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What Happens If My Company’s Financial Records Are Subpoenaed?
Last Updated on: 24th March 2025, 12:40 am
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY COMPANY’S FINANCIAL RECORDS ARE SUBPOENAED?
Subpoenas that were issued by federal agencies, like the Department of Justice or the IRS, can be scary. If you’re reading this, it’s because you need real answers. We are Spodek Law Group, a premier, and award winning, nationwide federal defense law firm created by Todd Spodek. We have offices coast to coast, and we bring over 50 years of combined experience to every case. We understand that, when your company’s records get subpoenaed, it feels like you’re under a microscope.
We get it. You’re stressed. You’re worried that failure to comply might mean hefty fines or even jail time. When financial records that were requested by the government are on the line, everything you’ve built could be at risk.
WHY DO THEY WANT MY FINANCIAL RECORDS?
Authorities who were investigating possible wrongdoing often rely on detailed subpoenas. If the government suspects tax fraud, money laundering, securities violations, or other financial crimes, they could demand access to your bank statements, invoices, and internal ledgers. Agents who were scrutinizing your transactions might believe you broke federal law. This suspicion can lead to serious charges that bring potential prison sentences and huge fines. We’re not talking about a minor inconvenience—this can jeopardize your entire future.
Records that were subpoenaed might also come from private lawsuits. In certain civil cases, the court may want documents that shed light on money coming in and going out of your business. If you ignore this, it can lead to contempt of court, which often involves penalties such as fines or jail time.
CAN I IGNORE THE SUBPOENA?
No. Ignoring a subpoena that was duly authorized can backfire. When you refuse to comply, prosecutors could charge you with contempt, which might land you behind bars. If this subpoena relates to a federal investigation, a single misstep can turn a bad situation into a legal disaster. Failing to respond can also prompt stricter scrutiny, meaning the government might dig deeper into every part of your business. You don’t want that.
WHAT PENALTIES CAN I FACE?
Obstruction charges that were filed by federal agencies can result in hefty fines or prison time. A judge who was frustrated by your lack of cooperation might impose daily fines until you comply. Prosecutors who are building a criminal case could claim you’re hiding evidence, which often leads to harsher sentences if you’re found guilty of other offenses. This is not a harmless mistake. Getting it wrong can bankrupt your business, upend your reputation, and take away your freedom.
HOW WE DEFEND YOU
At Spodek Law Group, we are EXPERIENCED, DEDICATED, and available 24/7 to help. Our rock star team of NYC federal criminal defense attorneys has been featured on major media outlets, like Fox 5, the NY Post, and more. Todd Spodek, who was Anna Delvey’s lawyer, leads us with the same fearlessness we bring to every single case.
We begin by analyzing the subpoena that was served on your company. Our strategic plan includes working closely with you to see what the government is really after. Then we assess possible defenses:
- Motion to Quash: We might argue the subpoena is too broad, irrelevant, or violates your rights.
- Negotiation: We can often limit how much data you hand over, which protects sensitive info.
- Challenging Evidence: Evidence that was illegally obtained can be thrown out. This leads to a major advantage if the government cannot rely on it in court.
Every move we make is focused on getting you the best possible outcome. We talk directly to prosecutors who are pressuring you, and we fight for your interests at every stage.
QUICK FAQ TABLE
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I have to comply? | Yes. A valid subpoena requires a response, or you risk contempt. |
| What if I can’t find the records? | You must show genuine effort. Destroying or hiding them can lead to obstruction charges. |
| Can I negotiate the scope? | Often, yes. Our firm can request limitations to protect overly sensitive data. |
| Will I be charged with a crime? | That depends on the investigation. A subpoena does not automatically mean criminal charges, but it can be a warning sign. |
If your records that were requested suggest illegal behavior, the risk of prosecution is real. This means you have to act fast. The best way to protect yourself is to hire a top rated legal team who has handled similar situations many times before. If done right, you might avoid charges altogether—or minimize potential penalties.
This subpoena is a chance to show you can comply with the law—or a chance to ruin your future if you handle it poorly. You must step up now. At Spodek Law Group, we hate excuses. If you want to keep your company alive and protect your freedom, do the work. Gather documents carefully, be transparent with your attorney, and let us fight for you.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
We are Spodek Law Group, and we know how to use every legal angle. We think in systems, not quick fixes. We spot problems at the root cause, and we design a game plan to crush them. If you want us on your side, call for a risk free consultation. We are available 24/7—coast to coast. We push hard, we play to win, and we hold you to a higher standard. We can help you protect everything you’ve built.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique. To get specific legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. For more info on subpoenas, visit SEC.gov or IRS.gov. No part of this content is legal or professional advice for your specific situation.