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Can I refuse or ignore a federal grand jury subpoena?

February 18, 2025
Can you refuse or ignore a federal grand jury subpeona? 

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When you’re on our website, it’s likely because you’ve just received a federal grand jury subpoena – and have one question: “Can I refuse or ignore it?”

We get it. This is scary. At Spodek Law Group – we understand your fears and concerns. We have over 50 years of combined experience dealing with tough federal defense situations just like yours. Our NYC criminal lawyers, recognized nationwide, have handled high-profile matters such as the juror in Ghislaine Maxwell mistrial scandal and “fake heiress” Anna Delvey.

We deliver the same excellence of service and attention to detail to each and every client. We work nationwide and regardless of your location, we can help you. Give us a call today to see how.

The Truth About Federal Grand Jury Subpoenas

A grand jury subpoena is not an optional invitation. Underline this. It’s serious. A subpoena is a legally enforceable court order to appear and provide testimony or documents.

Ignoring it can lead to severe consequences, including contempt of court, hefty fines, and even jail time. According to the Department of Justice (source), refusing to comply with a grand jury subpoena can result in either civil or criminal contempt proceedings.

SO, WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU IGNORE A SUBPOENA?

Criminal Contempt.

Civil Contempt.

Substantial Financial Penalties.

Potential Prison Sentence.

Those are not outcomes you want.

Regardless of the situation, failing to respond won’t make the problem go away. If you’re facing a federal grand jury subpoena, you need the best possible legal representation.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE PENALTIES?

  • Fines: Multiple attorneys and government agencies can testify to the fact that financial sanctions can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the case.
  • Jail/Prison Time: Felony convictions for contempt can lead to lengthy incarceration. It’s that serious.
  • Collateral Consequences: Even a misdemeanor contempt charge can disrupt your job, immigration status, and overall reputation.

We understand this is overwhelming. We can help you.

NYC CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS

WHY HIRING A CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER MATTERS

Refusing or ignoring a subpoena is dangerous territory. At Spodek Law Group – we are recognized as a top rated state, and federal, criminal defense law firm. Our team is dedicated to safeguarding your constitutional rights.

Here’s how we handle your defense:

  1. Review the Subpoena: We examine its scope, deadlines, and legal basis. We identify potential pitfalls and craft a strategy to challenge or comply in a way that protects you.
  2. Negotiation with Prosecutors: Sometimes, prosecutors will issue broad subpoenas. We negotiate with them to narrow the scope, or potentially quash it if it overreaches.
  3. Minimize Your Exposure: If responding is absolutely mandatory, we aim to prevent self-incrimination and explore immunity options where appropriate.
  4. Possible Motion to Quash: If the subpoena is overly broad, irrelevant, or violates your rights, we can file a motion to quash or modify it.
  5. Proactive Legal Strategy: Our firm takes a thorough approach, analyzing every angle for a successful resolution.

If you received a target letter or suspect you’re the focus of a federal investigation – ignoring it is the worst possible thing to do.

EXPERIENCED FEDERAL DEFENSE

We have extensive experience dealing with complex federal allegations, from white collar crimes to drug offenses. Our attorneys have been seen on major news outlets and have a nationwide presence.

Regardless of the stage of your case, we can help you.

LEGAL AUTHORITY: FEDERAL STATUTES AND RELEVANT GUIDANCE

Under 28 U.S.C. § 1826, individuals who refuse to comply with a grand jury subpoena can be held in civil contempt. Similarly, 18 U.S.C. § 401 grants courts broad power to punish criminal contempt. These are not empty statutes. The law has teeth, and ignoring it can lead to serious penalties.

For more official information, you can refer to the U.S. Department of Justice’s discussion of grand jury procedures (link) which outlines the broad authority of federal grand juries.

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If you’ve been served with a federal subpoena – or you believe you’re being investigated – do not wait. We urge you to speak with an attorney immediately.

Our Philosophy

At Spodek Law Group, we believe in achieving the best possible outcome for every client. We understand how stressful a federal subpoena can be. We also know the power of the federal government is immense, and you need an equally formidable team on your side.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NEXT?

  1. Don’t Panic – but don’t ignore the subpoena.
  2. Contact Our Team – We’re available 24/7 for a risk free consultation.
  3. Gather Documents – Bring any relevant paperwork, letters, or notices you’ve received.
  4. Follow Our Advice – We’ll guide you step by step, from the initial response to final resolution.

We have offices throughout Long Island and NYC, and we represent clients nationwide, coast to coast.

CONSEQUENCES OF DELAYING

If you ignore or stall, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal judges will not hesitate to exercise their authority. It’s that simple.

OUR EXPERIENCE SPEAKS FOR ITSELF

Over 50 years of combined experience.

Represented prominent clients like Anna Delvey.

Handled high-profile federal investigations.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU

When you hire Spodek Law Group, you’re getting a top-rated federal defense team. We have an online portal for easy access to your case information 24/7. We’re transparent with billing and dedicated to protecting your rights.

We fight. We protect. We win.

UNDERLINE THIS TRUTH: A federal grand jury subpoena cannot be simply brushed aside.

If you’re reading this, it’s because you’re serious about protecting your future.

We encourage you to reach out for a risk free consultation.

(888) 997-5177

No one deserves to face a federal grand jury alone.

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No recipient of content from this site, client or otherwise, should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this article without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice. All information provided here is for general informational purposes only and may not reflect current legal developments. Spodek Law Group and its attorneys expressly disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this article. Any information sent to Spodek Law Group via Internet e-mail or through this website is done on a non-confidential basis. Communication with Spodek Law Group via Internet e-mail through this site does not constitute or create an attorney-client relationship between Spodek Law Group and any recipients.

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Todd Spodek

Founding Partner

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RALPH P. FRANCHO, JR

Associate

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JEREMY FEIGENBAUM

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ELIZABETH GARVEY

Associate

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CLAIRE BANKS

Associate

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RAJESH BARUA

Of-Counsel

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CHAD LEWIN

Of-Counsel

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