Representing Clients Nationwide
(843) 620-1100

Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys

Facing a federal investigation, sentencing, or incarceration is overwhelming, and the stakes are often life-changing. At Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C., we focus exclusively on federal criminal defense, appeals, and in-prison matters, helping clients understand their options and make informed decisions. 

Our team can support you throughout the entire federal process—from the earliest stages of a case to post-conviction and reentry into society. Whether you’re responding to federal charges, preparing for sentencing, addressing issues while in custody, or pursuing options such as early release or clemency, we’ll provide experienced guidance every step of the way.

We are based in South Carolina, but we work with clients across the United States who need a trusted advocate during difficult times. Contact us today for an initial consultation with our skilled federal criminal defense lawyers and prison consultants.

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Why Choose Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. to Handle
My Federal Criminal Case?


Our firm offers a level of insight and support that few federal practices provide. Here’s what sets Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. apart and why people across the country trust our team with complex federal matters.

Creative Strategies for Complex Cases

We don’t rely on cookie-cutter strategies. Every case receives a tailored, individualized approach designed to uncover opportunities others often overlook. We’re dedicated to meeting the unique needs of every client.

Continuous Support at Every Stage

Unlike many federal defense firms, our work doesn’t end at sentencing. We assist clients with issues that may arise during incarceration, release, and reentry, offering continuous legal guidance when it matters most.

Appeals & Post-Conviction Experience

Our firm has a commanding knowledge of direct appeals, §2255 motions, and other post-conviction matters. We provide clients with knowledgeable support when seeking relief or challenging errors.

In-House Federal Prison Policy Insight

With an in-house federal prison policy expert, we understand how the Bureau of Prisons operates. We help clients navigate transfers, discipline issues, sentence reductions, and early release opportunities.

Federal Prison Information

Federal Prison Information

We have profiled every prison within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Learn about each prison’s location, security level, educational and recreational offerings, and much more.

Find A Federal Prison

Visit Our Law Office in Columbia

Address

3710 Landmark Dr #113 Columbia, SC 29204

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Phone

(843) 620-1100

We Handle All Types of
Federal Criminal Cases

Federal Criminal Defense

Federal criminal defense attorneys handle cases investigated and prosecuted at the federal level, where procedures differ from state matters. Our team can help you understand what to expect and how to respond during each phase of the process. We’ll provide clarity and support as your case moves forward.

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White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes are typically nonviolent offenses that involve financial or professional misconduct, such as embezzlement, fraud, or public corruption. A white collar crimes attorney can help you understand the allegations, review the evidence, and address concerns early in the process. We provide clear guidance to individuals facing these complex investigations.

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Federal Clemency

Clemency provides an opportunity to request relief after a federal conviction or sentence, primarily through a pardon or commutation. Our federal clemency attorney can help you understand eligibility criteria and prepare a clear, organized petition. We guide clients and families through the application process with thoughtful support and careful attention to detail.

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Federal Appeals

If you believe that a legal or procedural error affected the outcome of your case, you may ask a higher court to review the decision. Our federal appeals attorney can examine the record, identify potential issues, and guide you through each step of the appellate process.

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Federal 2255 Motions

A §2255 motion allows a federal prisoner to challenge their conviction or sentence on specific grounds, such as constitutional violations. We are leading authorities on these specialized filings and understand the nuances involved in post-conviction review. Our federal 2255 motion attorney will provide careful analysis and present strategic arguments to the court.

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Federal Compassionate Release

Compassionate release is a mechanism that allows incarcerated inmates to request sentence reductions or early releases based on extraordinary and compelling reasons. Examples might include the presence of a terminal illness or advanced age and deteriorating health with significant time served. Our federal compassionate release attorney can review your eligibility and prepare a comprehensive request on your behalf.

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Federal Sentence Mitigation

Sentence mitigation focuses on presenting mitigating circumstances to advocate for reduced charges or lighter penalties. While it is heavily fact-specific, examples could include a clean criminal record or a history of mental health issues. Our federal sentence mitigation attorney will create a clear picture and argue for leniency in your case.

