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Are target letters common in federal cases?
Are Target Letters Common in Federal Cases?
Crimes that lead to Receiving a Target Letter
- White Collar Crimes: Charges like mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy often trigger target letters.
- Drug Trafficking: Serious narcotics cases, especially those crossing state lines, can come with official warnings to potential defendants.
- Financial Offenses: Securities fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion—these are classic situations where a prosecutor might send a target letter.
- Public Corruption or Bribery: Any case involving government officials, or allegations of bribery, can lead to a target letter as part of the government’s investigative process.
YES, TARGET LETTERS ARE COMMON
Receiving a target letter isn’t unusual in federal criminal cases. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) routinely uses them in white collar offenses, drug crimes, financial fraud, and other federal offenses. In fact, prosecutors often send target letters before issuing an indictment, hoping to encourage dialogue—sometimes they even invite the recipient to testify before a grand jury.
Potential Penalties and Punishments
Depending on the alleged crime, these penalties can include:
- Jail/Prison Time: Felony convictions might mean multiple years behind bars.
- Financial Fines: Ranging from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the scope of the offense.
- Restitution: You might have to pay back victims for their losses.
- Probation: In some cases, judges opt for strict supervised release instead of incarceration.
What should you do if you get a Federal Target Letter?
Stay Calm and Reach out to Spodek Law Group.
We have over 50 years of combined experience handling difficult federal cases, and we understand how intimidating this situation is. The instant you receive a target letter, it’s time to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. You do not want to speak to prosecutors on your own—or ignore them, either.
Our Defense Strategies
At Spodek Law Group, we take a very hands-on approach when defending you against federal allegations. Here’s how we generally proceed:
- Immediate Review of the Evidence: We examine the target letter, any documents you’ve received, and the potential statutes you’re accused of violating.
- Investigate and Gather Proof: We consult with forensic experts, analyze financial records, or review electronic communications—whatever it takes to poke holes in the government’s case.
- File Pre-Trial Motions: If evidence was obtained illegally or if a grand jury procedure was flawed, we’ll file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Negotiate with Prosecutors: Sometimes, an early resolution can be reached. If it’s in your best interest, we aim to reduce or dismiss charges.
- Go to Trial: If the government refuses to offer a fair deal, we’re prepared to fight aggressively in court.
EXPERIENCED FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS
Todd Spodek, our managing partner, has handled high-profile matters—like representation of Anna Sorokin (“fake heiress” Anna Delvey) and involvement in the Ghislaine Maxwell mistrial juror scandal. Todd’s knowledge of the federal system, combined with our roster of criminal defense lawyers, means we know how to prepare for grand jury proceedings, negotiate with federal prosecutors, and craft cutting-edge defense strategies.
RISK-FREE CONSULTATION
What should I do next? The moment you receive a target letter—or even suspect the feds are investigating you—reach out to a criminal defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we’re available 24/7, coast to coast. We will happily discuss the details of your case and explain your options. We pride ourselves on offering a risk free consultation to anyone who needs help.