What Is a Federal Target Letter?

Receiving a federal target letter can be a daunting experience, filled with doubt and worry. A target letter is a critical document that can change the trajectory of a person’s life. Simply put, a federal target letter signals that you are the focus of a grand jury investigation and will likely face federal criminal charges. Below is more on federal target letters.

What Is a Federal Target Letter?

A federal target letter is a formal correspondence issued by the federal government informing a person that they are the ‘target’ of a federal crime investigation. Usually, federal investigations begin with suspicious activities or crimes being reported. After a report is made, the F.B.I. or other federal law enforcement officials get involved, typically leading to a grand jury investigation. If the prosecutor and grand jury believe there is enough evidence linking you to a crime, they may identify you as a ‘target’ of the investigation. A division of the U.S. Department of Justice or the U.S. Attorney’s Office may send a target letter to inform you that you are the target of an investigation and may face criminal charges.

What Information Does a Target Letter Contain?

A target letter provides crucial information to the person who is the focus of the grand jury investigation. A target letter may contain, among others, the following elements;

• Nature of the investigation: This section will provide context about the grand jury investigation and the crime(s) under investigation.
• Status as a target: The letter will explicitly state that you are considered a ‘target’ of the investigation.
• Rights: The letter will inform you of your legal rights, including the right to an attorney and the right to avoid self-incrimination by choosing to remain silent.
• Invitation to testify and provide evidence: The letter may invite you to testify before the grand jury or produce evidence.

A target letter may also contain details about the evidence gathered and the role you are believed to have played in the alleged criminal activity. It is crucial that you take time to understand the contents of a target letter.

Is a Target Letter the Same as an Indictment?

A target letter is different from an indictment. While a target letter notifies you that you are being investigated for a crime, an indictment means that the grand jury has finished its investigation and found that there is sufficient evidence to support formal charges against you.

What To Do Take After Receiving a Target Letter

After receiving a target letter, the first thing to do is contact a criminal defense attorney. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. A skilled attorney can help you understand the information in the letter and the best course of action. An attorney can help protect your rights. Additionally, a qualified criminal defense attorney can prepare a defense strategy in case you are formally charged.

Legal Help Is Available

If you’ve received a federal target letter, our NYC grand jury investigations attorney, Mark I. Cohen, Esq., can assess your case, ensure you understand your rights, and guide you every step of the way.