About
About This Resource
This site provides educational information about federal criminal law in the Eastern District of Louisiana (EDLA). The Eastern District encompasses the greater New Orleans metropolitan area, Baton Rouge, and surrounding parishes — one of the busiest federal judicial districts in the country by case volume and one of the most consequential for high-profile prosecutions.
Why the Eastern District Matters
The district’s federal caseload reflects the economy of southeastern Louisiana. Public corruption matters, narcotics prosecutions connected to Gulf Coast trade routes, financial crimes arising from the energy, maritime, and healthcare sectors, and federal civil rights cases all appear regularly on its docket. Federal prosecutions in the district are brought by the United States and investigated by federal agencies including the FBI, DEA, and IRS Criminal Investigation — a division of responsibility explained in our overview of The federal prosecutor’s role in an EDLA case ›.
What We Cover
This resource provides explanations of federal criminal procedure, sentencing guidelines, and the specific characteristics of EDLA practice. Topics include: the grand jury process, pre-trial detention, plea agreements under federal practice, the role of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines after United States v. Booker, and post-conviction remedies available in the Fifth Circuit.
Not Legal Advice
This site does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Federal criminal proceedings involve significant complexity and serious consequences. Anyone facing federal charges or under federal investigation should consult a qualified federal criminal defense attorney. Information presented here reflects general legal principles and is not a substitute for professional legal counsel specific to your situation.
All information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect recent legislative or judicial developments.