Federal prosecutors often send out what they call a “target letter” or a pre-indictment letter.  In this letter the government tells the defendant that he or she is the target of a federal investigation.  Ultimately, the government invites the defendant to sit down with the prosecutor to discuss possible resolution of the matter.  Typically the government sends a target letter in a case where it thinks it has compelling evidence of guilt against the defendant.

Just because you received a target letter, do not give up hope.  Even if there is evidence of guilt for some offense, you are not in prison yet.   There may be room to negotiate the charge or charges, which may make a significant difference in any ultimate sentence.  There may be room to negotiate the timing of events in the case, which may greatly reduce the damage caused by a criminal prosecution.  Even if there is evidence of guilt, there may be compelling mitigating factors.  Equally, there is usually room to make your situation worse.  For example, you may sit down with the prosecutor to discuss the case and make a statement that is used against you later on.  That is a major reason why it is critical to have a lawyer before you have any contact with the government or law enforcement.

If you receive a target letter from a federal prosecutor,  contact federal criminal defense attorney Robert T. Ruth at 608-257-2540 for a free consultation.