Criminal Defense Lawyers

How Do You Know If You’ve Been Charged With a Federal Crime?

Key Indicators That You Have Been or Will Be Charged With a Federal Crime

Once you are being investigated for involvement in a federal crime, the likelihood is that you will know whether you have been charged with a federal crime or not. By the investigation stage, agents will probably have questioned you or loved ones, have searched your home or business, or have sent you a target letter explicitly detailing that you are the target of an investigation. All that said, the mere fact that you are under investigation does not mean you have actually been charged with a federal criminal offense.

A number of methods exist by which you could determine for sure whether you have been charged with a federal crime or not. However you find out, the key detail to keep in mind is that you need an experienced federal criminal attorney to get involved as soon as possible. 

How To Find Out For Sure If You Have Been Charged With a Federal Crime

If you have been charged with a federal crime, it would behoove you to find out right away.  The sooner you know, the sooner you can begin to fight back with an experienced attorney on your team. In some situations, it might be very clear that you have been charged with a federal offense. You may have been arrested and held, or perhaps you or your attorney were notified, usually via a letter, that you are being charged with an offense.

At times, it isn’t precisely obvious whether or not you have been charged with a criminal offense. Agents may appear at your home and question you. At this stage, it could be that you are merely a suspect, or possibly you are just being questioned in connection with the investigation of another person. Agents may also show up with a search warrant to search your home. Although a search warrant likely demonstrates that you are a suspect, and that a case against you is being constructed, it customarily comes before formal charges are brought. In the event that you are searched or questioned, however, you need to act fast to get in touch with a lawyer.  Your attorney will be able to keep track of the charges you might be looking at.

No matter the unique features of your case, working with a lawyer will empower you when you are up against charges, to know what charges you are facing and respond intelligently. 

What Should I Do If I Am Charged With a Federal Crime?

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

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

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

If you have been charged with a federal criminal offense, or even if you have been under investigation for a criminal offense, you need to get in touch with an experienced defense attorney immediately. A lawyer can help protect you throughout the investigation, and can advise you on what charges you are facing and what you need to do to fight back.

How Do You Know You’re Under Federal Investigation?

Indicators that You Are Under Federal Investigation

If you commit a crime that violates federal law, rather than having local police involved, a federal agency will carry out the investigation.  They will then turn their case over to a U.S. attorney to handle the prosecution. If you are aware that you are under investigation, you can start to taking steps to defend your freedom.  

But exactly how can you know when you are under federal investigation? Several potential indicators are outlined below.  If you want to cut out the guesswork and find out for sure whether or not you are under investigation, then you should retain a federal defense attorney who has experience defending clients in the early stages of federal criminal cases.

Has a Federal Agent Approached You and Questioned You?

If, at this stage, you have been questioned, or a loved one has been questioned by federal agents, then you may be under investigation for a crime. Even if you are still unsure whether you are the suspect of an investigation or otherwise involved in the investigation, it is crucial that you have a lawyer on your side protecting you. Indeed, potential jail time, fines, and more are on the line.  Taking action right away at this stage is imperative to defend your rights and your freedom.  

Am I the Subject of an Investigation by A Federal Agency Investigating?

Customarily, you will learn that you are under investigation when agents arrive at your door, or otherwise contact you to ask you questions about a case you are suspected in. You might also hear from people that you know that agents are asking questions about you. In some cases, agents may tell you explicitly that you are the subject of their investigation.  Sometimes they may simply ask questions without making you aware of how you are connected to the case. You are not obligated to speak with them if they do show up.  Consult with your lawyer before you say anything.  

In the event that agents come with a search warrant, it is much more certain that you are indeed the subject of the investigation. To learn more about fighting a warrant and the other tactics agencies like the FBI or DEA could employ to come against you, contact a federal defense lawyer. A good attorney with specialized knowledge in this area will know how to deal with federal investigations and charges.  He or she can help you take the steps required to defend your rights throughout every phase of your case.

Federal target letters and Federal Charges

Under some circumstances, it will be quite evident that you are the subject of an investigation, because at some stage, you may receive a letter stating that you are the target of a federal investigation. The target letters will sometimes contain a request that you come in and meet with investigators or a member of the U.S. attorney’s office. You should not attempt to respond to a target letter on your own.  A skilled attorney can handle that task on your behalf and protect your best interests in the process.