Federal Conspiracy Laws

Written by: Michael Emory Clark

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Federal conspiracy laws are intended to prevent or punish crimes that have not yet been committed. Using these laws, the government can charge many people who may have been responsible for, or were involved in, a plan to commit a crime. Being accused of conspiracy is very serious—if you are convicted, you could face up to 5 years in prison, be fined $250,000, and likely be charged with committing other crimes related to the conspiracy.

Federal conspiracy laws are used in many situations

Under federal conspiracy laws, two or more people who have agreed to break another federal law can be convicted of conspiracy. Proof of written or other types of agreement is not needed for anyone involved to be convicted of conspiracy. Also, the government does not have to prove that everyone agreed to the conspiracy at the same time, knew the other people involved, or even knew about all the goals of the crime.

Federal conspiracy laws often create long, complicated trials

By charging many people of conspiracy, the government can bring together everyone who may have been responsible for or knew about the plan to commit a crime. This creates problems. Trials with many defendants (people who were charged with conspiracy) last longer, and, because of that, are more expensive. When multiple defendants are on trial, each person's story is not usually exactly the same as the others', which causes confusion for the jury. Also, the federal government holds everyone in the conspiracy responsible for the actions of the others, which means that all defendants in a conspiracy trial can receive expanded punishment if convicted.

If you have been threatened or charged with conspiracy

If you have been accused of conspiracy. Be very careful. Don't do anything that could make you the target of a conspiracy charge. If in doubt, ask a lawyer or your company leaders.

If you have already been charged with conspiracy. You have few options other than hiring a lawyer. If you or someone else should not be charged with conspiracy, a lawyer can help you try to prove your case to federal prosecutors and investigators.

Collect and provide all the information you have. Give your lawyer all the facts about the situation and any others who were involved.

What a federal conspiracy charge may cost

Most federal criminal cases are very expensive, and it's not uncommon for legal fees to be 6-figure amounts. Other fees may be charged for preparing legal documents for trial, locating and interviewing key witnesses, and helping you prepare for the trial. Attorneys' fees depend on their experience and areas of expertise.