What Not To Do If You Are Under Federal Investigation

Avoid These Pitfalls When Under Federal Investigation

If you've been subjected to a federal criminal investigation, you're probably under a great deal of stress. You may be confused or uncertain of how to handle the whole thing. This is a perfectly normal reaction. The severity and workings of a federal criminal or white-collar criminal case are very different than an equal or similar case on the state level. You'll need the assistance of a skilled attorney that will fight for your rights. In many cases, we've been able to beat or significantly reduce the charges. A federal conviction can bring many negative consequences. Difficulty in finding employment, family and relationship strains, embarrassment, and significant fines and jail time can all occur if you're not properly prepared.

How Investigations Work

Federal investigations work by being notified by one of many ways or a combination of more than one. A target letter or a subpoena are common, especially with white collar crime investigations. These letters will inform you that you're being investigated and what steps need to be taken. Another method is by a federal agent showing up at your doorstep and trying to question you regarding the matter. If you're unavailable, they'll leave contact information to get back to them. A search warrant is yet another method that's utilized. Speaking to friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, or anyone else the feds deem useful in their investigation is also a common tactic. One way or another, they're determined to get the information that they've been looking for. More information on federal investigations is available through the United States Department of Justice, Offices of the United States Attorneys. In the investigations process, it's imperative that you're both compliant and hire an attorney at once. Misspoken words, misrepresentations or any damning evidence that's obtained during this process will most likely be used against you. Your federal criminal investigation attorney will instruct you on how to handle these matters.

Things to Avoid During the Investigation Process

Being Dishonest or Making False Representations

Federal investigators are skilled at knowing exactly what to look for when hunting for information. Chances are, you didn't invent the crime that you're being accused of, so the chances of them having run into the same or a similar scenario is incredibly likely. They're also used to dealing with people trying to fool them and can typically spot lies and dishonesty very quickly. Throughout history, many of the high-profile crimes that have been in the media are big stories not so much for the crime itself, but because the suspect had lied about it. Lying also often leads to additional charges being tacked on. The prosecutors will aggressively pursue these charges. This could significantly increase the fines and jail in many cases.

Destroying Evidence and Documents

Destroying documentation and evidence is a sure-fire way raise red flags with an investigator. This includes any paperwork, electronic files such as email, or any correspondence. Even unrelated items should remain intact and stored as the normally would be. Any information or notes that aren't seized for the purposes of the investigation should clearly be marked with "attorney-client privileged information" at the top of the document. This prevents the information from being shared unless it's been deemed otherwise by your attorney. The destruction of evidence could lead you to additional charges including, (but not limited to) obstruction of justice.

Discussing Your Case with Others

Discussing your case with anyone including loved ones is strictly off limits. Anyone you share the information with may repeat it. This goes for even the most trustworthy friends and family members. If secretive or confidential information is leaked, it has a high potential for getting into the wrong hands and could destroy your case. This would also fall under the obstruction of justice umbrella. The matter should stay between yourself and your attorney, only.

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Our federal criminal and white-collar crime attorneys can prepare a solid defense for your case. They have helped many others to either win their case or significantly reduce the charges. Don't risk your future by hiring an inexperienced attorney or attempting to represent yourself. Get in touch with us and get the representation you deserve, today.