Federal Firearms Charges
Federal Firearms Charges Defense Attorney in Houston
The Law Offices of James Alston
Federal firearms charges are among the most serious criminal offenses prosecuted in a United States District Court. Gun cases often involve mandatory minimum sentences, sentencing enhancements, and significant federal prison exposure, particularly when allegations include prior felony convictions, drug trafficking activity, or possession of a weapon during a violent offense.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal gun offense in Houston or the Southern District of Texas, experienced legal representation is critical from the outset.
James Alston is a Houston criminal defense attorney with more than 30 years of criminal law experience, including service as a former Assistant United States Attorney. He understands how federal prosecutors investigate firearm cases, apply federal statutes, and pursue enhanced penalties—and he uses that knowledge to defend individuals facing serious federal weapons allegations.
Former Federal Prosecutor With Extensive Federal Court Experience
Before entering private practice, James Alston served as an Assistant United States Attorney, prosecuting serious federal criminal matters. Today, he applies that insider perspective to defending clients accused of federal firearms offenses and related felony charges.
He brings:
- Over three decades of criminal law experience
- More than 20 years practicing in federal court
- Hundreds of federal criminal cases handled in Houston
- Board Certification in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
This background provides valuable insight into:
- how federal firearm investigations are developed
- how prosecutors apply sentencing enhancements
- how evidence is presented to the grand jury and at trial
- when charges or enhancements may be challenged
For individuals facing federal gun allegations, federal-level experience matters.
Common Federal Firearms Charges
The Law Offices of James Alston represents clients accused of a wide range of federal gun and weapons offenses, including:
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking
- Use or carrying of a firearm during a violent crime
- Unlawful firearm possession
- Unlawful transfer of a firearm or Straw Purchasing of a firearm
- Firearm conspiracy charges
- Firearm trafficking charges
- Cases involving sentencing enhancements or mandatory minimum penalties
Many federal firearms prosecutions are closely tied to drug investigations or alleged violent conduct, increasing both legal complexity and potential punishment.
Mandatory Minimums and Federal Sentencing Exposure
Federal gun convictions may carry severe sentencing consequences, including:
- mandatory minimum prison terms under federal law
- enhanced penalties for prior convictions or multiple firearms
- consecutive sentences tied to drug trafficking or violent crime allegations
- long periods of supervised release following imprisonment
Because federal sentencing laws are complex and unforgiving, early and strategic defense representation is essential.
Early Defense in Federal Firearm Investigations
Federal firearms cases frequently begin before an arrest, often involving:
- surveillance or confidential informants
- search warrants and firearm seizures
- joint federal-state task force investigations
- grand jury subpoenas or target letters
What occurs during this early stage can significantly influence:
- whether federal charges are filed
- which statutes or enhancements are alleged
- overall sentencing exposure
Prompt legal representation may help:
- protect constitutional rights
- challenge unlawful searches or seizures
- limit damaging statements or evidence
- position the case for dismissal, reduction, or strategic resolution
Strategic Defense for Serious Federal Gun Allegations
Defending federal firearm charges often requires:
- detailed analysis of search warrants and seizure procedures
- challenges to possession, knowledge, or intent
- examination of forensic and digital evidence
- evaluation of alleged connections to drug trafficking or violence
- negotiation when appropriate
- preparation for federal trial when necessary
Every case demands a carefully developed, evidence-driven defense strategy tailored to the specific allegations and risks.
Speak With a Houston Federal Firearms Defense Attorney
If you are under investigation or charged with a federal firearm offense in Houston, do not wait to seek experienced legal counsel.
Contact The Law Offices of James Alston
📞 (713) 280-5615
to schedule a confidential consultation.
Early action can make a critical difference in a federal firearms case.