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Federal Prison Consulting

Prison consulting helps individuals prepare for incarceration, address concerns that arise while in custody, and plan for a successful reentry. Our federal prison consultants can answer questions, explain what to expect, and help you throughout the process. We offer informed, personalized support to help you and your family navigate each stage.

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Financial Crimes

Financial crimes can include allegations related to fraud, insider trading, or other illegal monetary activities. They typically involve an abuse of a position of trust or some form of deception. A federal financial crimes lawyer can help clarify the nature of the charges and review the government’s evidence.

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Federal Attorneys at Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C.

Client Reviews

“Elizabeth Franklin Best is an outstanding attorney. She was honest and direct. She did not overpromise or confuse us. She listened and explained our options. She developed a strategy and followed it through. Elizabeth was thorough and did the legwork necessary to get my uncle out of prison after he served 19 years of a 480-month sentence. She kept us informed of the progress, and the outcome was amazing! The motion was granted several weeks later. Thank you, Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. you are the best!”

Vickie C.

“I would like to say that this has been the best interaction I’ve ever had with an attorney’s office. Communication is seamless, and someone is always available to answer questions. The entire process was explained thoroughly upfront. At times, I thought the fees might be expensive; however, as a business owner, I believe you get what you pay for. Mrs. Franklin-Best has a wealth of experience and knowledge and is the best attorney for this matter.”

Tameisha T.

“When I hired Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C., I received the best experience I’ve ever had with an attorney. Her genuineness, professionalism, and legal expertise are unrivaled. She and her team showed sincere concern for our case and used their knowledge of the law to bring forth victory—and we were victorious because of it.”

John B.

“Elizabeth Franklin is passionate about her work, knowledgeable about the law, and compassionate toward her clients. She listens, and her writing skills are exceptional. She is reasonably priced, and she truly fights for you. Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. and everyone within her firm provide step-by-step guidance and timely responses to your questions and concerns.”

Leah K.

“Nothing in the court of law is guaranteed today. Still, if you need a firm that will fight for you and knows the system and the law, then Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. and her team are the ones to hire. She has accomplished things we thought were impossible and gives you and your family hope that great attorneys still exist. You will not find another attorney who leaves no stone unturned the way she does. That’s why they are truly the best. Thank you, Elizabeth. You are the best of the best!”

Jimmy C.

“I was very impressed the first time I met Elizabeth Best. When I arrived, she already had my son on the phone, reviewing his case. She even took the time to drive to the facility to meet him face-to-face. I also love the case portal for keeping up with updates.”

Amy B.

“Her office is very professional, and she was energetic during our conversation. The consultation with my relative went great, and he is in great spirits and looking forward to being home soon. Thank you! I will be referring anyone seeking representation for federal habeas corpus relief.”

Gaddafi O.

“I can’t recommend Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. highly enough! She is the go-to appellate lawyer in the State of South Carolina. I refer clients to her whenever I can because I know they will be in trusted hands.”

Shealey Law Firm

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Federal Criminal Defense Law Firm Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C.

How Our Federal Criminal Defense Team Can Help You With Your Case

Navigating the federal criminal process can feel overwhelming, especially when the consequences reach far beyond the courtroom. At Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C., our work extends from the earliest phases of a case through post-conviction litigation and reentry, reflecting the full scope of challenges clients may face.

We assist with:

  • Law enforcement interrogations and federal investigations
  • Trial preparation and strategy
  • Sentencing and mitigation
  • Direct appeals, §2255 motions, and habeas corpus petitions
  • Post-conviction matters
  • Prison preparation 
  • Issues that arise during incarceration, such as disciplinary actions and transfer requests
  • Early release and time-credit options
  • Clemency, pardons, and commutations
  • Reentry planning, halfway house and home confinement placement, and related support

Whether you are responding to a new federal charge or seeking relief after a conviction, our team is here to stand by your side and help you make the best possible decisions.

