Criminal Defense Lawyers

Clark County, Nevada Federal Target Letters

You Just Got a Federal Target Letter in Clark County – Here’s What to Do

What Exactly Is a Federal Target Letter?

A target letter comes from federal prosecutors . It means:

• You are the “target” of a criminal investigation
• Prosecutors believe they have substantial evidence linking you to a federal crime
• They are considering criminal charges and want to provide you an opportunity to respond

The letter will outline the key details:

• The federal statutes you allegedly violated
• Your constitutional rights (e.g. right to an attorney, right to remain silent)
• Often, an invitation to testify before a grand jury

The First Critical Step – Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

This is not the time for a general practice attorney or public defender . You need a private lawyer who specializes in federal criminal defense. At the Spodek Law Group, federal cases are our entire focus.

We have over 50 years of combined experience, including:

• Former federal prosecutors and law clerks on our team
• Extensive grand jury and trial experience
• Handling the full range of federal crimes

Our founder, Todd Spodek, is a second-generation attorney with a national reputation for success. He’s been featured in the NY Post, Newsweek, Fox 5 and more. When your freedom and future hang in the balance – you want the Spodek Law Group at your legal defense.

The Power of a Proactive Defense

Many lawyers will simply tell you to wait and see what happens after receiving a target letter. At Spodek Law Group, we believe this passive approach is a critical mistake .The federal government has thrown down the gauntlet. If you sit idle, you allow them to shape the narrative and build momentum toward an indictment. Instead, we move decisively to control the situation immediately. Our proactive defense strategy includes:

Making Immediate Contact with the Prosecutor

We reach out to the Assistant U.S. Attorney handling your case . Our goals:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Understand the full scope of the government’s evidence against you
• Identify potential misunderstandings or alternative explanations
• Assess whether you qualify for immunity, pretrial diversion or other programs
• Argue against charges being filed in the first place

Conducting a Parallel Investigation

Our team thoroughly investigates the allegations on our own. We:

• Gather all evidence that could support your defense
• Interview potential witnesses
• Analyze documents, data, and any other relevant materials
• Develop a comprehensive case strategy to dismantle the prosecution’s theory

Using Strategic Communications

We control all communications with the government from this point forward . This prevents you from accidentally making a statement that could incriminate you. It also allows us to strategically leverage communications for your benefit – for example, by making proffers or pitches for pre-indictment resolution .

Preparing You Fully

If you are called to testify before a grand jury, you’ll be thoroughly prepped. We’ll ensure you understand the boundaries of what you can and cannot say. Our goal is to protect your rights while advancing your interests through truthful testimony.

Exploring All Options

Charges aren’t inevitable. Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to get the investigation closed via:

• Negotiating a non-prosecution agreement
• Arguing for selective/discretionary prosecution
• Demonstrating your conduct was technically lawful
• Raising issues with the government’s evidence or procedures

If charges are brought, we’ll fight to get them reduced or dismissed. And if the case proceeds to trial, you can be confident we’ll mount an aggressive defense. The bottom line? We leave no stones unturned in pursuit of the best possible outcome.

Common Federal Crimes in Target Letters

While any federal offense could potentially trigger a target letter, some crimes tend to come up more frequently:

The allegations may seem complex . But we have extensive experience across all areas of federal criminal law .Our deep familiarity with DOJ charging policies and procedures is a key advantage. We know how federal prosecutors build cases – and where the vulnerabilities lie .

Anatomy of a Target Letter

While target letters vary, they typically contain certain core elements:

Introductory Statement: Clearly identifying you as the “target” of the investigation.

Details of the Investigation: Outlining the suspected criminal conduct and relevant federal statutes.

Constitutional Warnings: Notification of rights like the right to remain silent and obtain counsel.

Opportunity to Respond: Often an invitation to have your attorney contact the prosecutor, testify before the grand jury, or provide a statement/proffer.

Evidence Admonition: Warning against destroying potential evidence, which could lead to obstruction charges.Our attorneys will carefully analyze every word of the letter . The phrasing and language provide clues about:

• The prosecution’s theory of the case
• What evidence they believe they have
• Their perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of their case

This informs our strategy for responding most effectively .

The Importance of Controlling the Narrative

In the court of public opinion, federal prosecutors want to paint you as a criminal from the start . Their target letter is Step 1 in this narrative. We counter this by seizing control of the narrative ourselves. Our aggressive defense posture demonstrates your innocence is being vigorously defended. This has a powerful impact – both legally and psychologically. It forces the government to wrestle with your constitutional rights. And it signals you will not go down without an all-out fight. Ultimately, controlling the narrative keeps all options on the table. It prevents the government from locking you into a predetermined storyline of guilt.

