Regardless of the severity of the accusation against you, seeking the legal advice of expert, highly experienced federal criminal defense attorneys is critical to achieve the best case outcome. His or her legal services can make a big difference in every phase of the litigation process, or in the steps to be taken to close the case through a settlement.If legal representation is employed when a charge has been filed against you, you can rest assured that your lawyer will do everything in his or her power to lower your charges, if not totally drop it. The attorney may also work to verify the actual accusation made against you. This may involve interviewing the police, witnesses and other concerned parties to make sure that no exaggerations or utter lies are thrown at you.If the case goes to court, the defense lawyer may also conduct a thorough investigation in preparation for trial. To help in gathering facts and evidence that may help in formulating an aggressive defense, the attorney may as well enlist the services of a private investigator, polygraphist or ballistics expert, among other law-related professionals. It is also possible to seek the testimony of an expert witness in a certain field, if the lawyer deems that this would strengthen your case.Most importantly, if an offense was indeed committed, the lawyer can help in negotiating with prosecutors to keep the potential penalties as light as possible. In grave offenses, employing the legal aid of one of the most qualified federal criminal defense attorneys can help safeguard against overly steep penalties like extended jail time and heavy fines.