Criminal Defense Lawyers

Potential Exposure & Consequences of a Federal Investigation

There are a number of federal law enforcement agencies that conduct investigations into potential criminal activity. One of the most well-known is the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI is just one of several entities capable of investigating and prosecuting a crime, though. The other most common ones include the Postal Inspection Service, Secret Service, and IRS.

If an agent from one of these federal investigation entities makes contact with you, it’s generally for one of five potential reasons:

• You are a witness in a criminal proceeding
• You are being considered a person of interest in an open investigation
• You are the subject of an investigation being conducted by a grand jury
• You are a target of a federal investigation
• There is a warrant out for your arrest

As a Witness

When you are called upon to act as a witness in a federal criminal investigation, this doesn’t always mean that you saw a crime being committed or observed any wrongdoing. criminal trials often have witnesses called for a variety of different reasons. Some witnesses might be important for establishing the timeline of an event, some might be called upon to provide an alibi, and some might be asked to provide expert testimony.

A witness in a criminal trial is believed by the government to have information that can aid in the case against a person. Alternatively, you might be called upon as a witness for the defense to help aid in proving that person’s innocence. Some witnesses might also be aiding cases against businesses and corporations rather than individuals.

Even though witnesses aren’t being investigated by the police, they have the right to remain silent and to speak with an attorney. You are allowed to ask for a criminal lawyer even if you’re not being accused of any criminal activity. The law enforcement officials may act like this is something that indicates your guilt, but that’s a manipulation tactic to make you waive your rights.

The United States government does not have the right to force you to speak to them in their office, your office, your home, or any other area. You can always invoke your right to counsel before you talk to them. You are also not obligated to go anywhere with any FBI representatives unless you have been arrested or been issued a federal subpoena to appear before a grand jury or court.

Person of Interest

If you’re a person of interest in a criminal investigation, this means that the government agency investigating believes that you might be the perpetrator or one of the perpetrators. Alternatively, they may believe that if you didn’t commit the crime, you have information about who did. “Person of interest” is not a term with a legal definition, and it can be broadly applied to any individual that an investigator believes is relevant to their case. In many cases, you are a “person of interest” when you’re suspected of committing a crime, but there isn’t enough evidence to charge you.

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.

Load more

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

Should you be contacted and told that you’re a person of interest in any ongoing investigation, you should get in contact with your lawyer immediately. It doesn’t matter whether you have information or have no idea what the agent is talking about. If you cooperate with law enforcement without a lawyer present, they will manipulate you into making statements of guilt. Any statements you make can later be used against you if the government decides to charge you.

Subject

There is a difference between being a person of interest in an investigation and being the subject of an investigation. If a federal agent tells you that you are the subject of an investigation, you should call your lawyer right away. Even if the agent says that you’re not in trouble, ask for your lawyer and do not give any information.

The Department of Justice is legally required to warn individuals that they’re the subject of investigations before they can be compelled to testify before a grand jury.

Target

If you’re the target of an investigation, that means that a grand jury or prosecutor has deemed that there is significant evidence linking you to a crime. The subject of an investigation isn’t always a defendant, but the target always is. If you’re an employee or officer of a business or organization being considered a target, you as an individual will not be considered a target unless there is evidence found that you were part of the organization’s potential criminal conduct.

People who are targets of investigations are just one step away from having an arrest warrant issued.

Warrant

When a warrant is out for your arrest, the federal agent can arrest you because it’s been determined that there is sufficient evidence to charge you with a crime.