Criminal Defense Lawyers

What should I do if federal agents show up at my home or business?

Getting a visit from federal agents can be an intimidating and unnerving experience. Even if you haven’t done anything wrong, having the FBI or other federal law enforcement show up at your home or business can make you feel like you’re in trouble. However, there are things you can do to protect your rights and handle the situation properly.

Remain Calm

The first thing to do is remain calm. Take a few deep breaths. Don’t get angry or upset with the agents. Yelling or becoming aggressive will only escalate the situation. Be polite and professional.

Ask For Identification

When federal agents arrive, you should ask them to identify themselves. Ask to see their credentials, including their name, agency, and badge number. Take notes so you have a record of this information. You have a right to know who is at your door and why they want to talk to you.

Ask For A Search Warrant

If the agents want to enter or search your home or business, ask to see a search warrant. The warrant should be signed by a judge and specify what the agents are authorized to search for and where they can search.Take your time to read over the warrant carefully. Make sure it is valid – check the date and address. If anything seems off, point it out to the agents.If they don’t have a warrant, you do not have to let them inside or consent to a search. Simply say “I do not consent to any searches.”Search warrant

Record The Interaction

If it is legal in your state, start recording audio or video when federal agents arrive. This creates an objective record of what was said and done. Let them know you are recording.

Call An Attorney

Tell the agents you want to speak to an attorney before answering any questions or consenting to a search. Call a criminal defense lawyer right away. Avoid talking about anything substantive until your lawyer arrives.Having an attorney present protects your legal rights. Your lawyer can examine any warrants, negotiate with agents, and stop questioning if needed.

Don’t Consent To Questioning

Politely decline to answer the agents’ questions until your attorney arrives. You have a Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate yourself. Anything you say can potentially be used against you later.Simply tell agents you wish to remain silent until you have legal counsel present. Don’t argue, resist, or engage in small talk – that could be seen as consenting.

Don’t Try To Hide Anything

Don’t make any sudden movements or attempt to hide anything when federal agents arrive. That could be seen as suspicious behavior or destruction of evidence.Let your lawyer handle asserting your rights. Just remain calm and courteous.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

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Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

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2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Secure Your Home/Business

If agents leave to get a warrant after being denied entry, lock your doors and secure your home or business. This prevents them from entering while you are waiting for your attorney to arrive.

Comply With A Valid Warrant

If agents present a valid search warrant signed by a judge, you have to let them enter and search the specified areas. Interfering with their search or destroying evidence could lead to criminal charges.However, continue to assert your rights. Remain silent, record what happens, and don’t sign any documents without your lawyer present.

Get Copies Of All Documents

Request copies of the warrant, inventory of any items seized, and any other documents from the search. This creates a record you can review with your attorney later.

Take Notes

Write down as much as you can recall about what the agents said and did during their visit. Note their names, agencies, the time they arrived, what they looked at or took, and any questions they asked.

Seek Legal Counsel

After the agents leave, immediately contact a criminal defense attorney to discuss the incident. Your lawyer can advise you on next steps, including filing motions if your rights were violated.

Don’t Discuss The Raid Publicly

Avoid posting about the visit on social media or talking to the press. Anything you say publicly could be used against you. Wait to discuss the incident until you have guidance from your attorney.Dealing with a visit from federal agents can be unsettling, but knowing your rights is empowering. Remaining calm, seeking legal counsel, and not consenting to questioning or searches helps ensure the interaction goes smoothly while protecting your legal interests. With the proper response, you can get through the experience intact.