Blog

When you stand accused of breaking a federal law in Georgia, it is highly likely that you will have to face a federal criminal trial. These trials can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially if this is your first experience with the criminal justice system. Understanding what to expect in a federal criminal trial in Georgia is often the first step in knowing how to make informed decisions. At The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman, we’re here to help.

The Steps of a Federal Criminal Trial in Georgia

In 2024 alone, over 14 million criminal offenses were reported to the FBI, and while federal arrests decreased by 3% in 2023, nearly two million individuals are still incarcerated in the United States today. When an individual is charged with a federal crime, their case will be handled through a federal court, and it is wise to be aware of the steps involved in a federal criminal trial. These steps can include:

• Opening statements: The trial will start when the prosecutor and the defense attorney make their opening statements to the court. They will relay information to the jury regarding the charged crime and their side of the story, and they will lay out the basic facts that each side is ready to prove. The jury will also be reminded that the prosecution must be able to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
• The prosecution’s case: The federal prosecutor will go first, calling upon witnesses and showcasing various forms of alleged evidence to prove that the defendant is, in fact, guilty of the supposed crime. The prosecution will also likely ask for the testimony of any federal agent who was involved in or investigated the case. In this step, your attorney is allowed to cross-examine any witnesses in order to raise doubt.
• The defendant’s case: Your defense attorney will then be given their chance to present your defense strategy, which can involve expert testimony, evidence, and statements made by eyewitnesses.
• Objections: During any direct or cross-examination, both the defense attorney and the prosecuting attorney are allowed to make objections to the court.
• Closing statements: Once your defense lawyer has rested their case, the closing statements will be made. Similar to the opening statements, both sides of the case can present their arguments to summarize all testimony and evidence and request that the jury return the verdict they are hoping for.
• Sentencing: If the jury reaches a guilty verdict, the case will move to sentencing. Federal sentencing will follow the U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines and consider the severity of the crime and the record of the defendant when determining the penalties they should face, such as imprisonment, fines, probation, or restitution. Sentencing itself could take several months to complete in a federal court trial.

About The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman

For over 25 years now, The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman has been working to defend individuals in federal court trial proceedings. Mr. Zimmerman understands that this is a frightening time for you and your family, and he can do everything in his power to ensure that you are defended and justice is served.

Mr. Zimmerman has years of experience fighting for the men and women who find themselves standing trial in federal courts throughout Georgia. Whether you are standing trial in the Northern District of Georgia at the Atlanta division courthouse, located on Ted Turner Drive SW, or the Middle District of Georgia, such as at the Albany division courthouse on West Broad Avenue in Albany, Mr. Zimmerman is here to fight for you.

FAQs

What Are the Most Common Federal Criminal Offenses in GA?

There are several federal criminal offenses that take place in Georgia. These can include theft, sex offenses, such as child molestation, rape, and sexual assault and battery, aggravated assault cases, vehicular homicide cases, drug trafficking or possession crimes, probation violations, and certain violent crime and gang crime charges. If you have been charged with any of these crimes, your case will likely be heard at the federal level.

How Does Jury Selection Work in a Federal Court Trial?

In a federal criminal trial, jury selection is one of the most integral steps. In most cases, jury selection will start with around forty or so potential jurors. These jurors are then cycled through and asked a series of questions by both sides of the case – the prosecution and the defense. Then we will deliberate on who we choose to stand on the jury, the court will ask for strikes to occur, and the jury will be selected.

Who Is Involved in a Federal Trial Court Proceeding?

In a federal trial court proceeding, several parties will be involved, and it is wise to be aware of these parties before heading into your first trial scenario. These parties will include a judge, a trial jury or a grand jury, depending on the charges involved in the trial, a federal prosecutor, and your defense attorney.

How to Defend Against a Federal Criminal Charge?

There are several different defense strategies that can be used in a federal criminal charge case, depending on the nature of that charge. First, your attorney may be able to challenge the evidence that the prosecution has presented by arguing that the evidence was illegally obtained. They may also be able to argue that you did not intend to commit the crime or were even aware that your actions were criminal.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

When facing federal criminal charges in Georgia, you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you learn you are under investigation. The stakes are high in these cases, and it is crucial to have an attorney on your side who can ensure your freedoms and rights are protected. If you have been charged with a federal crime, call The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman today and schedule your free and confidential consultation with our team.