Federal Case Investigations

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.