Tucson, Arizona Federal Target Letters
Receiving a target letter, doesn’t necessarily mean – you’ll be charged with a crime. But, it does mean; the U.S. Attorney’s Office believes – there’s substantial evidence, linking you to a federal offense.As a seasoned criminal defense law firm, Spodek Law Group has helped countless clients – navigate the treacherous waters, of federal investigations. We understand, the anxiety and uncertainty – that comes with being in the crosshairs, of the federal government.In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know – about federal target letters, and how our battle-tested attorneys can help you fight back.
Contents
- 1 What is a Federal Target Letter?
- 2 Why Did I Receive a Target Letter?
- 3 What Should I Do, If I Receive a Federal Target Letter?
- 4 1. Contact an Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
- 5 2. DON’T Talk to Law Enforcement
- 6 3. Preserve All Relevant Documents
- 7 4. Be Honest With Your Lawyer
- 8 What Happens After I Receive a Target Letter?
- 9 1. Cooperate With the Investigation
- 10 2. Appear Before the Grand Jury
- 11 3. Challenge the Government’s Case
What is a Federal Target Letter?
A federal target letter is a formal notification, from the U.S. Department of Justice – informing you, that you’re the target of a federal criminal investigation.These letters typically outline:
- The nature of the investigation
- The specific crimes, you’re suspected of committing
- Your constitutional rights (like the right to remain silent)
- Instructions on how to respond (usually by contacting the prosecutor, or appearing before a grand jury)
It’s important to understand, that while a target letter is a serious matter – it’s not an indictment, or a guarantee of future charges. Rather, it’s a clear signal; that you’re under intense scrutiny – and the government believes, they have enough evidence, to potentially bring a case against you.
Why Did I Receive a Target Letter?
In most cases, individuals receive target letters – after a lengthy investigation, by federal agencies like:
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
These agencies spend months, sometimes YEARS – gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a case. Once they believe, they have enough to move forward – they’ll notify the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which then sends out the target letter.It’s a way for prosecutors, to put you on notice – and potentially, secure your cooperation. They might think, you have valuable information – or they want to give you a chance, to come clean.
What Should I Do, If I Receive a Federal Target Letter?
If you find a target letter, in your mailbox – the first thing, you should do is: REMAIN CALM. Resist the urge, to panic – or worse, try to handle it on your own.Here are the steps, you NEED to take:
1. Contact an Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
When you’re facing the full might, of the federal government – you NEED a seasoned legal advocate, in your corner. At Spodek Law Group, our battle-tested attorneys have DECADES of experience – fighting, and WINNING – federal cases.We know, the ins and outs of the federal justice system – and we’ve helped COUNTLESS clients, avoid charges – or secure favorable outcomes. Don’t try to navigate this alone, let us put our expertise to work for you.
2. DON’T Talk to Law Enforcement
If federal agents show up at your door, or try to question you – politely decline, and tell them you’re invoking your right to remain silent. ANYTHING you say, can and WILL be used against you.Remember, federal investigators are highly skilled – at getting people to incriminate themselves. DON’T fall for it. Let your attorney do the talking.
3. Preserve All Relevant Documents
If you have any records, emails, or other materials – that might be relevant to the investigation – DO NOT destroy them. Doing so, could be considered obstruction of justice – a serious federal crime, in its own right.Instead, gather all pertinent documents – and turn them over to your attorney. They’ll review everything, and determine the best course of action.
4. Be Honest With Your Lawyer
Your attorney is your greatest ally – and to mount an effective defense, they need to know EVERYTHING. Don’t hold back, even if you think it makes you look bad.Remember, your communications with your lawyer are protected – by attorney-client privilege. They CAN’T disclose anything you tell them, without your consent.
What Happens After I Receive a Target Letter?
After you receive a target letter, the ball is essentially in your court. The prosecutor has laid out their case – and now, it’s up to you to respond.Typically, you have a few options:
1. Cooperate With the Investigation
In some cases, the best move – is to play ball, with the government. If you have valuable information, or can provide substantial assistance – prosecutors MIGHT be willing, to cut you a deal.But, this is a RISKY proposition – and should ONLY be done, under the guidance of an experienced attorney. Remember, ANYTHING you say, can be used against you – so you need to tread carefully.
2. Appear Before the Grand Jury
Often, target letters come with a subpoena – compelling you to testify, before a federal grand jury. This is a secret proceeding, where prosecutors present evidence – and the grand jury decides, whether to bring charges.If you’re called to testify, you’ll be put under oath – and REQUIRED to answer questions truthfully. But, you also have the right, to invoke the Fifth Amendment – and refuse to answer anything, that might incriminate you.Again, this is a DELICATE situation – and one that requires, the skilled hand of a seasoned attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we’ve represented NUMEROUS clients – in grand jury proceedings, and we know how to protect your rights.
3. Challenge the Government’s Case
In some instances, the best defense – is a good offense. If the government’s evidence is weak, or their case is built on shaky legal ground – it might be possible, to get the charges dismissed – or win at trial.But, this is NOT a decision to be made lightly. Taking on the federal government, is a MONUMENTAL undertaking – and one that requires, a RELENTLESS legal team.At Spodek Law Group, we’ve FOUGHT and WON – some of the toughest federal cases out there. We leave NO stones unturned, and we’re not afraid – to go toe-to-toe with prosecutors.