Federal Criminal Defense Blog

Insights from former U.S. Federal Prosecutor John D. Kirby — 25+ years of federal courtroom experience.

What to Do When You Receive a Federal Grand Jury Target Letter

July 6, 2026

A federal grand jury target letter is not a criminal charge — but it is the most serious warning the government sends before indictment. Here is exactly what to do in the first 24 hours.

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Related: 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense — 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense >

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When the FBI Comes to Your Door: Your Rights During a Federal Search Warrant

July 5, 2026

Federal agents at your door executing a search warrant. Know your rights, understand the limits of the warrant, and learn exactly what steps to take during and after a federal search.

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Related: 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense — 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense >

Understanding the Federal Sentencing Guidelines: What Actually Determines Your Sentence

July 4, 2026

The Federal Sentencing Guidelines are the single most important factor in any federal criminal case. A former prosecutor explains how offense levels, criminal history, and departures really work.

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Related: 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense — 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense >

White Collar Federal Investigations: Defending Before Charges Are Filed

July 3, 2026

The pre-indictment phase is the most critical window. Early intervention by experienced defense counsel can prevent charges from ever being filed — or shape the case before it begins.

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Related: 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense — 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense >

Post-Conviction Relief in Federal Cases: Appeals, 2255 Motions, and Sentence Reductions

July 2, 2026

A federal conviction is not the end of the road. Post-conviction relief — from direct appeals to 2255 motions to compassionate release — offers multiple paths to challenge a conviction.

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Related: 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense — 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense >

Federal Criminal Appeals in the Ninth Circuit: Process, Timeline, and Strategy

July 1, 2026

The Ninth Circuit hears federal criminal appeals from nine western states. Understanding the appellate process — from notice of appeal to oral argument — is essential for anyone considering an appeal.

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Related: 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense — 3 Critical Steps to Protect Your Case After the Federal Wiretap Evidence Split | Kirby Law — Federal Criminal Defense >