Mississippi Criminal Defense Attorneys With Over 85 Years of Results

Last updated on May 18, 2026

Facing criminal charges can feel like the darkest time of your life. Fortunately, you do not have to endure it alone. When you work with us at Farese, Farese, & Farese, P.A., you will have an experienced team of criminal defense attorneys prepared to uphold your rights.

Founded in 1939, our law firm has earned a reputation for successful results, even when its team is up against powerful opponents like the criminal justice system. From our office in Ashland, we defend clients in north Mississippi and west Tennessee from a range of offenses. Some of the cases we manage include the following areas:

• Violent crimes: We handle offenses ranging from simple assault to rape and homicide.
• Drug crimes: Seeking positive outcomes for possession, manufacture and trafficking charges.
• Drunk driving: Whether it is a driving under the influence (DUI) or vehicular homicide charge, we can represent you.
• White collar crimes: We have a lot of defense experience in financial crime, including federal charges.
• Embezzlement: Let us help protect your freedom, career and reputation against accusations of financial misconduct.
• Public corruption: Helping you contest a wide range of charges that often accompany allegations of public corruption.

Our defense services have garnered attention throughout the country, and many of us have been featured on national news programs. Whether we are representing celebrities or regular Joes and Janes who have found themselves in hot water, we provide the same level of trustworthy personal service to each client.

What’s Your Best Option – A Trial or a Plea Deal?

After your arrest, you may feel caught between the life you led prior to your charges and the one that will involve consequences if you are convicted. The prosecutor in your case may offer you a plea deal, which usually involves an admission of guilt and the waiving of your right to a trial in exchange for one of the following:

• The severity of the charge: You may be offered the chance to plead guilty to a lesser charge.
• The length of the sentence: You may be offered the chance to plead guilty and receive a lighter sentence.
• The number of charges: You may be offered the chance to plead guilty and have several charges against you dropped altogether.

You should never accept a plea deal without consulting with a fully qualified Mississippi criminal defense lawyer. There are many factors that come into play when determining whether going to trial is a better move than taking a plea deal. These include the following:

• The evidence against you: If the prosecution’s case is weak, going to trial may allow you to be acquitted.
• The impact of trial publicity on your life: Defendants in high-profile cases may prefer to plead guilty to avoid certain details coming out in a trial.
• The long-term impact of the conviction: Pleading guilty to a lesser charge may be more beneficial for employment prospects than risking a long sentence for a more serious charge.

Regardless of the circumstances, if you take a plea deal, the next step is being sentenced by the judge. They will ask you if you understand the rights you are waiving with your plea deal. When your sentencing is done, you will serve your sentence.

Key Differences in State vs. Federal Criminal Cases

One critical element of your defense will hinge on whether you were charged in a state court or a federal court. Federal and state criminal cases differ from each other in several ways, including the following:

• The nature of the charges: Most cases tried in Mississippi are tried in state courts. Charges such as DUI, sexual assault, theft and domestic violence are considered state-level crimes. Federal crimes can include drug charges, when state lines were crossed in the commission of the offense; embezzlement; wire or mail fraud; possessing child pornography; forgery; espionage; or insider trading violations.
• Where the case will be heard: Federal cases involving crimes committed in Mississippi are heard in one of two federal district courts in the state – the Northern District or the Southern District. These courts have judges appointed to lifetime terms by the U.S. President. Most state courts have judges appointed by the governor, who must stand for reelection every four or eight years.
• Sentencing guidelines for the type of crime alleged: Since 2005, federal district judges have been required to take the Federal Sentencing Guidelines into consideration when they impose a sentence on a defendant (prior to that, these guidelines were mandatory). State sentencing guidelines are largely defined by state legislatures, which may create maximum and minimum sentences for state-level criminal charges.

At our firm, our legal staff members have been admitted to practice in Mississippi courts as well as numerous federal and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Whether you are facing allegations of a state misdemeanor or felony, a serious federal crime, or a complex case with charges at both the state and federal level, we are attorneys who can construct a defense to protect your freedom and minimize the consequences for you, for the short and long term.

The Farese, Farese, & Farese Difference

Whether your case is being heard in a local court or federal jurisdiction, partnering with our firm for your defense communicates a powerful message. Farese, Farese, & Farese, P.A., was founded in 1939 and has grown to a substantial, respected firm, known across the state and nationally for our handling of high-profile criminal, civil and personal injury cases. Cases our attorneys have been involved in have been covered in the media by CBS, NBC, Larry King, Nancy Grace and Court TV.

We pride ourselves on balancing our firm’s distinguished history with cutting-edge representation that’s ahead of the curve. Forensic science, investigative techniques and criminal law statutes change every day. We keep up to date with these changes so that we can supply innovative defense strategies. In the courtroom, we have the ability to showcase exhibits created by our large-format printer. We can rehearse critical presentations with our unique multimedia courtroom presentation system.

Our proactive approach helps ensure that our clients have the best techniques available and technology at their fingertips throughout the duration of their cases.

Reputable – Successful – Affordable

Time is critical in criminal cases, so do not hesitate to seek our experience, skill and knowledge. You should not have to feel stressed or confused about finances in this already daunting situation. Generally, an initial consultation with us is free. Following this, we charge a flat fee. To learn more, please speak with us by calling 662-736-1292 or toll-free at 888-341-0243. You may also reach us by using our online contact form.