Here’s what you need to know and do if the FBI reaches out regarding alleged fraud or financial crimes.
Stay Calm and Don’t Speak Immediately
The first instinct is often to explain yourself or provide documents right away. Resist it. Anything you say, whether you do it in person, over the phone, or in writing, can be used against you later.
Federal investigations are serious. Anything you say, no matter when or to whom, can come back to haunt you. It’s better to remain calm and politely decline to answer questions until you have legal representation.
Ask for Identification and Clarify the Purpose
If agents visit in person, you can ask for identification and a business card. You can also ask them what it is they’re speaking to you about.
Your interactions should be professional and courteous. Do everything you can to avoid confrontation. A simple response that you’re aware they’d like to speak with you, but you’d prefer to wait until your attorney is present should be fine.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Immediately
One of the most important steps is to get legal counsel right away. Fraud and financial crime investigations can be complex, involving multiple agencies and layers of documentation.
An attorney can:
- Advise you on your responses
- Handle communication on your behalf
- Review documents
- Protect your rights and professional licenses
Early involvement of counsel prevents mistakes that could have long-term consequences.
Do Not Destroy or Alter Documents
It may seem tempting to delete emails, remove files, or alter records if you’re concerned about an investigation. Do not do this.
Altering or destroying documents can be considered obstruction of justice and can lead to criminal charges separate from the initial investigation. Your attorney can help you determine how to produce documents safely and legally. It’s possible to cooperate without putting your rights at risk, but doing so usually requires legal guidance.
Limit Internal Conversations
Avoid discussing the investigation with colleagues, supervisors, or others in your professional network. Even casual comments can be reported or misunderstood.
If you need to communicate internally, consider doing so through your attorney. This approach maintains confidentiality and ensures that your statements are controlled and legally safe.
Keep Detailed Notes for Your Attorney
Document your interactions with investigators, including:
- Dates and times of contact
- Names and badge numbers of agents
- Questions asked and statements made
- Any documents requested
Keep this information private. Share it with your attorney, but it shouldn’t go beyond the two of you.
What to Do if You Receive a Subpoena or Summons
If you receive formal documentation requesting records or testimony, respond promptly with your attorney’s guidance. Ignoring subpoenas can lead to contempt of court or additional charges.
Your attorney can negotiate deadlines, clarify scope, and ensure that any production of documents or testimony complies with the law while protecting your rights.
Should You Contact an Attorney?
If you’ve been contacted by the FBI, speaking to an attorney immediately is advised. You should have representation before you say anything to law enforcement.
Being contacted by the FBI about alleged fraud or financial crimes is serious.
You do not need to face federal investigators alone. With careful, strategic action, it is possible to protect both your legal standing and your career.
If you are contacted by the FBI, consult an attorney with experience in federal financial investigations before making any statements or producing any documents. Call the Juba Law Office to schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.
