Often, law enforcement agencies will send a “target letter” identifying you or your business as the subject or target of a grand jury investigation. Time is of the essence, and you need legal counsel to evaluate your case and secure a favorable outcome. I have worked directly with state and federal law enforcement and regulatory agencies including the Department of Justice (DOJ), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Securities Exchanges Commission (SEC), Texas State Securities Board, and many others. Contact Almonte Law immediately to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Public Corruption: Federal corruption charges are brought against public officials who exploit their position of power for personal or financial gain. These offenses often involve criminal activities like bribery, fraud, or misconduct tied to government contracts, federal funding, or the electoral process. Public corruption cases are complex and usually require extensive investigations into the inner workings of political networks, potential cover-ups, and the diversion or misuse of taxpayer resources. Such charges are taken seriously due to their potential to undermine public trust, the functioning of government, and democratic processes. Investigating and prosecuting these cases typically involves collaboration between various federal agencies, such as the FBI, and can have significant consequences for the public officials involved.

Drug Offenses: Federal drug charges involve the illegal trafficking, distribution, and production of controlled substances, including narcotics, prescription drugs, and other illegal drugs. These offenses often cross state lines or even international borders, which places them under federal jurisdiction. Drug-related crimes can involve complex networks of drug dealers, organized crime, and large-scale trafficking operations. The penalties for federal drug offenses are severe, often carrying long prison sentences and significant fines. Federal agencies like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the FBI devote substantial resources to investigating and dismantling drug trafficking organizations. The consequences for those convicted can be far-reaching, especially when the case involves large quantities of drugs, interstate distribution, or the involvement of dangerous criminal organizations.

Immigration Violations: Immigration-related federal charges include a variety of offenses, such as illegal entry into the United States, human trafficking, visa fraud, and the unlawful employment of foreign nationals. These violations can carry severe legal consequences, including deportation, lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and permanent bars from reentering the U.S. Immigration offenses often require coordination between multiple federal agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Money Laundering: Money laundering is the act of concealing the origins of illegally gained money, typically by making illicit funds appear legitimate. This process often involves a series of complex financial transactions and the use of various financial institutions or businesses to hide the true source of the money. Money laundering is closely associated with other criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, fraud, terrorism financing, and organized crime. Federal agencies like the FBI, DOJ, and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) work tirelessly to identify and prosecute individuals and organizations involved in money laundering schemes. These cases are notoriously complex, requiring specialized financial analysis and forensic accounting. Penalties for money laundering can be severe, including long prison sentences and substantial fines, especially when the laundering process involves large sums of money or international financial systems.

Cybercrimes: Cybercrimes have become an increasing focus of federal law enforcement as technology continues to evolve and integrate into every aspect of daily life. These offenses include hacking, identity theft, online fraud, data breaches, and various other illegal activities conducted over the internet or through digital networks. Cybercrimes can involve individuals or groups committing crimes across state and international borders, making federal jurisdiction essential in prosecuting these offenses. Federal agencies like the FBI’s Cyber Division, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are heavily involved in investigating cybercrimes. These crimes are often sophisticated, involving advanced technical skills, and can result in significant financial loss, identity theft, and harm to both individuals and businesses. Because of the global nature of the internet, cybercrimes can also pose substantial risks to national security, making them a priority for federal authorities.

Terrorism-Related Offenses: Federal terrorism-related charges target individuals or groups suspected of engaging in activities that threaten national security or the safety of U.S. citizens. These offenses can include planning or carrying out attacks on U.S. soil, financing terrorist activities, or providing material support to foreign terrorist organizations. Terrorism charges are some of the most serious crimes in federal law, as they pose a direct threat to public safety and national security. Federal agencies like the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the CIA focus heavily on investigating and preventing terrorist activities. Due to the significant risks associated with terrorism, these charges are aggressively prosecuted, with the potential for long prison sentences or even life imprisonment for those convicted. The U.S. government also coordinates with international intelligence agencies to address terrorism that transcends national borders, increasing the complexity and global scope of such cases.

Firearms Offenses: Federal firearms charges involve the illegal possession, trafficking, or use of firearms in violation of federal law. These offenses can range from the unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon to the illegal trafficking of firearms across state lines. The federal government treats gun-related crimes with the utmost seriousness, especially when they involve individuals prohibited from owning firearms, such as convicted felons, those with restraining orders, or individuals under certain mental health conditions. Additionally, firearms charges are particularly concerning when the weapons are used in the commission of other serious crimes, such as robbery, assault, or homicide. Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), are heavily involved in investigating and prosecuting firearms offenses. The penalties for these crimes can be severe, including long prison sentences, substantial fines, and other significant legal consequences, particularly when they involve trafficking, organized crime, or acts of violence.

Licensing Issues and Related Legal Matters

Beyond criminal defense, Robet Almonte assists clients with licensing issues and related legal matters. His ability to navigate the regulatory landscape ensures that clients maintain compliance and protect their professional interests.

Client-Focused Approach

Robert Almonte’s practice is defined by a client-focused approach, emphasizing personalized legal strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. His commitment to understanding his clients’ needs and objectives, combined with his strategic acumen, positions him as a trusted advisor and advocate.

In summary, Robert Almonte’s comprehensive expertise in criminal defense, coupled with his strategic and client-centered methodology, makes him a leading choice for individuals facing complex legal challenges in Texas and beyond.

The following pages provide more detail about Robert’s practice areas.