Anyone accused of a crime needs and deserves representation from an attorney who knows the legal issues, knows their way around the courtroom, and ultimately, makes sure they knows what is at stake for you and what you want to happen in your case.
A criminal case usually begins with an arrest or citation by a police officer, but in federal cases it can begin even earlier, with a proactive investigation and “target letter” from the FBI. An arrest for a crime does not always result in the person being held in jail; the officer may “book and release” you, or hand you a citation with the alleged crimes and a court appearance date written on it.