New York Department of Investigation Lawyers

New York City is run by many officials at many government agencies. The many state and city workers do all sorts of vitally important tasks such as policing the subways and teaching children in the public schools. Companies may also have contracts with the city to provide all sorts of important services. When everyone pulls together, the net result is a more functional and enjoyable city for both residents and the city’s many visitors. Sometimes, however, something may go wrong. There may be evidence of fraud on the part of the employee or the company contractor. Sometimes, such accusations may not be accurate. The City of New York runs a hotline that makes it easy to level an accusation against a specific person or a contractor with the city. This hotline aims to make it as easy as possible to report any instance of suspected fraud. While this kind of report can be of use of in helping to reduce corruption, sometimes such reports may be made in error with information that is not quite complete. In any instance of such accusations, any company owner, employer or city worker will need to have the best possible defense to counter such accusations.

Effective Legal Assistance

Such allegations are extremely serious. Any hint of impropriety can quickly cause a problem and may lead to further actions. A person may face all kinds of problems such as disciplinary hearings and even firing. Companies that are under such investigation may also face problems including the loss of a license and possible fines. Companies may also be barred from doing business with the state in the future if any malfeasance is found. Even an allegation can carry the whiff of corruption. This is why it is important to make sure that any such accusations are fought from the second they are made. The first step is to find the best possible legal counsel. Keep in mind that the city and state will have lawyers that are dedicated to these cases. Such lawyers aim to find out if the specific allegations are true. They are also looking for evidence of any other possible corruption. It’s important to understand how such a process may unfold and why. Lawyers can demonstrate what laws may apply to the person or company. They can also demonstrate what kind of protections people have when they are under investigation by the state.

What Happens Next

After a call or a report is made, investigators will look into the matter further. They are entitled to have access to all sorts of data including highly detailed fiscal records. They are also entitled to speak with the workers of the company as part of their investigation. An individual who is facing such allegations may be placed on paid administrative leave until these issues are resolved. Companies may be forbidden from doing business until the investigation has finished. All people and company officials need to understand that the process of investigation may be done quickly and finished in a short period of time. However, the possibility remains that the investigation may also continue over a longer time frame. Everyone involved should be prepared to understand that they may be accused of certain instances of wrongdoing, but that does not mean that such allegations have been substantiated.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Todd Spodek

Lead Attorney & Founder

Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

NY Bar Admitted Multi-State Licensed Federal Courts

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You are a city employee at a municipal agency and have just been contacted by an investigator from the New York City Department of Investigation who wants to interview you about alleged irregularities in your department's procurement process. Your supervisor has told you not to worry, but the investigator mentioned that your name appeared in documents related to a vendor kickback scheme.

Do I have to cooperate with a DOI investigation, and should I speak with them without an attorney present?

Attorney's Answer

As a city employee, you are generally required to cooperate with DOI investigations under Executive Order 16 and the New York City Charter, Chapter 34, which grants DOI broad authority to investigate fraud, waste, and corruption in city government. However, while you must cooperate, you absolutely have the right to retain private counsel before answering any questions, especially if there is any indication you may be a target rather than a witness. Anything you say during a DOI interview can be referred to the Manhattan District Attorney or federal prosecutors if criminal conduct is suspected. An experienced attorney can help you understand whether you are entitled to Garrity protections — meaning statements compelled under threat of termination cannot be used against you in a criminal prosecution — and can ensure your rights are fully protected throughout the process.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

In Conclusion

The investigation may take some time to conclude. In the meantime, it is important to remember that an allegation is not factual evidence. Allegations do not mean that the person is guilty in the eyes of the law or the investigator. Legal counsel can help anyone make sure that they have proper representation at all times. The same is true of corporate matters. A good legal firm will develop a strategy that can help everyone involved cope with this issue as it unfolds. They may offer suggestions such as avoiding the press. They may also remind people to be careful about who they speak to during the process as some people may be asked for legal testimony about the things they have seen and heard when working for the company or with a colleague. Understanding what will happen is the best way to cope with such departmental investigations.