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If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you, or someone you know, has received a federal target letter. First off, take a deep breath. It’s a scary situation to be in, but you’re not alone. A federal target letter is a formal notification from a federal prosecutor, informing you that you are the target of a federal criminal investigation.The letter will outline the nature of the alleged crime, your rights, and often includes an invitation to testify before a grand jury or speak with the prosecutor. It’s essentially the federal government‘s way of saying, “We think you committed a crime, and we’re building a case against you.”Receiving a target letter does not necessarily mean you will be indicted, but it does mean the likelihood is high. The prosecutor believes there is substantial evidence linking you to a federal crime. It’s a serious matter that requires immediate action and skilled legal representation.
If a target letter from the FBI, DOJ, or U.S. Attorney‘s Office shows up in your mailbox, your first instinct may be to panic. Don‘t. The most important thing you can do is stay calm and take proactive steps to protect yourself. Here’s what you should do:
This is not the time for a general practice lawyer or a public defender. You need a seasoned federal criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of the federal system and has a track record of success in these high-stakes cases.Look for a law firm that focuses exclusively on federal defense, with attorneys who have experience as former federal prosecutors. They will have invaluable insight into how the other side thinks and operates.At Spodek Law Group, our team includes former federal prosecutors who now put their skills to work defending clients like you. We understand what you’re up against, and we know how to level the playing field.
You may be tempted to try to talk your way out of the situation or cooperate in hopes of leniency. Resist that urge. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Politely decline any requests for interviews or information, and let your attorney handle all communication with the government.
If there are documents or records relevant to the investigation, your attorney will need to review them. But under no circumstances should you shred, delete, or modify anything. Doing so could constitute obstruction of justice, a separate federal offense that carries severe penalties.
Attorney-client privilege protects your communications, so you can tell your lawyer the whole truth without fear of repercussions. In order for your attorney to mount the strongest possible defense, they need to know all the facts – good and bad. Omitting or sugarcoating information will only hurt you in the long run.
Your attorney will guide you through this process, step by step. They may advise you to take certain actions or refrain from others. Listen to them. Remember, their job is to protect your rights and interests, and secure the best possible outcome in your case. Trust their expertise.
Receiving a target letter is just the beginning of what can be a lengthy and complex process. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
By the time you receive a target letter, the federal investigation is likely well underway. Agents from the FBI, DEA, IRS, or other federal agencies may have been gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses for months or even years.
In the federal system, felony charges typically must be brought through an indictment by a grand jury. The grand jury is a group of citizens who hear evidence presented by the prosecutor and decide whether there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed.As a target, you have the right to invoke your Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and decline to testify before the grand jury. In most cases, that is advisable. Your attorney can help you navigate this decision.
If the grand jury returns an indictment, the next step is usually plea bargaining. The vast majority of federal cases are resolved through plea agreements, where the defendant pleads guilty, often to reduced charges, in exchange for a more lenient sentence.Negotiating a favorable plea deal is an art form, and it requires a skilled and experienced federal defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we have a proven track record of achieving positive results for our clients through strategic plea bargaining.
If a plea agreement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. In the federal system, trials are highly complex and technical affairs, with strict rules of evidence and procedure. Having a trial-tested federal defense lawyer in your corner is essential.Our attorneys have collectively handled hundreds of federal trials, with a strong record of acquittals and favorable verdicts. We know how to pick apart the government‘s case, challenge their evidence, and persuade a jury.
If you are convicted, either by guilty plea or at trial, the final stage is sentencing. Federal sentencing is governed by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, a complex set of rules that take into account a variety of factors, including the severity of the offense, the defendant‘s criminal history, and any aggravating or mitigating circumstances.A knowledgeable federal defense attorney can make a significant difference at sentencing, advocating for departures or variances from the guidelines when appropriate, and presenting compelling mitigation evidence to secure the lowest possible sentence.At Spodek Law Group, we have a long history of obtaining favorable sentencing outcomes for our clients, even in the most serious cases.
When you’re facing the full weight and resources of the federal government, you need a powerhouse defense team in your corner. At Spodek Law Group, we are that team. Here’s what sets us apart:
We are a nationwide firm, with a presence from coast to coast. No matter where you are located, we can help. We have handled federal cases in district courts across the country, and have a deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of each jurisdiction.
Please feel free to email us any questions regarding services that we may assist you with. You may also contact us by mail, telephone or fax.
