When a person is under a federal investigation, he or she may receive a target letter from the United States Attorney. This letter, called a target letter, notifies the subject of an investigation that he or she is the target of a federal investigation and will likely notify the subject what area of the law the investigation involves. The letter is usually sent to seek a subject’s cooperation in an investigation.
If you receive a target letter, you likely already at least suspect that an investigation is ongoing. An agent from a federal agency will have contacted you, and may have attempted to question you or search your property.
No matter what stage of an investigation you are currently facing, the most important thing you need to do is contact a federal defense attorney. You should begin working with an attorney as soon as possible, and while you could tell investigators you would like to cooperate, it is not wise to actually do so without an attorney present. Remain calm and ask for time to consult with your defense lawyer, then call Grabel & Associates and begin your fight for justice.
Our attorneys are available 24/7 to start defending you or your loved one in a federal investigation. Call 1-800-342-7896 to speak with an experienced case analyst, or contact us online now for a free initial case consultation and learn more about the steps you should be taking to protect your freedom. Don’t wait to begin fighting for justice.
When you are first questioned or approached, the best strategy is to not say anything unless you are telling investigators that you need your lawyer present. Denying anything they say or lying could open you up to obstruction charges. You are not obligated to actually cooperate though, and should make sure to utilize your right to remain silent and right to an attorney.
After choosing not to cooperate during initial questioning, you will likely receive a target letter, should the case proceed to that point. You may be asked to show up for an interview to help with the investigation, or to appear as a grand jury witness. You should never move forward in your case without an attorney, especially not if you are meeting with a federal prosecutor. Contact us now and learn more about how we can defend you in a federal criminal investigation.
For a sample target letter, visit the United States Attorneys website. For information about your specific case, it is critical that you contact an experienced trial attorney and learn more about how to best protect your interests throughout an investigation and potential trial.
When your case is first investigated, a federal agency will likely handle the questioning and possible search. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, FBI, handles many cases, though drug related offenses are investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Other agencies include the ATF and the Department of Homeland Security.
If charges are brought against you, the United States Attorney (or an assistant U.S. attorney) will be in charge of the case. The office of the U.S. attorney represents the federal government in a criminal case against a person, and will collect evidence while crafting an argument to try to prove a suspect’s guilt.
If you have an experienced defense attorney on your side, you can ensure that the prosecution doesn’t build a strong case against you, and make sure that your side of the story is accurately and effectively presented if your case does proceed to trial. Don’t try to clear your name after receiving a target letter, without first contacting a defense attorney. We are available now to consult with you or your loved one about next steps.
If you have received a target letter, our team will advise you on what you need to say and do as you proceed through an investigation, and will do everything possible to protect you continuing even into a possible trial. Our team is trusted by clients statewide to deliver exceptional defense in misdemeanor and felony cases, and we know what it takes to win. Call our 24/7 hotline or contact us online and learn more about how our team can protect you.
Call us now at 1-800-342-7896 or contact our firm online and let our trial attorneys begin representing you. If you just want a free, no obligation case analysis, call now and we will give you the information you need to move forward with your defense. Act fast, don’t risk your future by failing to hire an attorney right away.