Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Orlando, FL
Defending Federal Criminal Cases in Orlando & Central Florida
Dan Eckhart Law is an experienced Orlando federal criminal defense law firm representing individuals facing federal crimes and federal criminal charges in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. With more than 30 years of experience in federal court and approximately 1,500 federal court appearances, Dan Eckhart provides the level of federal defense expertise serious cases demand.
If you are charged with a federal crime or under a federal criminal investigation, working with a seasoned Orlando federal criminal defense attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Areas of Practice
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, especially in complex cases involving federal agencies and severe penalties. I defend clients across these practice areas with a focused strategy designed to protect their rights, their reputation, and their future.
White Collar Criminal Defense
White Collar Criminal Defense
The consequences of criminal investigations and prosecutions can run the spectrum, from a routine interview or “knock and talk” by law enforcement, to months-long investigation to months or years in prison. Given the fact of your case, Dan Eckhart can mitigate your exposure during discreet and productive negotiations with state or federal prosecutors. His ultimate goal is to persuade authorities to forego prosecution, decline charging you with a criminal offense…
Money Laundering Defense
Money Laundering Defense
As a Special Agent and Federal Prosecutor, Dan Eckhart investigated and prosecuted dozens of significant federal money laundering cases. In furtherance of these investigations, attorney Dan Eckhart has worked at various U.S. Embassies with a number of foreign law enforcement agencies to include the Mexican National Police, the Federal Police of Brazil, the Republic of Ireland’s An Garda Siochana, Criminal Assets Bureau, the Panamanian National Police, and more…
Asset Forfeiture Defense
Asset Forfeiture Defence
Criminal forfeiture can be part of a federal or state prosecution action and requires the government to identify property used or derived from criminal activity. This can include real property, currency, bank accounts, vehicles, aircraft, jewelry, etc. An experienced forfeiture lawyer can help negotiate forfeiture matters before indictment as well as during the plea bargaining process…
Drugs
Drugs
Drug trafficking is a very serious offense that can be charged in either state or federal court. It involves the movement of large quantities of controlled substances (Marijuana, Cocaine, Heroin, etc.) for distribution and is usually charged in addition to conspiracy and money laundering…
Firearms
Firearms
Prosecutors also allege a firearm offense if there is a weapon present or an accused is a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Drug trafficking and firearms convictions can lead to minimum mandatory prison sentences and it is crucial that clients retain an experienced former federal agent and prosecutor, like attorney Dan Eckhart, to provide them with the best defense possible…
Child Pornography
Child Pornography
Attorney Dan Eckhart defends individuals facing child pornography and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) allegations. These cases rely heavily on digital forensics and electronic evidence.
As a former federal prosecutor, he provides a non-judgmental, strategic defense focused on protecting his clients’ rights and future.
Whistleblower
Whistleblower
Federal False Claims Act cases can take years to resolve and damages may be up to three times the government’s losses plus penalties for each false claim. A whistleblower’s reward is contingent on a number of factors. If the government intervenes and recovers funds, the whistleblower is entitled to 15 percent to 25 percent of the recovery…
Bank Fraud
Bank Fraud
Attorney Dan Eckhart has personally conducted internal investigations in both the public and private sector and can provide government regulators and/or law enforcement with arguments as to why matters should be resolved without criminal charges…
Federal Criminal Defense at Every Stage in Orlando
Dan Eckhart represents individuals facing criminal charges at every stage of the process, from pre-arrest investigations through trial and appeal. Dan Eckhart criminal defense services cover both state and federal matters, with a strategic, results-driven approach tailored to each case.
Pre-Indictment & Federal Criminal Investigations
Dan Eckhart represents individuals under federal investigation, advising on subpoenas and agency matters involving the FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, and ATF to help prevent indictments.
Federal Arrests & Indictments
I provides immediate defense for clients arrested, served with a federal summons, or formally charged in federal court.
Federal Detention & Bond Hearings
Dan Eckhart represents clients at federal detention and bond hearings, where certain offenses carry a presumption of detention and release standards differ from state court, ensuring your rights are protected.
Grand Jury Investigations
I provides strategic counsel during federal grand jury investigations, guiding clients on subpoenas, testimony decisions, and protecting their constitutional rights.
