Confessions in Federal Court

If you are under investigation for a federal crime, the federal agents assigned to your case will likely attempt to obtain a confession. If you speak with them, they may use the information against you in court. The Fifth Amendment outlines your right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination, and you should always utilize this right, along with the right to an attorney. Federal agents often make you feel like you have to speak with them, but this is not the case. Your federal criminal lawyer will fight to uphold your legal rights and may be able to have your statement suppressed if it was incriminating and forced. If you’re facing criminal charges, contact a defense attorney as soon as possible to start building a strong defense and to learn more about confessions in federal court.

Using Your Fifth Amendment Right to Remain Silent

A federal agent cannot legally compel you to be a witness against yourself in a criminal case. You should never be put in a position where you have to choose between lying and condemning yourself. If a federal agent shows up at your house and starts asking you questions about your case, you can lawfully choose to remain silent. You should always contact an attorney before speaking with federal agents, and we understand that oftentimes you need a lawyer right away. A member of the Grabel & Associates team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have and provide unrivaled legal advice to help you navigate the initial stage of your federal case. Call 1-800-342-7896 and instantly connect with a member of our team or contact us online.

What is Self-Incrimination? Defending Against Federal Charges in Michigan

The Fifth Amendment to the Bill of Rights protects you from self-incrimination. This means that cops or other federal agents may legally ask you questions about facts that are unrelated to your involvement in a case, but they require you to answer questions that equate to an admission of guilt, either inside or outside of court. Agents are legally allowed to ask you questions that may point to the guilt of another person, however. They may also have you answer questions about your case if they provide you with a written agreement letter that offers you “immunity.” When they promise not to prosecute you and you agree, you are required to answer any questions they may have.

The penalties for lying to a federal agent are severe, but there is no punishment for choosing not to speak. If you have questions about whether or not to talk to a federal agent, reach out to a member of the Grabel & Associates team. Never take action alone before you have an attorney on your side. We have extensive experience defending individuals accused of federal crimes, and know what it takes to achieve a favorable outcome.

Understanding the Miranda Warning and Your Rights During Investigation

Confessions are not considered forced if officials have informed you of your right to remain silent. The Miranda Warning is given to suspects in custody before they are questioned to ensure that statements made by the accused are admissible in court. If federal agents inform you of your rights and you make a statement that demonstrates your guilt, it can and most likely will be used against you. When interacting with federal agents, it’s important to think before you speak, and better not to speak at all. When agents show up at your house unexpectedly, you may feel forced to answer their questions, especially when they utilize aggressive investigative tactics. Always remember you are not obligated to talk to them, and if they don’t have a warrant, they have no right to be on your property. Choosing to remain silent will not have a negative impact on the outcome of your case.

Our Approach to Federal Criminal Cases

At Grabel & Associates, we strive to keep you informed throughout every stage of your case. We are dedicated to providing you with the information necessary to achieve the best available outcome, and will tirelessly battle to defend your legal rights. If you’ve been accused of a federal crime, contact Grabel & Associates via telephone or online to get on track to proving your innocence. We have ample experience defending the wrongly accused and are ready to put our talent and experience to work in your criminal case.

Contact Grabel & Associates for 24/7 Criminal Defense

A skilled member of our federal defense team can be reached 24/7 to help you in your federal criminal case. Call 1-800-342-7896 to receive a free initial case consultation and to learn more about confessions in federal court or contact us online. The sooner you reach out to a top tier defense attorney, the better your chances are of receiving a desirable outcome. We will provide you with astute legal advice and guide you through the confusing aspects of the investigative stage of your case. If necessary, we’ll represent you in court and fight to win your case. If you’re in need of legal assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our talented team today to learn more about the options available in your unique case.