What the Federal Acquittal Statistics Say

According to a 2022 Pew Research Center analysis, acquittals take up the least amount of space in the case-results atmosphere:

If you're facing federal criminal charges in Arkansas, you’re likely wondering: What are my chances of being acquitted? The short answer: very low.

At Ludwig Law Firm, we believe in facing reality with clear eyes. While we build every case like it’s going to trial, the data makes one thing clear: most federal cases end long before a verdict.

Let’s walk through the numbers—and what you can do to protect your future.

As always - if you have a legal question you want answered in a future blog, submit it via the form on this page. Now, let's dive in!

That’s 290 acquittals out of nearly 72,000 federal cases.

Why Are Acquittals So Rare?

The answer comes down to two things:

1. Federal prosecutors don’t indict unless they’re confident
   These cases often involve years of investigation and airtight evidence.

2. Plea deals are strategic
   Defendants plead guilty to avoid the risk of a harsher sentence at trial.

Prosecutors only take cases to trial when they believe they can win. As a result, trials tend to favor the government.

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Most cases end in:

Plea Agreements

Roughly 90% of defendants plead guilty. In many cases, this results in:

• Reduced charges

• Agreed sentencing ranges

• Avoidance of trial uncertainty

Dismissals

About 8% of federal cases are dismissed. These usually come from:

• Constitutional violations

• Lack of evidence

• Pre-trial motions filed by an experienced defense attorney

We frequently file Motions to Suppress or Motions to Dismiss to attack the prosecution’s foundation early.

Why Pre-Trial Defense Is Critical

Even if your case never goes to trial, strong early defense work can shape everything:

• Suppressing key evidence

• Negotiating favorable plea deals

• Securing early dismissal

• Avoiding sentencing enhancements

We file motions that prosecutors respect and judges take seriously.

Every Case Is Unique—So Is Our Strategy

We prepare every federal case like it’s going to trial—but we also understand when to negotiate and how to use leverage.

When a case calls for courtroom strength and smart strategy, we often partner with Warden Law Firm. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option.

Federal Charges Don’t Have to End in Prison

Call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We fight hard—before court, in court, and after court.

📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm today at 501-838-4043
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.