Many people accused of breaking the law only seek out guidance after an arrest, arraignment or indictment. They may try to handle things on their own before they actually face charges or spend time in state custody. That approach can work in some cases for those facing unwarranted scrutiny from local police officers.
However, those subject to a federal investigation may need help before the situation reaches that point. Individuals under federal scrutiny for possible financial crimes or other misconduct can make mistakes during the investigation process. Those mistakes might put them at a massive disadvantage if they try to fight their charges.
In some cases, the subject of an investigation can make mistakes that directly lead to their prosecution later. The sooner someone seeks assistance when facing a federal investigation, the less likely they are to make a common mistake that leads to criminal allegations.
Communicating with investigators is a source of risk
Many people subject to a criminal investigation assume that they can exonerate themselves by cooperating. They think that if they speak with investigators and provide the right information, they can avoid criminal prosecution.
Unfortunately, federal investigators often rely on that false sense of confidence to trick people into making major mistakes. Under federal criminal statutes, lying to investigators is a prosecutable offense all on its own.
Statements that exaggerate the situation, misrepresent someone’s knowledge or contradict verifiable information can lead to an individual’s prosecution. There have been many high-profile scenarios in which federal investigators never find proof of the crime they initially investigated. Instead, they find irregularities and contradictions in an individual’s statements.
They can then prosecute that individual for lying to federal investigators. Those who learn about a pending federal investigation could benefit from retaining legal assistance as soon as possible.
An attorney can help educate the subject of an investigation about the risks they face. They can also be present for any attempt to cooperate with law enforcement. An attorney can help their client cooperate with a federal investigation without unnecessarily exposing themselves to additional prosecution risk.
Knowing the risks when facing federal criminal charges is of the utmost importance. Small mistakes during the investigation stage may make representation beneficial even before someone actually faces charges.