Few things are more intimidating than opening your mail and finding a letter from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Known as a federal target letter, this notice means that the federal government believes you may have committed a crime and that you are the subject, or “target,” of a criminal investigation.
For most people, this is a moment of shock and confusion. You may be unsure of what the letter means, whether you’re being charged, or what will happen next. One thing is certain: a target letter should never be ignored. How you respond (and who you contact first) can have a lasting impact on your freedom, reputation, and financial security.
At Guzman Law Firm, we’ve represented individuals across Texas who’ve found themselves under the scrutiny of federal investigators. We know the tactics federal prosecutors use, and we know how to build an aggressive defense that protects your rights from day one. If you’ve received a target letter, do not wait.
Contact our office immediately at (956) 516-7198 to speak with a federal criminal defense attorney who can help you take control of the situation before it escalates.
What is a federal target letter?
A federal target letter is a formal notification from the U.S. Department of Justice informing you that you are the target of a federal grand jury investigation. In plain language, it means prosecutors have substantial evidence linking you to a suspected federal crime and that you could soon face indictment.
These letters are typically sent when federal authorities such as the FBI, IRS, DEA, or another federal agency have already gathered evidence through surveillance, subpoenas, witness interviews, or cooperating witnesses. By sending a target letter, the government gives you a chance to voluntarily speak with investigators or appear before a grand jury before formal charges are filed.
While this may sound like an opportunity to explain your side, it’s also a high-risk moment. Anything you say to investigators without legal counsel can and will be used against you later. That’s why the first and most important step after receiving a target letter is to consult a qualified federal defense attorney — before you contact anyone else.
What does the FBI target letter look like?
Federal target letters are usually professional and direct. They often include the U.S. Department of Justice or FBI letterhead and are addressed to you personally. Typical language may include:
“This letter is to inform you that you are a target of a federal grand jury investigation being conducted in the [District].”
“A target is a person as to whom the prosecutor or grand jury has substantial evidence linking him or her to the commission of a crime.”
“You have the right to refuse to answer questions under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.”
“You are encouraged to have an attorney contact us to discuss this matter.”
While the tone may appear somewhat formal or even polite, make no mistake: this is a serious warning. The letter may also reference the specific laws or statutes under investigation (like mail fraud, wire fraud, or conspiracy charges) and may provide instructions for appearing before a grand jury or contacting a federal prosecutor.
How is a target letter delivered?
Target letters are usually delivered by certified mail or in person by federal agents. In some cases, agents may hand-deliver the letter during an interview request or visit to your home or business. This delivery is intentional: it signals that the investigation is active and that the government wants to make sure you are aware of your status.
If federal law enforcement delivers the letter in person, do not discuss your case with them. You are not obligated to answer any questions, and you should politely decline to comment until you have spoken with your attorney.
How serious is a target letter?
Receiving a federal target letter does not mean you’ve been charged yet — but it’s as close as it gets. The federal government does not send target letters casually. It means prosecutors have enough evidence to consider indicting you and may be preparing to present your case to a grand jury.
In other words, the government already believes it can prove a crime occurred and that you played a role in it. A target letter is both a warning and a strategic move that allows prosecutors to gauge your reaction, potentially gather more information, and encourage cooperation from you before they proceed to indictment.
Target letter vs. indictment
It’s important to understand the distinction between a target letter and an indictment:
- Federal target letter: This is an early notification that you are under investigation. It’s an opportunity for you (through your attorney) to engage with prosecutors, potentially present mitigating evidence, or negotiate cooperation before formal charges are filed.
- Indictment: This is a formal charge authorized by a grand jury, stating there is probable cause that you committed a federal crime. Once indicted, you will likely face arrest, arraignment, and a public criminal proceeding.
The period between receiving a target letter and being indicted is your best chance to influence the outcome. A skilled federal defense attorney can sometimes convince prosecutors not to file charges or negotiate reduced allegations before your case goes before the grand jury.
What happens after a target letter arrives?
After receiving a target letter, it’s critical to act quickly, but not impulsively. Here’s what to do:
1. Do NOT contact investigators on your own.
It might be tempting to “clear things up” or explain your side of the story. Don’t. Anything you say to federal agents, even casually, can be used to build a case against you. Federal investigators are trained to elicit information, and even innocent statements can be twisted or taken out of context.
2. Contact a federal defense attorney IMMEDIATELY.
This is your most important step. A lawyer experienced in federal criminal defense can:
- Review the target letter and any related communications
- Contact the prosecutor on your behalf
- Determine whether you are a target, subject, or witness (each status carries different implications)
- Begin preparing a strategic defense plan to protect your rights and reputation
Early intervention by an attorney can make a substantial difference. In some cases, your lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to avoid charges altogether or limit your exposure before the grand jury acts.
3. Preserve ALL documents and communications.
Keep any records, emails, or materials related to the subject of the investigation. Do not destroy or alter anything — doing so could lead to obstruction of justice charges. Your attorney will need these materials to assess the facts and build your defense.
4. Avoid discussing the case with ANYONE else.
This includes coworkers, friends, or family members. Even well-meaning conversations can inadvertently harm your case if overheard, misinterpreted, or shared.
5. PREPARE for the potential outcomes.
After reviewing your case, your attorney may pursue one of several paths:
- Seeking clarification about your role in the investigation
- Negotiating immunity or cooperation if appropriate
- Submitting evidence or testimony to mitigate potential charges
- Preparing for indictment and trial, if prosecutors decide to proceed
Federal investigations move at their own pace, sometimes over months or even years. Having a defense attorney engaged early ensures that every step — from correspondence to court filings — is handled strategically and professionally.
Federal law enforcement at your door? Call Guzman Law Firm for defense.
A federal target letter can change your life overnight, but you don’t have to face it alone. The moment you receive one, every decision matters. Speaking to investigators, ignoring deadlines, or trying to handle the matter yourself can turn a difficult situation into a devastating one.
At Guzman Law Firm, we know how federal investigations work because we’ve defended clients in some of the most complex cases prosecuted in Texas. Whether your case involves white-collar crime, conspiracy, fraud, or other federal offenses, our goal is the same: to protect your rights, minimize your exposure, and fight tirelessly for your future.
If you’ve received a federal target letter or are under investigation by the FBI, DEA, or DOJ, call Guzman Law Firm today at (956) 516-7198. Our team will step in immediately to shield you from government overreach and work toward the best possible resolution.
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