Houston Espionage Attorney

Espionage, Economic Espionage and Trade Secrets

A simple description of espionage is taking or obtaining secret information without permission of the rightful owner or possessor. The taking of government secrets is specifically covered by federal law, but so is the taking of business or industrial confidential information. Stealing trade secrets is known as economic espionage and is covered by the Economic Espionage Act of 1996 which makes it a federal offense. If you have reason to believe that you may be suspected of, or you have been charged with espionage, talking with a respected Houston criminal defense attorney could make the difference between facing serious federal penalties and keeping your freedom.

Espionage Lawyer in Houston

In this country, a person accused of espionage is considered innocent until proven guilty. To the accused, however, it may not appear that way. Federal investigators and Department of Justice prosecutors are very determined to gain admissions of guilt and individuals charged with espionage may face deportation, up to 15 years in a federal prison and large fines. Companies are not exempt from harsh penalties and may be forced to pay up to $10 million in fines if found guilty. 

These complex cases may hinge upon the identity of the rightful owner or upon the steps taken by the owner of the information to keep it confidential and other legal issues.  It is vital that a person suspected of an espionage crime remains silent if interviewed by federal investigators to avoid harming his or her defense. A skilled espionage lawyer at my firm has the expertise and the drive to thoroughly investigate these charges and the circumstances of the alleged crime in order to develop an effective defense strategy.

As a former prosecutor with the Department of Justice, I, Attorney Ned Barnett, am well versed in all aspects of espionage cases and their defense. I am pleased to say that many new clients are referred to me by satisfied former clients. As a committed criminal defense lawyer my priority is always what is best for my client. Should you turn to my firm for your legal guidance, you will be able to breathe easier knowing that your future has been placed into completely capable and trustworthy hands.

Contact a Houston espionage attorney at my firm for a powerful defense.