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Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Cameron County, Janie Jaimez, Attorney at Law

Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Cameron County
Janie Jaimez, Attorney at Law

Federal charges are different from state charges: different prosecutors, different court, different sentencing rules, and far less room for error. Cases out of Cameron County are heard in the Southern District of Texas, Brownsville Division. Janie Jaimez is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, and as a former prosecutor, she understands how federal cases are built and investigated long before an indictment is filed. Se habla español. Call 956-793-5033 for a consultation.

Types of Federal Charges We Defend in Cameron County

  • Illegal Reentry: federal charges under 8 U.S.C. § 1326 for a noncitizen found in the U.S. after a prior removal or deportation. 

  • Drug Possession: federal drug possession charges, distinct from trafficking, when someone is found with a controlled substance without an accompanying distribution charge. 

  • Firearm Possession: federal charges for unlawful possession of a firearm, including felon-in-possession cases. 

Why Federal Charges Are Different

Federal cases carry higher stakes than most state charges. Federal prosecutors typically have more resources and more time to build a case before an arrest happens, and the federal system has no parole, so a sentence is served close to in full. Every point here needs Janie's confirmation before publishing.

What Janie Reviews in Every Federal Case

  • How the investigation was conducted, and whether it was conducted lawfully

  • Whether the government can prove every element of the charge, including intent

  • Whether a plea negotiation or a reduced charge is realistic given the evidence

  • How sentencing guidelines apply to the specific facts

  • Immigration and professional licensing consequences where relevant

Charged with a Federal Crime in Cameron County?

Call 956-793-5033 or fill out the contact form below for a consultation. Bilingual. Former prosecutor.

Janie Jaimez, criminal defense attorney, smiling in a black blazer

Cameron County Federal Crimes FAQs

Quick answers to the questions we hear most—so you know what to do next.

What's the difference between a state charge and a federal charge?

Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office rather than the county district attorney, are heard in federal court rather than state court, and generally carry more severe sentencing rules with less flexibility.

Do I need a federal defense attorney specifically, or can any criminal defense lawyer handle a federal case?

Federal court requires an attorney to be separately admitted to practice there. Not every criminal defense lawyer is.

Can a federal charge be resolved without going to trial?

Many federal cases resolve through plea negotiations. Whether that's the right path depends entirely on the evidence and the specific charge.

Janie Jaimez Law logo – Brownsville & Harlingen criminal defense attorney handling misdemeanors, felonies, and juvenile criminal cases

29 Avalon Dr, Brownsville, TX 78520

j.jaimezlaw@gmail.com

(956) 793-5033

(281) 779-4053

Serving the Rio Grande Valley

 

Charged with a Federal Crime?
Get Help Now

What can Janie help you with?

Your information is confidential and protected under attorney-client rules

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