Target Letters

Receiving a target letter from federal prosecutors is a significant moment that requires immediate attention and careful consideration. At Candice Fields Law PC, we understand the gravity of this situation and are here to guide you through this critical phase of a federal investigation.

What Is a Target Letter During a Federal Criminal Defense Investigation?

A target letter is an official notification from the U.S. Department of Justice informing you that you are a "target" of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. Being a "target" means that federal prosecutors have substantial evidence linking you to the commission of a crime and consider you a likely defendant in a criminal prosecution.

This notification typically arrives by mail and serves as a formal warning that you are under investigation, giving you the opportunity to obtain legal representation before any charges are filed.

Types of Federal Target Letters

Here's a clear explanation of the different types of target letters you might receive:

• Grand Jury Target Letter: The most common type of target letter, informing you that you're the subject of a grand jury investigation. This letter typically invites you to testify before the grand jury while warning that you're a target of their investigation.
• Agency Investigation Letter: Sent by federal agencies like the FBI, IRS, or SEC, notifying you that you're the target of their specific investigation. These letters often request interviews or document production.
• Supplemental Target Letter: A follow-up letter providing additional information about an ongoing investigation or updating you about new areas of inquiry that now include you as a target.
• Pre-Indictment Target Letter: Sent when prosecutors are preparing to seek an indictment, often giving you a final opportunity to cooperate or negotiate before formal charges.
• Subject/Witness Conversion Letter: Informs you that your status has changed from a witness or subject to a target of the investigation, indicating increased legal jeopardy.

At Candice Fields Law PC, we have extensive experience handling all types of federal target letters and can help you understand exactly what you're facing and how to respond appropriately.

Reasons You May Receive a Target Letter From a Federal Agency

Federal agencies typically send target letters in these main situations:

• Financial Crimes Federal investigators may target you during investigations of tax fraud, bank fraud, money laundering, or major financial schemes.
• White-Collar Criminal Activity You might receive a target letter if you're suspected of corporate fraud, embezzlement, or involvement in bribery schemes.
• Federal Program Violations Investigations into government contract fraud, grant fraud, or serious regulatory violations often trigger target letters.
• Criminal Conspiracy If prosecutors believe you're connected to a larger criminal enterprise or have knowledge of organized criminal activities, you may receive a target letter.
• Professional Practice Issues Healthcare professionals, lawyers, or other licensed practitioners may receive target letters during investigations of billing fraud or serious professional misconduct.

The key point is this: A target letter means prosecutors have substantial evidence linking you to a federal crime and consider you a likely defendant in future criminal proceedings.

What The Target Letter Will Say

A federal target letter usually contains several key pieces of information:

Basic Investigation Details The letter identifies which U.S. Attorney's Office or federal agency is conducting the investigation and may mention the general nature of the crime being investigated.

• Your Status as a Target The letter explicitly states that you are a "target" of the investigation, meaning prosecutors believe they have substantial evidence linking you to a crime.
• Your Rights The letter outlines your constitutional rights, including your right to remain silent and your right to be represented by an attorney.
• Grand Jury Information If applicable, the letter may mention grand jury proceedings and whether you're invited to testify voluntarily before the grand jury.
• Contact Information The letter will include contact details for the prosecutor handling the case and may request that your attorney contact them.

Remember: While target letters can vary in specific content, they all serve the same purpose - to formally notify you that you're under federal investigation and to outline your basic rights in this situation.

What To Do If You Receive a Targe Letter

The actions you take after receiving a target letter can significantly impact your case's outcome. Here are the essential steps to protect your rights and interests:

• Contact a Federal Defense Attorney Immediately: Don't attempt to handle this situation alone. Seek representation from an attorney with specific experience in federal criminal defense and the type of investigation you're facing. This should be your first action, ideally within 24 hours of receiving the letter.
• Preserve All Documentation: Maintain absolutely everything that could be relevant to your case - emails, text messages, financial records, business documents, and any other materials. Don't delete anything, even if you think it might be harmful. Destroying evidence can result in additional criminal charges and severe consequences.
• Maintain Complete Silence: Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney - this includes family members, friends, colleagues, or business partners. Even casual conversations can be used against you later, and the people you speak with could be called as witnesses.
• Decline All Interview Requests: Federal agents may contact you for an interview. Regardless of how informal or friendly they seem, do not agree to speak with them without your attorney present. Any statements you make can be used against you, even if you're trying to explain your innocence.
• Document Everything Moving Forward: Keep detailed records of everything related to the investigation from this point forward. Note when you received the target letter, how it was delivered, and any subsequent contact from federal authorities. Save all related emails, voicemails, and correspondence.
• Stop All Related Activities: If the investigation concerns your business practices, financial activities, or professional conduct, consult with your attorney about what activities you should cease or modify immediately.
• Avoid Social Media: Do not post anything about your case on social media platforms. In fact, consider temporarily deactivating your accounts after consulting with your attorney. Federal investigators often monitor social media for evidence.
• Gather Initial Information: Work with your attorney to compile a preliminary timeline of events, list of potential witnesses, and any documentation that might be relevant to your defense. This helps your legal team start building your defense strategy immediately.