When to Testify Before the Grand Jury (and When to Decline)

Target letters often “invite” you to testify before the grand jury investigating your case . This raises a complex strategic decision: On one hand, grand jury testimony is a chance to publicly proclaim your innocence and sway grand jurors toward a “no bill” (no indictment). On the other hand, the rules heavily favor the prosecution. You could be forced to make statements that end up incriminating you at trial. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. We analyze factors like:

• The strength of the government’s case against you
• Whether your testimony could allow you to disqualify evidence
• The likelihood of being charged regardless of your testimony
• Your ability to effectively testify without risking self-incrimination

If testifying is the right move, we’ll thoroughly prepare you . If not, we’ll reject the invitation and continue pursuing other defensive avenues.

When Parallel Proceedings Occur

Federal investigations frequently overlap with:

• State criminal investigations
• Civil/regulatory proceedings
• Lawsuits from private parties

These parallel proceedings exponentially increase the complexity. Statements made in one case can impact your liability in others .Our attorneys are skilled at navigating this minefield. We’ll craft a cohesive legal strategy that protects your rights and interests across all forums .We’re also adept at leveraging proceedings against each other. For example, we may be able to get certain evidence or testimony excluded from your criminal case based on rulings in a civil proceeding .

How Long Does This Process Take?

From the moment that target letter arrives, the clock is ticking. But there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline for federal investigations .Some cases move rapidly – charges could come in weeks. Others unfold gradually over many months or years. We know how to exert tactical pressure to keep that clock from running out prematurely. And we’ll provide constant updates, so you’re never left wondering about the status .

What If I’m Ultimately Indicted?

Even after investing maximum effort, indictments can’t always be avoided . If charges are filed, we’ll immediately launch our trial preparation:

• Reviewing discovery materials
• Researching precedents and case law
• Deposing witnesses
• Identifying and preparing experts
• Crafting a comprehensive defense strategy
• Attacking every aspect of the government’s case

Why Clients Trust the Spodek Law Group

When it comes to federal charges, there’s no room for second-bests. You need attorneys with the experience, resources and drive to take on the federal government itself .At the Spodek Law Group, that’s exactly what you’ll get:

• Over 50 years of combined federal criminal defense experience
• Attorneys who previously worked as federal prosecutors
• A track record of hard-won dismissals, acquittals and reduced sentences
• A passion for defending clients’ rights and reputations at all costs
• Availability 24/7 to rapidly respond to any developments in your case
• Selective caseloads to provide truly personalized attention
• Flexible fees to ensure money isn’t a barrier to elite representation

When the federal government comes calling, you need to be prepared to fight back with overwhelming firepower . That’s what we provide .

Take the First Step – A Free, Confidential Consultation

If you received a federal target letter in Clark County, time is of the essence. Every day that passes could weaken your defense posture .Take the first step to protect yourself – schedule a free, fully confidential consultation with the Spodek Law Group. We’ll review your situation and lay out a comprehensive strategy for responding. This isn’t a theoretical exercise. This is about safeguarding your life, liberty and future .When so much is at stake, it’s crucial to make the right moves from Day 1. With our proven federal defense team on your side, you can feel confident you’re doing exactly that .The federal government has put you in their crosshairs. Now it’s time to fight back with the elite legal representation you deserve .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a federal target letter?

A federal target letter is an official notification from federal prosecutors that you are the target of a criminal investigation. It means the government believes it has substantial evidence linking you to the commission of a federal crime .

Does getting a target letter mean I’ll be indicted?

No, receiving a target letter does not guarantee you will be indicted. It simply means charges are being seriously considered . With an aggressive and proactive defense, it may be possible to avoid indictment entirely .

Should I testify before the grand jury if asked?

Whether to testify before the grand jury is a complex strategic decision that depends on factors like the strength of the government’s case and the likelihood of being charged regardless. An experienced federal defense lawyer can advise you on the best approach .

How long does a federal investigation take after a target letter?

There is no set timeline. Some investigations move rapidly toward indictment in weeks, while others may drag on for months or years. We’ll work to carefully manage the timeline and apply strategic pressure when needed .

What if I’m ultimately indicted despite my lawyer’s efforts?

If charges cannot be avoided, we’ll immediately initiate an aggressive trial preparation plan. We have extensive experience winning federal acquittals at trial for charges like fraud, racketeering, and more. The fight is never over until you’re exonerated .

Why should I hire the Spodek Law Group?

We are a premier federal criminal defense firm with over 50 years of combined experience. Our attorneys include former federal prosecutors and we have an outstanding track record of dismissals, acquittals and favorable resolutions for clients nationwide . When your liberty is at stake, you need to bring the biggest ammunition.