What Not to Do If You are Under Federal Investigation

Federal investigations are very complex and can be tricky to navigate on your own. If you suspect that you’re under investigation, you should immediately contact a lawyer and start working to protect your freedom. The licensed federal attorneys at Grabel & Associates have over 15 years of experience battling for Michigan’s wrongly accused and are ready to step in at any stage of your case to fight for you. If you’re looking for a defense lawyer that is extremely knowledgeable and values both your rights future, our skilled private defense team may be the right fit for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out via telephone or through our online contact form in the beginning stages of your case, so you can start developing a winning defense strategy.

Even after you’ve contacted an attorney, there are a few things that you should avoid doing if you are under federal investigation. These actions may hinder your opportunity to receive a fair verdict and make it more difficult for your lawyer to prove your innocence. Being aware of what not to do makes it easier for you to navigate the early stages of your case, hopefully resulting in a more favorable outcome.

What to Avoid in the Investigation Stage of Your Federal Criminal Case

If you’re under investigation for a crime or federal agents showed up at your front door and searched your home, your first instinct may be to talk about what happened with others involved in the investigation. This is a bad idea for two reasons. First, you could be charged with obstruction of justice later on in your case, depending on what you discuss with others. Second, the person you talk to could be subpoenaed, or forced to talk to the federal agents. Both outcomes may have a negative impact on the outcome of your case, potentially resulting in a guilty verdict or extended sentence. The best thing you can do is keep quiet and resist the urge to discuss the details of your case with others. While this may be difficulty during the investigation stage, it will make your life a lot easier if you are charged with a crime.

The next thing you should avoid in the investigation stage of your federal case is destroying evidence. If you’re in possession of documents or electronic files that contain evidence related to your federal case, you should leave it alone. It is a crime to tamper with or destroy evidence, and may result in harsher punishments or a guilty verdict. The government is especially good at identifying when documents were modified or deleted, so it’s easy for them to prove that you’re guilty of obstruction of justice.

The final thing you should not do if you are under federal investigation is lie. Lying to a federal agent or grand jury is treated as a separate crime, potentially increasing your sentence. If you cannot answer questions truthfully without incriminating yourself, you can plead the fifth and choose to remain silent. You will not be penalized for refusing to talk to the government, so it is a much better option to not say anything at all than to lie about what happened. Always use your right to remain silent as much as possible, and contact a lawyer before speaking with agents.

Defense in Michigan Federal Criminal Investigations

Our lawyers will make sure you know what is going on in your case at all times, as well as what you need to be doing to defend your best interests. As soon as you contact our team, we will begin fighting to protect you and will advise you on how to use your rights to your advantage. Avoid common mistakes by letting a lawyer take control of your case. We are always available to begin working with clients statewide.

Contact Grabel & Associates for 24/7 Federal Criminal Defense

Contacting a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer should be the first thing you do when you find out that you’re under investigation. Your attorney will review the details of your unique case and help you make decisions about what to do in the initial stages of your case. Having wise legal guidance at the beginning of your case is critical, making it easier to prove your innocence in the long run. If you want one of Michigan’s top legal defense firms battling on your behalf, call us now. We’re willing to step in at any stage of your case and are committed to providing you with unrivalled criminal defense.

Don’t wait to secure legal representation – contact us today. Reach out to our talented staff at 1-800-342-7896 or via our online contact form for 24/7 federal criminal defense. A member of our team will review the details of your case and provide you with a free initial case consultation. If you decide you want to work with us, you’ll be connected with a lawyer who has ample experience in Michigan law, giving you the best shot at receiving your desired outcome.