When it comes to criminal law, not all charges are created equal. In Texas, defendants don’t face state and federal felony charges; they can face either, depending on the nature of the alleged crime and where it occurred. Understanding the difference between these two types of cases is crucial because the penalties, procedures, and courts are very different.
Working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in San Antonio who residents can trust helps ensure that no matter the jurisdiction, your rights are protected.
What Are State Felony Charges?
Most criminal cases in Texas are handled at the state level. State felony charges involve crimes that violate Texas laws and are prosecuted in state courts, typically within the county where the offense occurred. Common examples include:
- Drug possession or distribution under Texas statutes
- Domestic violence cases involving serious injury
- DWI or DUI charges with repeat offenses or aggravating factors
- Theft, burglary, and assault cases
Penalties for state felonies in Texas range from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the degree of the felony. For these cases, hiring a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in San Antonio is essential to navigate local laws and court procedures.
What Are Federal Felony Charges?
Federal felony charges are prosecuted in federal court and involve violations of U.S. laws. These cases often involve agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF. Examples include:
- Large-scale drug trafficking across state or national borders
- White-collar crimes such as fraud or embezzlement
- Firearms violations under federal statutes
- Crimes committed on federal property or involving federal officers
Federal penalties are often harsher, with mandatory minimum sentences in many drug and firearm cases. A skilled Texas criminal defense attorney with federal court experience is vital when facing charges of this magnitude.
Key Differences Between State and Federal Cases
The main differences between state and federal felony charges include:
- Jurisdiction: State courts handle violations of Texas law; federal courts handle violations of U.S. law.
- Investigators: State cases are usually investigated by local police or Texas agencies, while federal cases involve federal agencies.
- Penalties: Federal cases often carry stricter sentences and less flexibility in plea bargaining.
- Resources: Federal prosecutors typically have greater resources to build cases compared to state prosecutors.
This is why defendants should seek representation from a San Antonio criminal defense attorney who understands both systems and can mount an aggressive defense in either setting.
How Defense Strategies Differ
A defense attorney in San Antonio must tailor strategies to the jurisdiction. In state cases, challenges often focus on unlawful searches, weak testimony, or procedural errors. In federal cases, the defense may focus on constitutional violations, improper handling of evidence, or negotiating with federal prosecutors for reduced sentencing.
An experienced felony attorney in San Antonio will know how to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both state and federal charges, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Why Choosing the Right Lawyer Matters
Whether facing state or federal charges, the stakes are high. A San Antonio criminal lawyer can provide local expertise for state cases, while a Texas criminal defense lawyer with federal experience can defend you against more complex prosecutions.
Without strong representation, defendants risk harsher penalties, longer sentences, and fewer options for appeal. That’s why choosing the right criminal law attorney in San Antonio is one of the most important decisions you can make.
Protecting Your Future in Texas
Being charged with a felony, whether state or federal, does not mean conviction is guaranteed. By working with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in San Antonio, TX, you gain an advocate who will fight to protect your rights at every stage of the process.
If you or a loved one is facing state and federal felony charges in Texas, don’t face the system alone. Contact The Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates today for a confidential consultation.
