Obviously, if the feds are investigating you, you're going to want to consult an attorney. The problem is that the feds will come and talk to you, asking if you want to provide some information. If you provide information without consulting a lawyer, you may inadvertently incriminate yourself, resulting in serious legal consequences.
They'll start asking you some questions. Sometimes, they'll tape-record the conversation. The bottom line is that if you say anything deemed incriminating, even during the investigation phase, they may not even tape-record certain statements.
Also, in interviews, they might give, and they might say that you said something that you really didn't say, or they may mischaracterize what you said during a federal investigation. Now you're in the unenviable position of being charged with a federal crime later on and then trying to use your statement against you.
Retain a Federal Criminal Lawyer Immediately
Therefore, if you're being investigated federally, you should consult an attorney immediately. Let the attorney do the talking for you. Federal criminal defense attorneys are a special breed. They are well-versed in dealing with the FBI, Secret Service, Homeland Security, and the Drug Enforcement Agency, as well as all the branches that comprise the federal government's investigative body. Their expertise will ensure you are in the best possible position.
Those branches were directed directly to the prosecutors — the Assistant United States Attorneys and investigators will provide them with all the information, including any statements you might make. So, obviously, you want to be in the strongest position.
Let your attorney do the talking. Their expertise and experience will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of a federal investigation. Let your attorney meet with the FBI and begin to make the best decisions on your behalf.
Protecting Yourself During a Federal Criminal Investigation
You must avoid putting yourself in a compromising position regarding a federal criminal investigation. Once I am retained on the case, I will call the agent, introduce myself, provide my information, ask questions, and gather as much information as possible.
If there's a prosecutor on the case, I will obtain that prosecutor's information, speak with them, and convey my client's perspective — their side of the story. Then, based on my conversation with that prosecutor, I can now advise my client on how they should handle themselves — whether they should meet with the government or remain silent. This is a crucial first step in the investigative phase of a federal criminal case.
If the federal government investigates you, it's crucial to consult an attorney as soon as possible. Let that attorney speak on your behalf and start making the right moves for you. Your case is our priority.
Hedding Law Firm is a highly respected criminal defense firm located in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles County. We have a proven track record of successfully defending clients in federal criminal cases. You can find us at 16000 Ventura Blvd, #1208, Encino, CA 91436, and 633 West Fifth Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071. Contact us for a free case evaluation at (213) 542-0994.
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