What to do if a federal agent approaches you? (FBI, DEA, U.S. Marshals, Border Patrol, Department of Homeland Security, Secret Service, ATF, etc.)
- You should tell the agent:
- I will not make any statements;
- I do not consent to any search; and
- I want to speak to my lawyer
- This will stop all questioning.
- If you make a statement to a federal agent you could be charged with the crime of making a false statement to a federal agent.
What happens during the initial investigation of a federal case?
- You may be contacted by a federal agent.
- You may receive a target letter from the feds indicating you are a target of a federal investigation.
- You may be contacted because you are a material witness.
- Contact a Lawyer at Greening Law Immediately if You Are Contacted by a Federal Agent.
How are federal cases different from state court criminal cases?
- Federal agents spend months investigating cases and consulting with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- Many times, agents will:
- wiretap your phone
- conduct video surveillance
- hire a snitch to collect evidence against you
- You are normally not arrested until the investigation is completed.
Time is of the Essence. You Must Hire an Experienced Federal Lawyer Before the Case is Indicted
- Many times, Assistant U.S. Attorneys do not have discretion to dismiss charges
after indictment. - It is imperative your lawyer negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office before indictment to minimize the possible punishment.
