What is a Target Letter, and What Should You Do If You Receive One?

If you’ve received a target letter from federal investigators or prosecutors, it may feel difficult to decipher what this message means and what actions to take. While it’s understandable to feel concerned or anxious upon receiving a target letter, familiarizing yourself with its meaning, content, and context can increase your confidence and impact the outcome of your case. Evergreen Attorneys specialize in guiding individuals through these complex and critical moments.

What Is a Federal Target Letter?

• A target letter is a serious legal document sent by a federal prosecutor or the Department of Justice (DOJ) to signal that you are under investigation for a federal crime. Target letters are often issued after authorities have gathered substantial evidence suggesting that a crime has been committed. Prosecutors issue these letters in cases that involve serious federal offenses, such as white-collar crimes, financial crimes, federal program violations, and professional practice issues.
• While receiving a target letter does not automatically mean you will be charged with a crime, it is a strong signal that you are under scrutiny. These letters are part of the formal pre-indictment process, serving as notice of the government’s intent to proceed with an investigation or prosecution. In many cases, the letter may also include a request for the recipient to meet with federal investigators or to testify before a grand jury.

The Purpose of Target Letters

• The primary purpose of a target letter is to inform the recipient about the government’s investigation, allowing them to respond before formal criminal charges are filed. The letter may also include a request for the individual to provide information or testify, presenting an opportunity for the person to provide a defense or explain their actions.

 

• Target letters often aim to encourage cooperation in a federal case. Sometimes, prosecutors hope that notifying an individual of their status as a target will persuade them to cooperate with the investigation, either by providing information or agreeing to a plea deal. However, unreserved cooperation is not one-size-fits-all solution; legal cases are nuanced and should be met with an individualized legal plan.

Should I Be Worried if I Receive a Target Letter?

• Receiving a target letter should not automatically be taken as an indication of guilt. A target letter is simply a notification that you are under investigation for potential criminal conduct. However, these letters pose a serious matter and should be treated with caution. A target letter can precede the filing of formal criminal charges, which can have long-lasting personal, professional, and legal consequences.

 

• Given the important nature of this letter, the best course of action is not to ignore the letter, but rather, to take immediate steps to protect your rights. Federal criminal investigations can be complex and intimidating, and a target letter is an early warning sign that you could be facing serious charges. Acting swiftly and seeking professional legal counsel is critical.

 

• Target letters represent a unique opportunity to confront the issue head on. Many law firms try to scare their clients when a target letter comes in. At Evergreen Attorneys, we know that a target letter is the last best-chance our clients have to resolve a federal investigation without charges ever being filed. Target letters will often reveal key facts about the scope of an investigation, who is being scrutinized, and other key facts that the FBI, DEA, or other law enforcement will not directly reveal. Being an aggressive and creative Denver federal criminal attorney means viewing target letters as an opportunity to get a great resolution for clients. Target letters from the Denver U.S. Attorney’s Office and Colorado Springs U.S. Attorney’s office are just the right reason to call the experienced federal criminal lawyers at Evergreen Attorneys today.

What Should I Do If I Receive a Target Letter?

If you are the recipient of a federal target letter, these essential actions may help you proceed with a well-informed legal strategy:

1. Do Not Ignore the Letter

• • Because of the serious nature of a target letter, it is essential to respond promptly and strategically. A proactive approach will allow you to create a thoughtful legal strategy.

2. Consult with a Criminal Defense Attorney

• • An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the details of your case, explain your rights, and help you navigate your next steps. Our team at Evergreen Attorneys has proudly yields years of combined experience handing federal criminal investigations and target letters.
  • Remember, target letters are an opportunity for creative solutions with the right experienced federal criminal attorney by your side. Evergreen Attorneys can provide that unique prospective, helping craft a defense that minimizes risk and maximizes the potential for a favorable resolution.

3. Review Your Options

• • Receiving a target letter often means you have options for how to proceed. Your attorney will help you understand whether it is in your best interest to cooperate with investigators, assert your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, or fight the charges if they are filed.

What Happens After a Target Letter Is Sent?

• After receiving a target letter, several possible outcomes may occur. Federal prosecutors may decide to pursue an indictment and file formal charges, or they may decide to drop the investigation. In some cases, the recipient of the target letter may be able to resolve the matter through a plea agreement or negotiated settlement.

 

• In other situations, the government may offer the target an opportunity to cooperate with their investigation in exchange for leniency. Cooperation can include providing information about other individuals involved in criminal activity or agreeing to testify against co-defendants.

 

• Alternatively, Evergreen Attorneys have seen unique responses to target letters including financial settlements and other diversion or non-prosecution agreements in the right situations. To get to these outcomes, you need a Denver federal criminal defense lawyer with experience in your corner.

Conclusion

Receiving a target letter can be an unsettling and confusing experience. However, it is crucial to remember that the letter is not a conviction; it is simply a notification that you are under investigation. The most important thing you can do if you receive a target letter is to consult with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you navigate the complexities of a federal investigation. At Evergreen Attorneys, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation during this critical time. Our team of skilled federal criminal defense attorneys can offer you sound legal advice and creative strategies to resolve your case efficiently and effectively.