What to Do If Facing a Federal Computer Data Charge

 Posted on February 28, 2024 in Criminal Defense

If you have been accused of a federal computer or data crime, it is important to take action immediately to protect yourself. As a Texas resident, you have certain rights and options under state cybercrime laws, even when facing federal charges. A Texas lawyer can help you with the steps to take if you are in this situation.

Avoid Further Computer Use Related to the Charges

Once you learn you are under investigation or formally face cybercrime accusations, you must immediately stop all computer activities that may relate to the charges. Do not access any computers, devices, networks, servers, or data that could further implicate you.

Tampering with evidence or obstructing the investigation can lead to additional felony counts against you. Do not take any chances and completely avoid all relevant computer systems until your lawyer gives the all-clear.

Look at All Your Possible Choices

Once you have a lawyer in your corner, you will be able to weigh different options for responding to federal charges better. Your attorney will closely examine the evidence, pinpoint any flaws in the prosecution’s arguments, discuss potential plea bargain deals if those make sense, and start prepping the best case to take to trial if needed while following Texas statutes.

There also may be alternatives that apply specifically to first-time cybercrime offenses. For instance, your lawyer may explain that under state law, some data privacy violations can grant you deferred adjudication instead of jail time if you meet strict probation rules over a set period. Make sure you grasp the full range of possible paths ahead so you can make fully informed choices.

Explore Possible Defenses

There are often strong defense strategies to mitigate or fight the charges under Texas state law. Certain defense claims available for cybercrimes depend heavily on the specifics and nuances of the allegations. Potential defenses to explore include:

• Showing you had authorized access to any computers or data involved
• Demonstrating you had no intent or willingness to deprive owners of the property
• Providing consent from owners for access

Other defensive strategies may involve suppressing evidence improperly collected or statements unfairly obtained if missteps occurred during law enforcement’s investigation. The range of possible defenses underscores why quickly retaining skilled legal representation is critical when facing federal computer crime accusations.

Contact a Fort Worth, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have allegations of a federal cybercrime, working with a Plano, TX criminal defense attorney is critical to help protect your rights, build your best defense under state laws, and represent your best interests every step. Call The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. at 214-544-0061 for a free consultation.