Federal prosecutors have many tools available to them. One such tool is a grand jury target letter. This is a letter that a federal prosecutor sends out to the target of an investigation. It tells the recipient of the letter that they are under investigation for having violated one or more federal crimes. If you or a loved one have received a federal grand jury target letter in Tulsa, Oklahoma here is what you need to know.
Federal Investigations and the Target Letter in Tulsa
A target is a person whom the prosecutor or grand jury believes has substantial evidence linking him or her to the commission of a crime and who may be regarded as a potential defendant.
Federal prosecutors sometimes investigate potential criminal actions for months or even years before they seek an indictment from a grand jury. This letter is a precursor to that grand jury hearing.
When a person receives a federal grand jury target letter, it is imperative that they contact a Tulsa federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Prosecutors do not send these letters out unless they believe there is a good chance that the target will receive a federal indictment in Tulsa.
What a Target Letter May Contain
A target letter is addressed to the person whom the investigation is targeting. It will put the target on notice regarding the types of criminal matters the grand jury is investigating. Also, it apprises the target that they may be required to both produce evidence and testify at the grand jury hearing.
Finally, it warns the recipient that they may not destroy any evidence within their possession, custody, or control. A target letter may also contain information regarding a target’s Fifth Amendment rights and advise the target to obtain counsel.
Getting and Using Legal Help
Getting legal help is especially important in the early stages of a federal investigation. Although a Tulsa federal criminal defense attorney cannot be present with their client when the client gives testimony or produces other evidence in the grand jury proceeding, an attorney can help prepare the client for the proceeding.
An attorney can also help negotiate an early plea deal or convince a federal prosecutor to stop the investigation when the case is weak. Any early intervention can be extremely valuable to a client, as federal prison sentences are often harsher than their state counterparts.
Free Consultation: Tulsa Federal Criminal Lawyers
Get the help you need. It’s time to retain a Tulsa criminal defense lawyer who is knowledgeable regarding federal law and procedure and who will look out for your legal interests. Contact a Tulsa criminal attorney at Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation.
A Tulsa defense attorney can advise you on how the process works and offer answers to your specific questions. To begin your free consultation, call 918-256-3400 now.