The idea of a federal criminal prosecution is terrifying. Significantly, reputations can be destroyed, livelihoods can be lost, and assets can be depleted. And above all, prison can be a real possibility. If you have reason to be concerned, don’t take chances. Contact one of our federal criminal defense lawyers right away. Although we are located in Raleigh, we represent clients accused of federal crimes everywhere in North Carolina.
Blue LLP’s white collar criminal defense lawyers are experienced, tested, and have represented clients at every stage of the process. As a matter of fact, we have represented clients during the investigation and target letter phase, at indictment, through trial, and on appeal.
All in all, we have a wealth of experience and a proven track record to show for it. Our federal criminal defense lawyers work tirelessly on each and every case to achieve the best outcome possible.
As criminal defense attorneys, we have represented clients in white collar prosecutions, investigations, and regulatory enforcement actions brought by the U.S. Department of Justice, the North Carolina (and other states’) Attorney General, the Federal Trade Commission, and multiple state regulators. As a result, our federal criminal defense lawyers in Raleigh have the experience to handle complex prosecutions that involve several defendants and claims.
Our approach, as criminal defense lawyers, is to prepare every case as though it were going to trial. To that end, we critically examine the government’s evidence so that we can advise our clients to make decisions that are in their best interest.
We understand the fears that any person facing a federal white collar investigation may face. The most immediate is always what the outcome could might be. If convicted, prison, fines, and asset forfeiture are just some of the potential consequences. As a result, in every single case, we work diligently to help our clients fully understand the Federal Sentencing Guidelines and how they might impact the decision-making process.
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Someone can easily be in the midst of a white collar federal criminal investigation and not be aware of it. The substantial increase in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud investigations and prosecutions is a perfect example.
Anyone from corporate counsel to investigators may try to learn whether an individual is willing to share information that incriminates that person, the company, or someone else. For these reasons, anyone approached by an investigator or corporate counsel should, at the very minimum, consult an experienced criminal defense attorney who has experience with white collar cases and federal crimes.
Conversations with corporate counsel have to be handled delicately. Although the company’s in-house lawyer might seem like just another co-worker, his or her client is the company itself and not the employee. This means that the company can waive the attorney-client privilege and divulge anything the employee says to the attorney. Therefore, prudent executives and employees should consult with their own white collar criminal defense attorney to advise them on whether and how to communicate with the company’s lawyer.
Likewise, anyone should exercise extreme caution if approached by an investigator. Suspects in criminal investigations are not under any legal obligation to talk to law enforcement. Moreover, lying to law enforcement is a criminal offense that is frequently prosecuted. As the saying goes, it’s not the crime, it’s the coverup.
If you need an experienced and skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact one of our federal criminal defense lawyers in Raleigh today.
Criminal Complaint. One way is for a law enforcement agent to file a criminal complaint. A criminal complaint is a sworn statement by a law enforcement officer that accuses a suspect of breaking a federal law. The sworn statement is presented to a federal judge who, upon making a preliminary finding of probable cause, issues a warrant for the suspect’s arrest. If the suspect has not done so already, he or she should hire a criminal defense lawyer who has federal experience.
Indictment. Another way to begin a federal criminal case involves the return of an indictment by a grand jury. The grand jury meets in secret and reviews evidence. If it determines that there is probable cause that a federal crime has occurred and the accused person committed it, it will return an indictment.
Information. A third way involves the negotiation of a plea agreement before a criminal complaint is sworn or indictment is returned. In these instances, a defendant usually hires (or is appointed) counsel after receiving a target letter, agrees to the allegations contained within a charging document called an information, and enters a guilty plea at an arraignment.
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