Remember: A target letter means prosecutors believe they have substantial evidence against you. Every action you take from the moment you receive the letter can either strengthen or weaken your defense. Working with experienced legal counsel isn't just helpful - it's crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

The prosecution's case didn't develop overnight, and neither will your defense. Give your legal team the time and information they need to properly evaluate your situation and develop an effective strategy. Your attorney can help you understand the specific charges you might be facing and guide you through each step of the federal criminal case process.

How a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help After You Receive a Target Letter

As your federal criminal defense team at Candice Fields Law PC, we take immediate, strategic action when you receive a target letter. Here's how we protect your rights and interests:

• Immediate Intervention: We contact federal prosecutors right away to establish dialogue and begin understanding the scope of the investigation against you.
• Case Assessment: We conduct a thorough review of your situation to identify potential charges, analyze available evidence, and develop an initial defense strategy.
• Strategic Communication: We handle all communication with federal authorities on your behalf, ensuring you don't inadvertently make statements that could harm your case.
• Evidence Preservation: We help you properly preserve and document all potentially relevant evidence while ensuring you don't take actions that could be seen as obstruction.
• Pre-Indictment Negotiation: When appropriate, we engage with prosecutors to present exculpatory evidence or negotiate alternatives to criminal charges before an indictment is filed.
• Rights Protection: We safeguard your constitutional rights throughout the investigation, ensuring federal agents and prosecutors follow proper procedures.
• Grand Jury Strategy: We advise you on grand jury proceedings and help determine whether testifying would help or harm your case.
• Future Planning: We help you understand potential outcomes and develop contingency plans for various scenarios, including your professional and personal obligations.

At Candice Fields Law PC, we understand that receiving a target letter is overwhelming. Our experienced team has successfully guided many clients through federal investigations, often resolving cases before charges are filed. Contact us immediately if you've received a target letter - the sooner we begin working on your behalf, the more options we have to protect your future.

Protect Your Rights and Future - Contact Us Today

If you've received a target letter, time is of the essence. At Candice Fields Law PC, we provide the experienced federal criminal defense representation you need during this critical time. Contact our office immediately for a confidential consultation.

Federal Target Letter FAQs

Does receiving a target letter mean I will definitely be charged with a crime?

No, receiving a target letter does not guarantee criminal charges will be filed. While it indicates prosecutors have substantial evidence, skilled legal representation at this stage can sometimes prevent charges from being filed.

Should I respond directly to the prosecutor who sent the target letter?

Never communicate directly with prosecutors after receiving a target letter. All communications should be handled through your defense attorney to protect your rights and interests.

How long do I have to respond to a target letter?

While target letters may specify a timeframe for response, you should contact a federal defense attorney immediately - ideally within 24 hours of receipt - to ensure proper handling of any deadlines.

Will my employer find out about the target letter?

Target letters are generally confidential, but certain professional obligations or security clearances may require disclosure. Your attorney can help you understand any disclosure requirements specific to your situation.

Can I travel after receiving a target letter?

While you're not typically restricted from traveling, it's crucial to consult with your attorney before making any travel plans, especially international travel, as it could complicate your case.

What happens if I ignore a target letter?

Ignoring a target letter will not make the investigation disappear and could significantly harm your defense. Prosecutors may view non-response as a sign of non-cooperation, potentially leading to more aggressive prosecution.

Can I continue my normal business operations during the investigation?

Consult with your attorney before continuing any business activities related to the investigation. Some activities may need to be modified or suspended to avoid additional legal exposure.

What if the target letter involves my professional license?

Professional license implications require special attention. Your defense strategy must consider both criminal defense and professional license protection to safeguard your career.