Understanding Criminal Investigations in New York City

In New York City, the police department is not the only agency that has the authority to to carry out criminal investigations. There are also many other local, state, and federal organizations which can conduct criminal investigations. Some of these agencies may include:

Agencies with Investigation Authority

• The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
• The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF)
• The Office of the State Attorney General (OAG)
• The New York City Department of Investigations (DOI)
• The Office of the New York State Inspector General (OIG)
• The Department of Housing and Urban Development

These are only a few of the local, state, and federal agencies that have the authority to conduct a criminal investigation. And many of these agencies have overlapping authority during an investigation. Some of these agencies have a broad authority to conduct investigations on a wide range of offenses. And some of the agencies are more centered toward specific types of offenses.

The Danger of the "Wait-and-Hope" Approach

In New York, there are many individuals which are under the assumption that it is better to take a passive approach in the hopes that a prosecutor won't file charges. However, this is a mistake which can lead to a an individual under investigation being charged. It is vital to contact a criminal defense attorney immediately if you feel that you could be the subject of an investigation.

What Are the Benefits of Obtaining a New York City Defense Attorney During an Investigation?

There are many advantages to hiring a criminal defense attorney if you are under an investigation. A New York City criminal defense attorney can advise an individual throughout an investigation. To ensure that the individual's rights are protected. In addition, a defense attorney may be able to mitigate the charges or consequences or avoid criminal charges altogether.

Protecting Your Rights During Questioning

An individual should always consult with an attorney before talking to investigators. When individuals are under an investigation, they may not understand that they have the right to refuse to answer any questions asked by investigators. If an individual decides to speak with authorities without an attorney present, it could have a significant impact on the outcome of the investigation.

Counter-Investigation and Buffer Protection

If an individual retains a skilled criminal defense attorney, the attorney will protect the individual under investigation by beginning a counter-investigation in order to help prevent charges. In addition, a criminal defense attorney can also provide a buffer between an individual under investigation and investigators. In addition, a criminal defense attorney can also make certain that an individual understands his or her rights and when they should exercise these rights. And an attorney can advise an individual about the best times to speak with investigators.

Avoiding Self-Incrimination

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When an individual under an investigation has an attorney by his or her side, charges may be able to be avoided. Sadly, those which are subjects of investigations often try and prevent charges by providing elaborate explanations to an investigator. In most cases, these individuals usually cause themselves more harm than good. Even if the story was true or fabricated, how an individual handles himself or herself in front of investigators is vital. Because the investigators are the ones which can decide whether or not to ask the prosecutor to press charges.

Strategic Communication with Law Enforcement

In most circumstances the best course of action, which may prevent a criminal charge, is to have a criminal defense attorney speak with law enforcement officials and investigators. To present any evidence on behalf of the individual under the investigation. In addition, a criminal defense attorney may also conduct his or her own investigation on behalf of a client. During an attorney investigation, an attorney may speak with witnesses whom have a direct influence on the investigation. However, it typically takes criminal defense attorneys several months in order to perform a detailed investigation. The sooner an individual under investigation consults with an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better the chances of avoiding charges. If an individual waits too long to get help from a criminal defense attorney, charges could be filed before he or she has a chance to conduct an investigation and gather the evidence which is needed to prevent charges.

What Are Some of the Downsides to Not Hiring a criminal Defense Attorney?

There are many consequences an individual under investigation may face if he or she fails to contact an attorney. The "wait-and-hope" approach yields many disadvantages that include accidentally incriminating yourself, inadvertently leading investigators toward evidence that could be used to press charges against you. And missed opportunities to obtain evidence and speak with witnesses which can help with your defense.

Take Action Now

If you are the subject of a criminal investigation in New York, it is crucial to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. When an individual hires an attorney early in the investigation process, the are opportunities which will help increase the chances of a favorable result.