What To Do First If You’re Involved in a Federal Investigation

Finding out that you’re involved in a federal investigation can be a frightening experience. Though you may have watched similar scenes take place in the movies, it can be nerve-racking knowing that you may be under investigation for a federal crime. The first thing you should do after discovering you’re part of an investigation is to contact an attorney.

If You’re Involved in a Federal Investigation

Oftentimes, anyone involved in a federal investigation may find out about their situation when they are approached by agents from a Federal agency. While they may ask to speak to you, it is your legal right to wait until you have a lawyer present. Since you don’t know what information they already have about you, it’s important that you avoid speaking with them until you have talked to a lawyer.

Though agents may play things close to the vest, the prosecution may have already selected you as a target in the investigation. For this reason, you want to make sure everything you say and do will work towards your best interest.

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You receive a call from a colleague telling you that FBI agents visited your workplace asking questions about a project you managed two years ago. No one has contacted you directly yet, but you're worried about what this means and whether you should start preparing.

Should I wait until I'm formally contacted by federal agents before hiring a lawyer, or should I act now?

Attorney's Answer

You should retain an experienced federal defense attorney immediately — do not wait for agents to contact you directly. Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel, and exercising those rights early can prevent you from making statements that prosecutors could later use against you. A skilled attorney can reach out to the investigating agency on your behalf, determine the scope of the investigation, and advise you on preserving relevant documents without inadvertently obstructing justice under 18 U.S.C. § 1519. Early legal intervention often makes the difference between being cleared, negotiating a favorable resolution, or facing formal charges.

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

If You’ve Already Spoken to Agents