Federal Crime FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between state and federal crimes?
2. State crimes are handled by local, State courts and are violations of local, State statutes or ordinances. Federal crimes consist of sentencing under United States Code and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, as dictated by federal judges and a formula taking into account criminal history and offense.
3. Can a Convicted Felon ever possess a Firearm?
4. Federal law prohibits any person who has ever been "convicted in any court of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year" to ever or for any reason "possess... any firearm or ammunition." 18 U.S.C. 922(g) makes it a federal crime for any person... Click here to learn more about Felon Firearm Laws.
5. What is the distinction between drug possession and intent to distribute?
6. Possession with intent to distribute (PWID) is a more severe extension of the charge of drug possession. Read more about PWID and drug possession here.
7. What constitutes a "white collar" crime?
8. Usually defined as a nonviolent crime committed by a person of high social stature and respectability in relation to their occupation; includes crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and SEC violations.
9. What is the federal court system of Texas?
10. The Texas federal court consists of four district courts, Northern, Eastern, Southern, and Western, and four district bankruptcy courts.
11. What is the federal criminal process?
12. Read John Teakell's white paper on the federal criminal process here
13. What Constitutes an Unreasonable Search and Seizure under the Fourth Amendment?
14. The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution is perhaps one of the most frequently litigated constitutional amendments in the courts. The purpose of the Fourth Amendment is to protect "the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures." Click here to learn more about unreasonable search and seizure.
15. Who can own a Gun under Federal Law?
16. While the Courts have never brightly defined under the law who actually has a right to own a firearm, for decades the presumption has always been that there is no individual right bestowed upon the citizens of this country. However, things may soon change if some have their way. Click here to learn more about Federal Gun Ownership.