Award-winning federal criminal defense attorneys
A proven track record of success defending federal charges nationwide, from the first contact with agents through trial. Free, confidential consultations.
20,000+ Criminal cases handled
- AV Preeminent® Martindale-Hubbell · 2026
- Client Champion Gold Martindale-Hubbell · 2026
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Perfect 10.0
Superb rating
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50+ reviews
Five-star
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1,000+ reviews
Five-star
- A+ Rated BBB Accredited Business
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Top 100 Trial Lawyers
The National Trial Lawyers
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Top Lawyer
Columbus CEO
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Member
American Association for Justice
We defend people facing federal charges across the country. With 20,000+ criminal cases handled and a proven track record of success, we know how federal cases are built, and how to challenge them.
Federal crimes we defend
From white-collar fraud to drug and firearm charges, in U.S. District Courts nationwide.
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Health Care Fraud
FraudMedicare and Medicaid billing, kickback and false claims investigations and charges.
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Wire Fraud
FraudAlleged schemes that use phone, email or the internet to obtain money or property.
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Mail Fraud
FraudCharges based on the use of the postal service or private carriers in an alleged scheme.
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Bank Fraud
FraudLoan, check and account fraud charges involving federally insured institutions.
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Money Laundering
FinancialCharges tied to moving or concealing funds alleged to come from unlawful activity.
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Computer Fraud
CyberHacking, unauthorized access and other charges under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.
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Drug Crimes
DrugsFederal trafficking, distribution and conspiracy charges, including mandatory minimums.
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Gun Crimes
FirearmsFelon in possession, firearm trafficking and other federal weapons charges.
How we defend federal cases
We protect every client like our own, from the first call to the final hearing.
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Step in early
If federal agents contact you or you receive a target letter, we step in before you make statements that can be used against you.
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Dissect the evidence
We review the government’s evidence and look for every way to have charges reduced or dismissed, including suppression and other pretrial motions.
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Negotiate or go to trial
We negotiate with federal prosecutors when it serves you, and we’re ready to take your case to trial when it doesn’t.
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Fight at sentencing
If a case ends in a plea or conviction, we push for the lowest possible sentence under the federal guidelines.
Federal criminal defense lawyers, nationwide
Federal charges are prosecuted in U.S. District Courts across the country. We represent clients facing federal charges in:
Facing charges somewhere else? Call us. We may still be able to help.
Meet our federal defense team
Together, our team has handled more than 20,000 criminal cases.
Brian Joslyn
Managing attorney
Ryan Shafer
Angie Joslyn
Bess Sommerfelt
Tamas Tabor
Mackenzie Burse
Kelsey Rosenberg
Natalie Shuttleworth
Federal criminal defense FAQs
Clear advice. Real answers. No pressure.
Every federal case is different. Tell us what happened and an attorney will walk you through your options.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. Consultations are free and confidential, and we answer 24/7 at (614) 444-1900.
I received a target letter. What should I do?
Talk to a federal criminal defense attorney before you respond or speak with anyone. A target letter means prosecutors see you as a putative defendant, and early representation can shape what happens next.
Should I talk to federal agents without a lawyer?
No. Agents from the FBI, DEA, IRS or other agencies don’t have to keep promises that you won’t be charged, and a false statement to a federal agent is itself a crime. Speak with a defense attorney first.
How are federal charges different from state charges?
Federal cases are brought by U.S. Attorneys, investigated by federal agencies and sentenced under the federal sentencing guidelines, often with longer sentences and mandatory minimums. They call for defense counsel who knows federal court.
Do you handle federal cases nationwide?
Yes. We represent clients facing federal charges across the country, including in Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Ohio.
What is your goal for my case?
From the start, we work to get your charges dismissed outright. When that isn’t possible, we negotiate with prosecutors or challenge the evidence to get the best possible result.
Reviews from clients we’ve defended
A perfect 10.0 on Avvo. Here is what clients say, in their own words.
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You can tell that prosecutors, judges and other lawyers respect him.
Brian is an amazing attorney and I would recommend to my closest family members. Brian Helped me with a criminal charge during a dark period in my life. He was very respectful and made me feel like I was in good hands. It was impressive to watch him take charge in the courtroom and you can tell that prosecutors, judges and other lawyers respect him. He was very knowledgeable and trustworthy and I liked how he was straight with me and didn’t sugar coat things.
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Brian has a very strong presence in the courtroom. My son had all of his charges dismissed!
I have never written a review before. Knowing how important it is to a person’s future I felt that it might benefit others in similar situations to share how caring, knowledgeable and effective Brian was when handling my son’s case. … He answers and returns calls promptly, and is very knowledgeable about the current laws.
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He treats you like you are family and he does not back down in the courtroom.
Brian Joslyn is first class all the way. He treats you like you are family and he does not back down in the courtroom. … His entire office was warm and welcoming, they never treated me like a criminal, they just wanted to help me fix this nightmare in my life.
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Brian has a mastery of his craft. I truly believe he is a rarity among his profession.
Brian Joslyn is an incredible man and an even better attorney. He is an incredibly adept and skilled lawyer and these things showed through every step of the way. He does an amazing job of being both very professional and personable, as he seemed to take a vested personal interest in my case.
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The mere fact that he was able to educate a respected, intelligent Harvard Graduate Judge, speaks volumes on his part.
I am so thankful to Brian for his suggestions, his compassion and his understanding. His support and determination in making sure I was well holistically while defending me whole heartedly has meant so much to me. I could not have asked for a better team than Brian Joslyn and his law firm.
Request a free federal case consultation
Request a free and confidential consultation with a federal criminal defense attorney. Prefer to talk now? We answer 24/7.
