What is the difference between a federal and state criminal charge in Missouri?

Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice in federal district court, carry mandatory minimum sentences, and have no parole. State charges are prosecuted by county prosecutors in Missouri circuit courts. Federal cases involve far greater prosecutorial resources and a conviction rate exceeding 90%.

Do I need an attorney admitted to federal court?

Yes. Only attorneys admitted to the specific federal district court can represent you in federal proceedings. Jeff Goldfarb is admitted to practice in four federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

What should I do if federal agents want to question me?

Do not answer any questions without an attorney present. Politely tell agents you wish to speak with your attorney first, then stop talking. Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately.

Practice Area

Federal Criminal Defense in Missouri

Federal charges are a different level of serious. Jeff Goldfarb has spent decades in federal courtrooms — and he knows how to fight back.

Call 314-266-9999 Text Me Now

Federal vs. State Criminal Cases

Federal criminal cases differ from state cases in important ways. Federal prosecutors have more resources, longer investigative timelines, and higher conviction rates than their state counterparts. Federal sentencing guidelines are strict and often result in longer sentences than comparable state offenses. And unlike state court, there is no parole in the federal system — defendants serve at least 85% of their sentence.

The Federal Criminal Process

Federal cases typically begin with an investigation — often lasting months or years — before charges are filed. Investigators may use wiretaps, informants, grand jury subpoenas, and search warrants. A grand jury indictment is required for most federal felonies. After indictment, the case proceeds through arraignment, pretrial motions, and either a plea or trial. The entire process can take a year or more from indictment to verdict.

Grand Jury Investigations

If you have received a grand jury subpoena or been contacted by federal agents, you may be a target or subject of a federal investigation even if you have not been charged. What you say — and what you do not say — at this stage can have enormous consequences. Jeff advises clients through grand jury proceedings and works to resolve matters before an indictment is returned whenever possible.

Jeff's Federal Court Experience

Jeff is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri, the Southern District of Illinois, and the District of Columbia. He has represented clients in federal cases involving drug trafficking, fraud, conspiracy, firearms, and violent crimes. His experience in federal court means he understands the culture, the judges, and the prosecutors — and how to use that knowledge to your advantage.