West Palm Beach Federal Investigation Lawyer

Trusted West Palm Beach Federal Investigation Attorney

Being contacted by federal agents or investigators can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know whether charges are going to be eventually filed against you. A West Palm Beach federal investigation lawyer can explain the investigation process and your rights. Most federal investigations take place before any arrests are made. Therefore, many individuals are unaware that they are being investigated until they are formally charged.

The Kirlew Law Firm Way

The Kirlew Law Firm represents defendants in federal criminal investigations and prosecutions all over Florida. Our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases, and we defend clients in serious federal matters. With extensive courtroom experience and a deep understanding of the federal criminal justice system in the Southern District of Florida, our clients receive exceptional representation from a seasoned criminal defense lawyer.

Understanding Federal Investigations

Federal investigations are conducted differently from state criminal investigations. Many federal agencies investigate individuals for months or even years before prosecutors decide whether to file criminal charges. 

In Fiscal Year 2024, the United States Sentencing Commission reported 2,773 federal cases in Florida. Of these, 28.7% were for drug-related crimes, and 20.2% were for immigration. 

In federal cases, law enforcement often conducts an extensive investigation before making arrests or filing charges. Federal agents may:

• Review financial records.
• Conduct interviews.
• Examine emails.
• Obtain search warrants.
• Share information with a federal grand jury. 

Investigators usually examine these actions to determine whether evidence exists to prove that someone broke federal law.

Signs You May Be Under Investigation

Federal agents rarely notify an individual that they are under suspicion when they first begin an investigation. Certain events, however, may signal that the federal government is investigating your conduct. Some of these signs include the following:

• You were supinated.
• You were contacted by federal agents.
• Friends and family have been interviewed by federal authorities.
• You received a target letter.
• A search warrant was conducted on your property.

Recognizing the signs you may be under investigation early on can give you and your legal team more time to prepare. In some situations, individuals learn about a federal investigation because a bank, employer, or business partner receives a request for records from the federal government. If you find out early that federal authorities are investigating you, be mindful that your words and actions could potentially be used as evidence.

Types of Federal Investigation Cases

Federal prosecutors and law enforcement agencies investigate all types of criminal offenses. Although every investigation is unique, certain types are more commonly seen in federal court. Some of these include:

• Drug trafficking
• Financial crimes, such as fraud 
• Gun crimes
• Cyber crimes
• Identity theft
• Conspiracy

Federal prosecutors often file charges in cases where the conduct crossed state lines, involved federal agencies, or negatively impacted interstate commerce. They may also bring charges if someone violated certain federal investigation laws. Having a skilled federal criminal defense lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds.

Federal Investigation Statutes

Federal investigations are governed by statutes, procedural laws, and the United States Constitution. One of the most common federal statutes used by prosecutors in an investigation is Title 18 U.S.C. § 1001. This federal criminal statute prohibits individuals from knowingly making false statements in a matter involving the federal government.

Federal prosecutors also frequently use 18 U.S.C. § 371. This statute prohibits conspiring to commit any offense against the United States. Federal prosecutors typically bring conspiracy charges when they believe that more than one person was involved in conduct that violated federal law.

Most federal criminal matters in West Palm Beach are prosecuted in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. This courthouse is the Paul G. Rogers Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse, located at 701 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

Hire a Federal Investigation Lawyer

Many people decide to hire a West Palm Beach federal investigation attorney after they have been arrested or indicted. However, it can be beneficial to hire a federal investigation lawyer before charges have been filed.

During a federal investigation, an attorney may: 

• Review subpoenas.
• Analyze search warrants.
• Provide advice regarding interviews by government investigators.
• Assess your legal exposure.
• Speak with government prosecutors on your behalf. 
• Explain your rights and responsibilities to you.
• Help you avoid making decisions that could inadvertently harm your situation.

Knowing how to make the most of working with a federal defense attorney can help you feel more in control during a difficult time.

FAQs

What Triggers a Federal Investigation?

A federal investigation can be triggered by several actions, including:

• Witness tips
• Whistleblower complaints
• Suspicious activity reports
• Audits
• State agency referrals
• Information gathered during another investigation

Agencies can also open investigations after independently reviewing important documents. Different offenses and agencies may be triggered by different actions, and you may not know about an investigation while it is taking place.

Is It Legal to Interfere With a Federal Investigation?

No, it is illegal to interfere with a federal investigation. For example, destroying evidence, lying to investigators, threatening witnesses, tampering with documents, and other actions could constitute federal crimes of obstruction. Even if you are never charged with the underlying crime that the investigation concerns, you could still face civil and criminal penalties if prosecutors believe that you took steps to obstruct investigators.

How Long Do Federal Investigations Usually Take?

Some federal investigations can take months, while others can take years. The amount of time it takes depends on the specific circumstances of the case, including the amount of evidence and how many witnesses are involved. Also, the number of agencies involved can affect the timeline. Investigations involving financial crime, fraud, and conspiracy can take years because they typically require investigators to go over thousands of documents.

How Likely Is Someone to Succeed in a Federal Case?

The likelihood of succeeding in a federal case depends on the circumstances surrounding it. Some federal cases end in dismissal, favorable plea deals, or acquittals. Others end in a conviction. Federal prosecutors generally investigate crimes for months or years before they actually file charges. A lawyer can inform you of your likelihood of success in your case. 

The Kirlew Law Firm Can Help

If you have been accused of a federal crime, The Kirlew Law Firm can look into the facts of your case and build a defense in your favor. Contact us today to begin advocating for your future.