Facing Federal Charges in Idaho? You Need a Proven Defense Attorney.

Federal investigations and indictments come with steep penalties and aggressive prosecution. Whether you're under investigation or have already been charged, experienced federal defense can make all the difference.

Accused of a Federal Crime? You Need Experienced Defense.

Federal criminal charges carry some of the harshest penalties in the American legal system. If you are under federal investigation or have been indicted by a grand jury, your future is on the line.

With over 15 years of experience practicing in the U.S. District Court for Idaho and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, attorney Dustin R. Marcello is prepared to defend your rights at every stage.

What Makes a Crime “Federal”?

Federal crimes typically involve violations of U.S. statutes found in Title 18 of the United States Code. These offenses often involve federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, or Department of Homeland Security. A crime may be federal if it involves interstate commerce, occurred on federal property, involved federal funds, or violates a federal regulation or law.

Common Federal Criminal Charges

We defend clients charged with a wide range of federal crimes, including:

  • Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy (21 U.S.C. § 841, § 846)
  • Firearm Offenses (18 U.S.C. § 922, § 924)
  • Bank Fraud and Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344, § 1343)
  • Healthcare Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
  • Money Laundering (18 U.S.C. § 1956)
  • Tax Evasion (26 U.S.C. § 7201)
  • Identity Theft and Access Device Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1028, § 1029)
  • Child Exploitation Offenses (18 U.S.C. § 2252, § 2252A)
  • Public Corruption and Bribery (18 U.S.C. § 201)
  • Immigration Offenses (8 U.S.C. § 1326 – Reentry of Removed Aliens)
  • Obstruction of Justice (18 U.S.C. § 1503, § 1512)

Federal Sentencing and Procedure

Federal courts follow the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which assign an offense level and criminal history category to determine a sentencing range. Mandatory minimums apply in many drug and firearm cases. Sentences can range from probation to decades in prison—and federal inmates must serve at least 85% of their sentence.

Federal criminal cases typically include:

  • Grand jury investigations
  • Detention hearings and bail review
  • Suppression motions
  • Plea negotiations and cooperation agreements
  • Jury or bench trials
  • Sentencing hearings
  • Direct appeals to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals

Strategic Federal Criminal Defense

Attorney Dustin R. Marcello provides aggressive, strategic representation in all stages of federal litigation. Whether you’re under investigation, charged in a complex indictment, or seeking appellate relief, you need counsel familiar with federal procedure, evidentiary standards, and sentencing policy.

Our approach includes:

  • Challenging search warrants, surveillance, and electronic evidence
  • Negotiating with U.S. Attorneys for reduced charges
  • Filing pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss counts
  • Crafting compelling sentencing mitigation presentations
  • Preserving appellate issues for review by the Ninth Circuit

Contact an Idaho Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you're facing federal charges in Idaho, the time to act is now.

We serve clients in U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Call (208) 444-4404 or click the button below to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced federal defense attorney.