A Comprehensive Guide to Federal Criminal Defense (2025)
This article is an excerpt from:
Understanding Federal Charges for Treason
What is Treason?
Treason is defined under Article III, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution. According to the Constitution, "Treason against the United States shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort." This narrow definition has been maintained to prevent the misuse of treason charges.
How is Treason Charged?
Treason is a federal crime in the United States. The prosecution must prove two key elements: the accused must have committed an overt act, and there must be testimony from two witnesses to the same overt act, or a confession in open court.
Treason in the US Constitution
The U.S. Constitution sets strict requirements for a conviction of treason to prevent its misuse as a political weapon. The framers of the Constitution were keenly aware of how accusations of treason had been used in Europe to silence dissent.
Historical Cases of Treason
There have been few treason prosecutions in U.S. history. One notable case is that of Aaron Burr, who was acquitted of treason in 1807. More recent cases include American citizens who aided enemy forces during wartime, such as Axis Sally and Tokyo Rose during World War II.
Punishment for Treason
The punishment for treason can include death, imprisonment, and fines. Historically, the death penalty has been reserved for the most egregious cases, while lesser punishments are more common today.
Defending Against Treason Charges
Defending against treason charges requires a thorough understanding of constitutional law and federal statutes. A successful defense might challenge the prosecution's evidence or the constitutionality of the charge itself.
Securing a Presidential Pardon for Treason
Securing a presidential pardon for treason involves a formal application process. The President has the power to pardon federal offenses, including treason, but such pardons are rare and typically involve a lengthy review process.
FAQs
What must be necessary to convict someone of treason?
Can the president pardon someone convicted of treason?
How many witnesses are needed to convict someone of treason?
What proof is needed to convict a person of treason?
How is someone convicted of treason?
How can a person be convicted of treason?
How many Americans have been convicted of treason?
Recent Results
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Ronald W. Chapman II secured a complete acquittal for Dr. Loey Kousa, who faced charges of healthcare fraud, drug trafficking, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. This triumph is particularly noteworthy as Chapman defeated the Department of Justice's Healthcare Fraud Strike Force, showcasing his exceptional legal acumen and dedication to justice.
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Ronald W. Chapman II successfully secured a complete acquittal for Dr. Kendall Hansen, who faced severe allegations from the Department of Justice, including healthcare fraud and drug trafficking. This victory against the DOJ Strike Force underscores Chapman's formidable legal expertise and his unwavering commitment to defending his clients' rights and reputations.
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Ron stunnud lhe DOJ with a full acquittal in United States v. Bothra a complex healthcare fraud indictment.
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Dismissal of two federal opioid death counts in United States v. Sachy. (Read More)
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Full acquittal in United States v. Pompy a Detroit drug indictment against an interventional anesthesiologist.
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Full acquittal in People v. Joseph Oesterling, a mayo clinic trained physician charged with drug trafficking. (Read More)
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United States v. McCutchen, a Detroit physician was charged in a wide ranging Oxycodone drug conspiracy.
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In United States v. Aggarwal Ron secured a full acquittal of a physician accused of drug trafficking and healthcare fraud.
Satisfied Clients
“Ron is ferocious in the federal courtroom, watching him do his thing was like watching a fighter in his prime”
“This is who you want in a federal courtroom”
“Ron was our knight in shining armor. Without question he was born to be a leader”