What happens after you are charged
A clear walkthrough of the first steps in the legal process and what to expect.
Read moreFOR FEDERAL DEFENDANTS AND THEIR FAMILIES FACING FEDERAL CHARGES
Surviving the Federal Criminal Justice System Starts with Understanding It
You or someone you care about has been busted by the feds and the system is built to make you feel it is impossible to fight back. Surviving the Feds was created by someone who’s been through it—locked up, fighting to make it through a system stacked against you. He survived it and created this site to give you straightforward information and resources to deal with what’s ahead, explain how the system works, and help you how make good decisions so you survive it.
START HERE
Where would you like to begin?
Whether you’re facing federal charges or helping a loved one who is, you’re in the right place. Everything here is written with your situation in mind, to give you the support and guidance you need to make the best decisions during this tough time. If you need information about being the defendant, click on the “Defendants” button. If you’re looking for guidance on how to help, click on the “Supporters & Families” button.
I've been charged or arrested
Understand what’s happening, what comes next, and what your rights are. Plain language guides written for people going through the system.
Someone I care about is facing charges
Learn how you can help, what to expect at each stage, and how to look after yourself during a difficult time
BOOKS
Survival Guides You Can't Afford to Miss
Two books written to go deeper than a website can — practical, readable, and written by someone who has been there.
Surviving Pretrial
The book that has been described as the replacement for the now out-of-print Busted by the Feds by Larry Fassler. This is a plain English guide to federal court. Everything you need to know from how to hire and fire lawyers to evaluating plea bargain offers to facing the sentencing judge is covered in this 530 page book that was written by someone who survived that same system.
The 2255 Motion Handbook
The only step-by-step guide to the final challenge to a conviction and sentence available to a federal prisoner. Explains each form and even provides guidance on how to research the law, various topics of error, and how to craft a persuasive brief.
Articles & information
Helpful Articles About Surviving Pretrial & Beyond
Browse articles covering every stage — from arrest through to sentencing and beyond. Written clearly, without legal jargon.