NEW JERSEY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

NJ White-Collar Criminal Investigations

WHAT TO DO WHEN FACING A WHITE COLLAR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION: A GUIDE FOR DEFENDANTS

Facing a white collar criminal investigation can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. However, understanding what the process entails and knowing the dos and don’ts can mitigate your anxiety and protect you from making mistakes that could jeopardize your legal rights.

In this article, we will discuss the various types of federal investigations in white collar criminal matters, what to do and what not to do during an investigation, tips for dealing with a white-collar criminal investigation, and the bottom line.

TYPES OF FEDERAL INVESTIGATIONS IN WHITE COLLAR CRIMINAL MATTERS

Several ways individuals may discover they are under investigation for white collar crime include:

1. Target Letter:
This letter comes from an Assistant United States Attorney informing you that you’re under investigation. While the letter may provide some information regarding the accused crimes, it’s to seek advice from a white collar criminal attorney immediately.

2. Subpoena Notice:
The federal grand jury asks for documents related to the alleged crime. If you receive this notification, it’s imperative to engage with an experienced federal white-collar criminal lawyer right away.

3. Search Warrant:
Federal agents may arrive at your doorstep holding a search warrant. It’s recommended that individuals comply with their demands during this inconvenient and stressful event.

4. Communication from Federal Agents:
Federal agents may attempt to speak with you regarding the matter. It’s to avoid interacting with them without a present white-collar criminal attorney.

5. Friends, Family, Community & Business Partners:
Perhaps the most embarrassing communication method is learning via word-of-mouth about being under investigation because the agency has contacted people associated with you before informing you directly or contacting your legal representative on record . It’s crucial not to discuss anything related to the accusations or charges with anyone as gossiping could worsen the situation.

WHAT NOT TO DO DURING A WHITE COLLAR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

Certain actions can jeopardize a white collar criminal investigation; thus, preventing them could safeguard your legal rights. These include:

1. Sharing Information:
Refrain from discussing any information concerning the case with anyone, even family or close friends. Sharing information may lead to subpoenas or obstruction of justice charges.

2. Destroying Documents:
Destroying hard copies or electronic files related to the case is ill-advised. These documents may exist already, and government agencies might expect to gather them during their investigation. Destroying these documents may result in obstruction of justice charges.

3. Lying to Federal Agents:
It’s crucial to be honest with federal investigators. Misleading or withholding the truth may reflect negatively against you, leading to adverse sentiments and a host of detrimental consequences, including fines and imprisonment.

CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED WHITE COLLAR CRIMINAL ATTORNEY

An experienced white-collar criminal attorney can review your case against the relevant laws and constitutional provisions before advising you on a strategy that will produce the outcome in your circumstance. Our law firm offers experience defending federal white-collar criminal cases, so if you need legal counsel or representation, please contact us today for assistance in protecting your legal rights.

###Table 1: How defendants should conduct themselves during an investigation.

Action
Pros
Cons

Do: Contact a white-collar criminal attorney
Gain immediate legal insight and advice from an expert in the field
May delay proceedings, and hiring an attorney could be costly

Do: Comply With a Search Warrant
Demonstrates cooperation with Legal Cognization process
Inconvenient and Emotionally taxing

Do: Be truthful when working with Federal Agents
Maintains personal credibility and academic honesty during proceedings
May face getting caught up as collateral damage or adversities being levied against them

Don’t: Disclose information regarding a case
Prevents impeding Justice or mitigates the discovery of unknown evidence
May instill mistrust and erode relationships

Don’t : Destroy files related to the charges
Avoids Obstruction of Court Proceedings
Mistrust can develop, which may worsen an already difficult situation

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH A WHITE COLLAR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

White-collar criminal investigations can cause stress, be distressing but handling the situation by seeking legal advice while avoiding misbehavior could mitigate outcomes. Below are actionable points that may assist individuals during white collar criminal investigations;
1. Be vigilant when security is imposed:
Individuals under investigation should observe their surroundings at all times and note any footprints left behind by federal authorities.

2. Remain Calm:
Decline from crying, fleeing, refusing to cooperate, as they may cause wrongful convictions or false allegations against you.

3. Hire an Expert Lawyer:
Contact a skilled lawyer with extensive experience in white-collar criminal cases promptly for legal advice and representation.

4: Don’t Destroy Evidence presented against you:
Leave the handling of evidence to authorized parties who are conversant with legalities surrounding presenting pertinent evidence and conducting investigations.

5: Don’t speak to Anyone About The Investigation Without Your Lawyer’s Advice
Suppose someone contacts you regarding anything Unproven or Incriminated about your case; avoid making comments without your attorney’s guidance because anything said could be used against you.

###Table 2: Tips for defendants facing white collar criminal investigations

Tips for Dealing with a White Collar Criminal Investigation

Be Vigilant When Security Is Imposed: Observe your environment.

Remain Calm: Stay Level-headed during proceedings

Hire An Expert Lawyer: Get robust Legal Guidance

Don’t Destroy Evidence Presented Against You Leave the handling of evidence to authorized parties

Don’t Speak To Anyone Without Your Lawyer’s Advice Avoid Sabotaging Your Own Case

THE BOTTOM LINE

White collar criminal investigations can be stressful and confusing experiences. Still, being aware of the investigation process’ intricacies and following agreed-upon procedures with a skilled legal attorney may mitigate negative outcomes. Remain vigilant about Security arrangements, stay composed and avoid any unauthorized behavior. Contact an expert in the field for collaborative insights that will help mitigate any complications associated with white-collar criminal charges.