Hillsborough County Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you are looking for a Hillsborough County, FL federal criminal defense lawyer, itโs important to find a team that understands investigations, indictments, and sentencing strategy. Stechschulte Nell is led by a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer recognized by Super Lawyers with an Avvo 10.0 rating. Reach out for a free consultation.
Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Hillsborough County, FL
Federal cases are built long before an arrest. Our Federal defense lawyers start by identifying your status with the government, whether you are a witness, a subject, or a target. Then we control communications, review subpoenas and preservation requests, and evaluate whether a pre-indictment resolution is realistic. In white collar matters, we test loss and causation with forensic accountants and separate business risk from crime. In conspiracy or public corruption counts, we map timelines and roles, so your actual conduct is not overstated by association. If searches or seizures occurred, we challenge warrants for probable cause, scope, and staleness, and we litigate suppression when agents exceeded authority.
Discovery in federal court follows specific rules, so we press for Rule 16 materials, Brady and Giglio disclosures, and timely production of Jencks statements. Where electronic data drives the case, we examine collection methods, chain of custody, and whether the government exceeded the warrant in imaging devices. If agents request an interview, our federal criminal defense counselors discuss proffer agreements, Kastigar protections, and the risks of speaking at all, then make a plan that fits your goals rather than the governmentโs timetable. Parallel civil, administrative, or forfeiture proceedings are coordinated so choices in one arena do not harm your position in another.
Guideline exposure shapes decisions from the start. We calculate offense levels, enhancements, grouping, criminal history, and relevant conduct to provide a realistic range. We look for ways to change that math, such as minor role, loss challenges, safety valve in qualifying cases, acceptance of responsibility, and departures or variances under 18 U.S.C. ยง 3553(a). Mitigation matters. Work history, family support, treatment progress, community service, and restitution plans can shift outcomes at negotiation and sentencing. Our federal criminal defense attorneys prepare for pretrial release with packages that reduce detention risk, using verifiable housing, employment, third party custodians, and conditions like location monitoring so you can participate in your defense.
When trial is appropriate, we build a tight theory and keep the case focused. Our Hillsborough County criminal defense lawyers file targeted motions, seek exclusion of unreliable opinions, and prepare cross examinations that address credibility, intent, and identification directly. Visual timelines, financial flow charts, and phone location maps help jurors understand complicated facts without confusion. If a negotiated resolution serves you better, we work on charge selections, factual bases that limit collateral effects, and sentencing presentations that highlight your positive record and specific plans for the future. Through every step, you receive plain language updates, a calendar of deadlines, and clear choices so you can make informed decisions.
Why Experience Matters In Federal Defense
Preparation and perspective change outcomes. Our law teams has:
โข Years defending federal charges and guiding clients through sentencing and supervised release.
โข Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer leading every stage.
โข Super Lawyers, Avvo 10.0, Avvo Clientโs Choice Awards.
โข Forensic accountants, digital professionals, and mitigation professionals available.
โAfter being prosecuted wrongfully with a clean history and no prior criminal charges, I was recommended to Ben. In no time, Ben took care of case and was openly transparent throughout the whole process. I can’t thank Ben’s professionalism and realism, and for making a scary situation, a more calm and easy situation to sleep on. I was very pleased with the closing of the case and would recommend Ben’s experience to anyone. Thank you Ben! โ Giovanny R.
Stechschulte Nell provides organized defense and steady communication. Reach out for a free consultation and put a plan in motion today.
Types Of Federal Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
At Stechschulte Nell, we represent clients facing a wide range of federal charges. Federal cases often carry higher stakes because they involve investigations by agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or ATF, and are prosecuted in federal court. Each case is unique, and our approach is centered on understanding the facts, reviewing the evidence, and developing a strategy that fits the circumstances of the charge. Discover how our Hillsborough County, FL federal criminal defense lawyer can help today!
Drug Trafficking And Distribution
We frequently defend individuals accused of federal drug trafficking or distribution offenses. These cases can involve controlled substances like cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, or prescription medications. Federal prosecutors often rely on surveillance, recorded communications, or evidence collected during searches. We examine how that evidence was obtained, whether warrants were properly issued, and whether any of our clientโs rights were violated. We bring over 20 years of experience, and itโs our mission to represent our clients to the fullest extent.
Firearms And Weapons Offenses
Federal weapons charges often stem from allegations of unlawful possession, transportation, or use of firearms. These cases can also involve claims that a weapon was used in connection with another offense, such as drug trafficking or robbery. Our defense strategy focuses on the facts surrounding how the firearm was discovered and whether the charges accurately reflect the clientโs actions. Our Hillsborough County federal criminal defense lawyer will thoroughly review the details of your case. Our attorneys have received different distinctions throughout their legal careers, including being highly rated by Avvo.
White Collar And Financial Crimes
We also handle cases involving federal financial or white-collar charges such as fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, or identity theft. These cases typically rely on a large amount of documentation and digital evidence. Our team reviews financial records, electronic communications, and business transactions to determine whether the prosecutionโs claims can be supported. Our goal is to present a full and accurate picture of the situation so that our clients receive fair treatment under the law.
Internet And Cyber Crimes
As technology continues to evolve, federal authorities are increasingly pursuing charges related to online conduct. These cases may involve allegations of hacking, data theft, or illegal online activity. Because federal cyber investigations often involve multiple agencies and digital forensics, we focus on the integrity of the evidence collected. We review how information was obtained and whether investigators had proper authorization to access or seize digital data.
Public Corruption And Government Investigations
Some clients come to us after being contacted during federal investigations involving public corruption, misuse of funds, or misconduct by government employees. These situations can have serious consequences, even for individuals who are not directly accused of wrongdoing. Our role is to protect our clients during questioning, prevent unnecessary exposure, and respond to investigative requests in a way that protects their interests.
Federal charges can affect every part of a personโs lifeโcareer, reputation, and personal freedom. Acting quickly and working with a defense team that understands federal court procedures is essential. Call us today at Stechschulte Nell to work with our Hillsborough County federal criminal defense lawyer!










