Pre-Indictment, Grand Jury & Law Enforcement Investigation Lawyer
It’s many people’s nightmare scenario. You’ve worked your whole life … and now this. Make no mistake about it, hearing a knock on the door from a federal agent or receiving a subpoena to appear before a grand jury is a major moment in any federal investigation. If that happens you should consult a Board Certified Criminal Trial lawyer right away. A delay could jeopardize your rights or defense strategy. Now is not the time to muck it up.
Whether you’re called as a witness or a potential defendant, it’s essential to realize that anything you say or do can have lasting consequences. You could even end up helping prosecute yourself if you go at it alone. pre-indictment, grand jury & law enforcement investigation lawyers at The Matassini Law Firm are ready to defend you in State and Federal courts across Florida.
Has an investigator knocked on your door, shown up at your employment, or issued you a subpoena?
Be polite, invoke your right to remain silent, and tell them you’re getting a lawyer.
If you’re facing imminent investigation, or are even just involved as a witness, you must retain an attorney today to protect your rights. Don’t be crazy and represent yourself.
You have too much exposure in a felony investigation and your freedom must be defended proactively by taking immediate steps to manage things the right way from day one. Don’t let Bozo the clown corner store lawyer ham-up your defense with shoddy defense work in the days and weeks after initial law enforcement contact. Trust a pro.
Nicholas G. Matassini is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by the Florida Bar and has over 20 years of experience litigating cases and securing dismissal in State and Federal courts.
Is your lawyer Board Certified?
Board certification recognizes attorneys’ special knowledge, skills, and proficiency in various areas of law and professionalism and ethics in practice. Established in 1982 by the Florida Supreme Court, board certification helps consumers identify specialists in various areas of law. It’s the gold standard for identifying qualified legal counsel in Florida.
How does a Grand Jury Work?
When the federal government aims to prosecute an individual under the United States Code, it must present its case and evidence to a grand jury. Grand juries operate in secret and their proceedings are not open to the public like a regular courtroom.
The grand jury’s task is to determine if there’s enough evidence to establish probable cause that a crime was committed. However, it has often been said that a grand jury can indict a ham sandwich. Why? There is no defense lawyer present at a grand jury hearing and law enforcement witnesses are given softball questions to present their case. There’s just not much scrutiny of the allegations beyond what a detective says is the truth on the stand.
The process is a bit different in State court for the filing of formal charges unless you’re charged with murder. In Florida state courts, each jurisdiction has a local State Attorney, which has essentially its own prosecution law firm, much like a local U.S. Attorney’s Office. The State Attorney delegates criminal filing decisions to rank and file prosecutors. It’s imperative to reach these local assistant state attorneys right away to ensure any evidence beneficial to the defense is presented before a filing decision is made.
What is a Pre-Indictment Investigation?
A pre-indictment investigation is a crucial phase in a criminal case. It occurs before formal charges, or indictments are filed. During this stage, law enforcement agencies, often in collaboration with prosecutors, gather evidence to determine if there is sufficient basis to file charges against an individual or entity.
On the Defense side – it’s a critical opportunity to build our own narrative of events, explore legal defenses, and secure key evidence that helps lead towards exoneration.
The Grand Jury Process
In many cases, pre-indictment investigations involve presenting evidence to a grand jury. A grand jury is a group of citizens tasked with reviewing evidence and determining whether there is probable cause to issue an indictment.
Unlike a trial by jury in an open court, grand jury proceedings are typically conducted in secret behind closed doors. A defense attorney or an attorney for a witness does not have access to the grand jury testimony or deliberations. This means that you may not be aware of the investigation or the grand jury’s decision until after charges are filed.
Be Proactive During Pre-Indictment Investigations
Pre-indictment investigations can make a significant difference in minimizing exposure to prosecution and its associated penalties. Hence, retaining a Board Certified defense attorney is the most prudent course of action one can take.
While the grand jury assesses the case, the defense attorney can interview witnesses, scrutinize documents and potential evidence, and identify weaknesses in the government’s case. In short, the Defense lawyer is actively trying to build your own side of the story.
During this process, the client is also shielded from unwarranted contact with law enforcement, government agencies, or the media. The attorney manages these interactions, always prioritizing the client’s best interests. If formal charges are eventually filed, the attorney can arrange for bail, ensure discreet arrest and booking procedures, and waive formal arraignment, sparing the client from unnecessary court appearances.
Why You Need Legal Representation
During a pre-indictment investigation or grand jury proceeding, you have the constitutional right to legal counsel. Use one! Having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is essential for several reasons:
- Protection of Your Rights: Your attorney will ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the investigation. This includes the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination.
- Guidance Through the Process: Navigating a pre-indictment investigation or grand jury proceeding can be complex and confusing. Your attorney will provide you with invaluable guidance and advice, ensuring you understand the implications of your actions and statements.
- Building a Strong Defense: While the focus of these investigations is on gathering evidence for potential charges, your attorney will also begin building a defense strategy early on. This initiative-taking approach can be crucial in securing a favorable outcome if charges are filed.
What Can Happen?
Several outcomes are possible during a pre-indictment investigation or grand jury proceeding:
- No Indictment: If the grand jury determines that there is insufficient evidence, they may choose not to issue an indictment. In this case, the investigation ends, and you avoid formal charges.
- Indictment: If the grand jury believes there is probable cause, they will issue an indictment, leading to formal charges. At this point, your case will proceed to trial.
- Continuation of the Investigation: In some cases, the investigation may continue even after an indictment is issued. This could lead to additional defendants or changes in the charges against you.
Hire the Lawyer CEO’s, Politicians, and Industry Leaders Trust
There is nothing quite as scary as a determined investigator. Immediately protect yourself from overzealous prosecutions and haphazard investigations. Hire to win. Contact our experienced investigation lawyers right now for a free, confidential consultation with a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer. Your freedom depends on it.
