Criminal Defense Lawyers

Why would the FBI send me a letter?

Getting a Letter from the FBI? Don’t Panic, Here’s What It Could Mean

So you just got a letter from the FBI. I bet that got your heart racing a little bit. Take a deep breath though – an FBI letter doesn’t necessarily mean you’re in trouble. The FBI sends out letters for all kinds of reasons, and most of the time it’s just routine official business. Let me walk you through some of the common reasons the FBI might send you a letter so you have a better idea of what it could be about.

Subpoenas for Testimony or Documents

One of the main reasons you might get a letter from the FBI is that they want you to testify before a federal grand jury or provide documents related to an investigation. They send out subpoenas when they need information that people won’t – or can’t – give voluntarily.Getting a subpoena doesn’t mean you’re suspected of a crime though! It just means the FBI thinks you have information that could help their investigation. You do have to comply with the subpoena or you could face contempt of court charges. But don’t panic – talk to a lawyer if you’re unsure about how to respond.

National Security Letters

Another reason for an FBI letter is if they got your personal information through something called a National Security Letter. Basically the FBI can get these letters to force companies to hand over info about you without a court order.NSLs are controversial because there’s no judge overseeing them. Reforms now let you challenge gag orders that come with NSLs though, so that’s progress! The FBI has to notify you if they used an NSL to get your private data.

Requests for Voluntary Interviews

Sometimes the FBI sends letters asking people to come in voluntarily for interviews. They usually do this if they haven’t been able to reach you by phone or in person.You don’t have to comply with voluntary interview requests if you don’t want to. But it might look suspicious if you say no, and they could always subpoena you later anyway. If you’re unsure, talk to a lawyer about whether or not to consent.

Updates on Investigations

If you’re involved in an FBI investigation – whether as a victim, witness, or suspect – you may get letters with case updates. These could include new evidence found, requests for help, or notices that someone was arrested.The FBI does this to keep people in the loop on cases they’re involved in and to maintain records of the investigation.

Warnings About Threats

On rare occasions, the FBI might send a letter warning you about threats to your safety that they’ve uncovered. For example, if they find out a terrorist group or foreign government is targeting you.These warnings are meant to alert people to danger and help prevent harm. If you get one, take it seriously and follow up with the FBI about precautions.

Requests for Information

FBI agents might send letters asking for specific info related to their cases. If they think you know something that could help an investigation, they’ll formally ask you to cooperate.You don’t have to comply with information requests if you don’t want to. But the FBI may keep coming back or get a subpoena if you refuse.

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.

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Responses to Tips or Complaints

If you submitted a tip or complaint to the FBI online or by phone, you may get a follow-up letter. This just acknowledges they got your information and gives you contact details for any further communication.

Don’t Panic, But Do Call a Lawyer

I know getting an FBI letter can be scary, but don’t assume you’re in trouble. Reach out to the FBI agent listed for clarification. And it’s always a good idea to have a lawyer review any concerning letters from the FBI. They can advise you on your rights and obligations.With some help from a legal expert, you’ll get through this FBI letter situation just fine. The key is staying calm, getting more info, and not ignoring it. Let me know if you have any other questions!