Arrested by the Feds in Alabama? You’re Not Alone—But You Need to Move Fast
Getting arrested by the federal government is different from a local or state arrest. It’s a serious situation—and the process moves quickly. If you or someone you care about has been taken into custody by federal agents in Alabama, here’s what you need to know right now.
How Federal Arrests Usually Happen in Alabama
In most federal cases, people get arrested after an investigation—not during the heat of the moment. The feds may serve an arrest warrant at your home, work, or during a traffic stop. Agencies involved often include:
- FBI
- DEA
- ATF
- Homeland Security
- U.S. Marshals
Sometimes, people are shocked because they had no idea an indictment was already filed under seal. In other cases, agents may call first and ask someone to “come in”—only to arrest them at the station.
Initial Appearance & Detention Hearing
After a federal arrest, you’ll usually have an initial appearance before a magistrate judge within 24 to 48 hours. At that point:
- You’ll hear what charges you’re facing.
- A U.S. Probation officer will gather background info for the judge.
- You may have a detention hearing to decide whether you’ll be released or held without bond.
Federal judges don’t do “typical bond.” There’s no schedule with fixed amounts. Instead, they look at:
- Flight risk
- Danger to the community
- Criminal history
- Ties to the community
- Strength of the government’s case
If your lawyer isn’t experienced in federal detention hearings, you could be sitting in a detention center waiting for trial for months.
Federal Court Isn’t Like State Court
Federal court in Alabama (Northern, Middle, and Southern Districts) follows a completely different playbook than local courts:
- The prosecutors are Assistant U.S. Attorneys.
- Federal agents have typically been building the case for months.
- You’ll face mandatory minimum sentences in many cases.
- Sentencing guidelines are complex and unforgiving.
Never Talk to Agents Without a Lawyer—Even If You Think You’re Helping Yourself
If federal agents want to talk to you after an arrest, it’s not to help you. Anything you say will be used against you.
Even if you believe you’re innocent—or they “just want to hear your side”—don’t speak without a lawyer present.
We’ve seen people talk their way into a worse sentence or a sealed indictment just by trying to “clear things up.”
Why You Need a Federal Defense Lawyer Immediately
Most lawyers don’t handle federal criminal cases on a regular basis. These cases require:
- Knowledge of federal procedure
- Skill at negotiating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office
- Experience handling bond, discovery, and plea negotiations
At the Law Offices of Johnathan L. Williams, we know the system—and we act fast. You don’t get a second chance at your detention hearing. You don’t want to let the government get too far ahead while your defense lags behind.
We Handle Federal Arrest Cases Across Alabama
Whether the case is in Birmingham, Montgomery, Huntsville, Mobile, Tuscaloosa, or anywhere else in Alabama—our team is ready to act.
We offer emergency consultations and can appear in court quickly. We work with families who are just trying to get answers.
📞 Call Now: 205-573-4752
If your loved one has been arrested by the feds, you don’t have time to wait.
Call (205) 573-4752 right now.
You’ll speak directly with an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer who can start working on your case immediately.