Federal Motion Practice
Dan Eckhart handles federal motion practice, including motions to suppress evidence, challenge search warrants, and seek dismissal of cases based on violations of federal law.
Plea Negotiations & Cooperation Agreements
My practice involves negotiating plea deals, cooperation agreements, and sentencing reductions with federal prosecutors in complex federal criminal cases.
Federal Sentencing Advocacy
Preparing sentencing memoranda and advocating for reduced exposure under the federal sentencing guidelines.
Federal Trials & Appeals
Dan Eckhart represents clients in federal jury trials and handles post-conviction appeals within the federal court system.
Why Clients in Orlando Choose Dan Eckhart Law
Orlando has many criminal defense lawyers, but very few who focus almost exclusively on federal criminal defense. Clients choose Dan Eckhart Law because proven federal court experience delivers better outcomes.
Key differentiators include:
- 30+ years of experience handling federal criminal cases
- Approximately 1,500 appearances before a federal judge
- Former federal government attorney (23 years)
- A practice focused on federal crimes defense, not volume-based cases
- Direct access to your defense attorney
- Strategic, responsive representation in serious proceedings
When facing serious federal charges, having an experienced Orlando federal crime lawyer on your side matters.
Proven Defense. Trusted by Our Clients.
Office Location & Visiting Hours
Dan Eckhart Law is based in Orlando, Florida, and serves clients throughout Central Florida and nationwide in federal court matters. Meetings are by appointment to ensure privacy and focused attention on your case.
If you are facing a federal investigation or criminal charges, contact our office immediately to begin building a strong, strategic defense.
Federal Jurisdiction Serving Orlando & Central Florida
Most Orlando federal criminal cases are prosecuted in the Middle District of Florida, which handles federal criminal charges and proceedings arising throughout Central Florida.
Dan Eckhart Law represents clients in:
- Orange County
- Seminole County
- Osceola County
- Lake County
- Polk County
Although Orlando is the primary service area, Dan Eckhart is admitted to practice in federal courts nationwide and regularly represents clients prosecuted in federal court outside Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions About
Orlando Federal Criminal Defense
Do you represent clients before federal charges are filed?
Yes. Pre-indictment representation is a critical part of Dan Eckhart’s practice. Early involvement during a federal investigation can influence charging decisions, protect constitutional rights, and sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.
What types of federal criminal cases does Dan Eckhart handle?
Yes. Pre-indictment representation is a critical part of Dan Eckhart’s practice. Early involvement during a federal investigation can influence charging decisions, protect constitutional rights, and sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.
What should I do if federal agents want to speak with me?
You should not speak with federal agents without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you. Dan Eckhart regularly advises clients during federal investigations involving agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, or ATF.
How is federal criminal court different from state court?
Federal criminal cases operate under different rules, procedures, and sentencing structures. Federal courts follow strict sentencing guidelines, detention standards are tougher, and cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office rather than state prosecutors.
Can you help if I’ve been arrested or indicted in federal court?
Yes. We provide immediate representation for clients arrested for federal crimes, served with federal indictments, or summoned to federal court. Early strategy is often critical to the outcome of the case.
Do you handle federal grand jury investigations?
Yes. Dan Eckhart advises clients involved in federal grand jury matters, including subpoena compliance, testimony decisions, and Fifth Amendment protections. Strategic guidance at this stage can shape the entire case.
Do most federal criminal cases go to trial?
No. The majority of federal cases resolve through negotiated pleas. However, trial preparation and leverage are essential. Dan Eckhart has extensive experience handling federal trials when trial is the best option.
Will I work directly with my attorney throughout the case?
Yes. Clients work directly with Dan Eckhart at every stage of the case. There are no associates, junior attorneys, or intermediaries.
Can you represent me if my federal case is outside Orlando?
Yes. Although Orlando is the primary service area, Dan Eckhart is admitted to practice in federal courts nationwide and regularly represents clients in federal cases outside Florida.
When should I contact a federal criminal defense attorney?
As soon as possible. If you are under investigation, have received a subpoena, or believe you may be charged, early involvement by an experienced federal criminal defense attorney often provides the greatest strategic advantage.
Speak With an Orlando Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing federal charges in Orlando & Central Florida, timing is critical. Early representation by an experienced federal criminal defense attorney like Dan Eckhart can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
Schedule a confidential consultation with Dan Eckhart