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How serious is a federal target letter?
How serious is a federal target letter?
If you’ve received a Federal Target Letter (see the U.S. Department of Justice guidelines at justice.gov) or a Federal Grand Jury Subpoena, it means federal prosecutors believe you have significant involvement in, or critical knowledge of, a federal crime.
We understand: receiving this type of letter is stressful. It can feel overwhelming, and you might be unsure what comes next.
REGARDLESS of where you stand in the process, know that our NYC Criminal Lawyers have experience dealing with these cases nationwide.
What exactly is a Federal Target Letter?
A Federal Target Letter is typically sent by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, alerting you that you’re the focus—often called the “target”—of a federal criminal investigation. In essence, it’s a courtesy notice that they have evidence or strong suspicion you have committed a federal crime.
Underlined Fact:
Under federal law, a “target” is someone the prosecutor or grand jury has substantial evidence against, linking them to a crime. (See Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure at uscourts.gov)
Once you get a Target Letter, you need to move fast and get legal representation. This is not the time to sit back and see what happens.
What Crimes Could Be Involved?
The range is vast:
- White Collar Offenses (like wire fraud, bank fraud, money laundering)
- Drug Trafficking
- Conspiracy Charges
- Tax Crimes (including tax fraud)
- Public Corruption Cases
Any of these crimes can lead to harsh penalties—sometimes decades in prison or hefty fines. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines (found at ussc.gov) outline potential punishments, and judges often adhere closely to them.
Federal Grand Gury Subpoena – Explained
A Federal Grand Jury Subpoena compels you to appear before a grand jury or produce documents/evidence. Failing to comply, or lying under oath, can result in further criminal charges like perjury or obstruction of justice (see the relevant statutes at govinfo.gov under 18 U.S.C. §§ 1621, 1503).
What Should I do if I get one?
- Never Ignore It: Failure to comply can lead to contempt. You are able to know your rights and speak to an attorney to know how to communicate, but never ignore it.
- Speak to an Attorney Immediately: We’ll review the scope of the subpoena, advise on Fifth Amendment privileges, and negotiate production deadlines with the federal prosecutors on your behalf. We have experience in how to handle these situations.
- Avoid Self-Incrimination: Anything you say can be used against you. We make sure you understand your rights before you testify.
Potential Penalties and Punishments.
Depending on the charge:
- Lengthy Prison Terms: Convictions can lead to 5, 10, or sometimes even 20+ years. Some cases can even have life sentences.
- Massive Fines: White collar crimes often have multi-million-dollar fines.
- Restitution: You could be required to pay victims or financial institutions back.
- Asset Forfeiture: The government can seize property, bank accounts, or anything deemed “proceeds” of crime.
If the prosecution believes you’re the driving force behind the offense, the sentencing recommendations can be severe. We know how to craft arguments that reduce your culpability, highlight mitigating factors, and possibly lower your sentencing guideline range.
Strategies We Would use to Defend You:
We have over 50 years of combined experience defending clients nationwide. Our approach is simple:
-
Immediate Communication with Prosecutors
We reach out to the Assistant U.S. Attorney handling your case. Our goal: figure out what evidence they have against you, and gauge whether we can negotiate a resolution—sometimes even before charges are filed. -
Comprehensive Investigation
Our team combs through evidence, interviews potential witnesses, and partners with expert consultants (like forensic accountants or private investigators). We challenge how evidence was obtained. If the government seized your property or data without a valid warrant, we argue it’s inadmissible. -
Holistic Defense Strategy
We look at mitigating factors (lack of criminal intent, entrapment, or mistaken identity). We compile evidence that presents you in a positive light. Our NYC Criminal Lawyers know the system coast to coast—meaning we understand how different federal courts operate. -
Plea Bargains or Trial
Not every case goes to trial. Sometimes the best move is negotiating a plea. Other times, it’s fighting in front of a jury. We excel at both. If there’s a path to exonerate you, we’ll find it.
We can help you navigate this stressful time. Our objective is straightforward: get your charges dismissed or minimized. We do everything possible to protect your future.
SPODEK LAW GROUP KNOWS THE FEDERAL SYSTEM
We’ve handled complex, headline-making cases. We’ve been trusted by clients nationwide who needed top-tier representation.
WHY CHOOSE US?
- We are available 24/7
- We are ready to fight for you
- We have immense experience dealing with federal prosecutors
- We are not afraid to go to trial
If you’ve received a Federal Target Letter or Federal Grand Jury Subpoena, it’s time to protect yourself.
CONTACT US FOR A RISK FREE CONSULTATION.
Our Federal Criminal Attorneys will walk you through every step, from dealing with investigators to preparing for grand jury testimony, and, if necessary, defending you at trial.
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