William G. Yarborough

What a target letter is and what to do if you receive one

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Certain letters received in the mail can be an indicator of major legal challenges to come. For example, some people receive letters during tax season indicating that they must undergo an audit due to discrepancies in their tax records.

There are other types of letters that may be less common but are even more concerning than tax-related missives received from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For example, occasionally, someone opens their mail to discover that they have received a target letter from the Justice Department or other state authorities.

What is a target letter, and how should someone respond after they receive one?

A target letter is a warning about an investigation

Often, the criminal investigation process begins without someone’s awareness. Police departments and even federal regulatory agencies may begin investigating quietly at first. They want to connect with witnesses and review evidence that someone might otherwise try to hide, alter or destroy. However, it may become necessary to communicate with the party subject to the investigation. A target letter is often a warning sign that someone’s arrest or indictment might incur in the near future.

The letter may include language advising someone that they have the option of speaking before the grand jury that could decide to bring charges against them. Target letters can sometimes arrive not long before federal search warrants. How should someone respond after receiving a target letter advising them of an ongoing investigation?

Those under investigation need support

Even when someone is absolutely certain of their own innocence, they still need to protect themselves legally. Not every investigation exonerates the person accused of criminal activity. Investigators hoping to prosecute may allow that desire to color how the state views and analyzes evidence. Therefore, those aware of a pending investigation often need legal guidance as soon as possible.

A criminal defense attorney can educate someone about their rights and clarify the law in regard to the charges that they face and the possible penalties the state might impose. An attorney can also assist someone during the execution of a search warrant or if they must meet with investigators to discuss the matter. Being proactive about protecting oneself when facing a criminal investigation could help someone achieve the best outcome possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

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