Contact Us Today

Meet Our Team


Christopher Zoukis - Managing Director at Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. Christopher Zoukis, JD, MBA

Managing Director

LaDonna Falvey - Firm Administrator at Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. LaDonna Falvey

Firm Administrator

Kimberly Zoukis - Operations Manager at Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C. Kimberly Zoukis

Operations Manager

Meet the team
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys in the United States

Our Awards & Accomplishments

Our skilled legal team has achieved many notable awards and accolades, including the following: 

  • Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 – Appellate Practice
  • Justia 10.0 Peer Review Rating & Avvo 10.0 (Superb) Peer Rating
  • BCG Attorney Search Rankings: #2 Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina
  • South Carolina Public Defender Association – “Public Defender of the Year” 
  • Society of Professional Journalists (2018): Mark of Excellence finalist
  • Foreword Reviews Book Awards (2018): Indie Book of the Year finalist
  • Eric Hoffer Book Awards (2018): Montaigne Medal finalist
  • Next Generation Indie Book Awards (2018): Nonfiction award
  • Feathered Quill Book Awards (2018): Nonfiction award
  • Indie Reader Discovery Award (2017): Nonfiction award
  • Readers’ Favorite Book Awards (2017): Gold medal, general nonfiction
  • American Bar Association’s Top 100 Law Blawgs (2016): for Prison Law Blog (now our firm’s blog)
  • Eric Hoffer Book Awards (2015): Montaigne Medal
  • Pen America Center, Writing Awards (2012): Fiction and Drama

Together, these honors underscore the depth of knowledge and perspective that informs our work across federal criminal defense and prison-related matters.

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Federal Criminal Defense FAQs

Why Should I Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney?

Hiring a lawyer who focuses on federal cases is important because federal investigations, charges, and court procedures differ from those in state courts. An experienced federal criminal defense attorney understands these distinctions and can help you make informed decisions at every step of the process. 

 

They can also advise you during interactions with law enforcement or federal agents, helping you avoid missteps that could hurt your case.

 

Not all criminal lawyers regularly work in the federal court system. Choosing someone who is familiar with the intricacies involved can make a significant difference in how your case is managed and resolved. 

 

If you’re facing a federal charge or investigation, having knowledgeable federal counsel ensures that your rights are protected.

What Should I Do if I am Arrested for a Federal Crime?

If you are arrested for a federal offense, the most important step you can take is to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions from agents or investigators until you have spoken with an attorney, as anything you say can be used against you later.

 

You should also avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your lawyer—including friends, family members, or cellmates—and refrain from posting about the situation on social media. Even well-intentioned conversations can create misunderstandings or limit your options.

 

Federal charges often carry more serious penalties and longer potential sentences than similar state offenses, making early legal intervention especially important. A federal defense attorney can help you understand the allegations, explain what comes next, and advise you on how to protect your rights moving forward.

What Is the Difference Between Federal and State Charges?

Federal and state charges differ in several ways. Federal cases involve federal law and are handled in federal court, investigated by federal agencies (e.g., the FBI, DEA, IRS, or ATF), and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. They often involve broader investigations, more extensive resources, and different rules and procedures than state cases.

 

Federal offenses are also typically subject to harsher sentencing guidelines, which makes it essential to work with an experienced attorney. A federal criminal defense lawyer can help you understand what to expect as your case moves forward.

Can You Help If I’m Already Serving a Federal Sentence?

Yes. Many people contact us after they have already been sentenced or are currently in federal prison. A federal defense attorney or prison consultant can assist with issues that arise during incarceration and help you understand available programs. We can evaluate whether options such as early release, time credits, or sentence reductions may apply to your situation.

 

We can also address concerns related to disciplinary matters, transfers, safety, or placement, and provide guidance to families seeking support for their loved ones. Even after a conviction, you may still have options. Speaking with someone familiar with federal policies can help you understand the path forward.

Contact Our Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers of Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C.

Contact Our Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer for Legal Help

Choosing the right federal defense team can make a difficult situation feel more manageable. At Elizabeth Franklin-Best P.C., we take the time to listen, answer questions, and provide the clarity people need to make informed choices about their future. If you’re feeling uncertain about your next step, we’re here to offer perspective and support. Contact our experienced federal defense attorney today to start a conversation about how we can assist you.

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