What To Do First If You Get A Target Letter.

People often speculate and some will even joke that they are the target of a federal investigation. However, receiving a target letter stating you are indeed being investigated is no laughing matter. A target letter can confirm your worst suspicions so you should take it very seriously. If you have recently received a target letter, here are some actions you should take.

#1. Understand how Target Letters Work

What is a target letter? Basically a target letter is an official documents sent from a United States attorney letting you know you are the target of an investigation. The letter may also ask you to come in and "proffer" or cooperate with authorities in exchange for protection. This could be in the way of an interview, providing testimony to a grand jury, or turning over certain other evidence.

In sending a target letter, prosecutors hope to scare you into taking action. Many times, the thought of doing prison time is enough to make people squeal-particularly if they believe they are also being protected in the process. The truth is that anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law, which is why you should never speak to the authorities without legal counsel present.

#2. Hire an Attorney