The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is the country’s largest and most well-known federal investigative agency. FBI agents ensure compliance with federal law and investigate potential criminal activity. The IRS Special Agents, similarly, ensure compliance with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) laws and have full authority to execute search warrants and conduct undercover operations. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) also, has Special Agents who enforce federal drug laws in the same way.

Federal investigations often begin with a tip from an informant or when investigators learn about potential criminal activity from a variety of sources, such as undercover operations.

Regardless of how a federal case begins, agents are focused on one goal: gathering information to support a criminal conviction. A common tool in their investigative process is the FBI, DEA or IRS interrogation - an attempt to obtain statements or admissions that can be used in court. In addition, these agents try to give the impression that by cooperating early, and right then, you will gain favorable treatment. The DEA agents go one step farther, that is to get doctors, physician’s assistants or nurse practitioners to voluntarily surrender their DEA license. The results can be devastating to your rights and your ability to defend yourself.

If FBI agents come knocking, you must understand your rights and take immediate steps to protect yourself.

What To Do When Government Agents Are at Your Door

Having federal law enforcement agents show up at your door can be a terrifying experience. You may feel threatened and powerless. But remember, you are innocent until proven guilty, and you have the right to remain silent and request an attorney.

If FBI agents arrive unannounced:

• Step outside and close your door. Never invite them inside unless they have a valid warrant.
• You are not required to answer their questions.
• If they say they have a warrant, ask to see it to ensure it is accurate.
• Tell them you do not consent to a search (but do not do anything to interfere with the search)
• If law enforcement agents approach you on the street, do not approach them or go anywhere with them (unless they arrest you).
• If law enforcement is following you, do not return home or to work.
• If law enforcement agents speak with you, you have the right to tell them:
  • I do not consent to a search.
  • I am exercising my right to remain silent.
  • I want to speak to an attorney.

Never Speak to the FBI, DEA or IRS Without a Lawyer

One of the most critical steps you can take to protect yourself during an FBI, DEA or IRS interrogation is to remain silent and request legal counsel immediately. These interrogation rights are bedrock principles of American jurisprudence. They are enshrined in the Fifth and Sixth Amendments to the Constitution and apply during all phases of the criminal investigative process, not just when a person has been arrested. Anytime you are approached by law enforcement for questioning, fight the urge to “cooperate” believing that it will help you. Instead, calmly and politely assert your right to remain silent and ask for legal counsel.

Lying During a DEA, IRS or FBI Interrogation Is a Crime

It is a federal offense to lie to the FBI, DEA, IRS or any federal agent. Conversations with federal law enforcement agents are subject to 18 USC §1001, which says that anyone who “knowingly and willfully…makes any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representation [to an FBI agent]… shall be fined [or] imprisoned not more than 5 years.”

By contrast, the law does not prevent federal agents from lying to you. In fact, federal agents are trained to build rapport, manipulate conversation flow, and mislead individuals to elicit incriminating information. That’s why remaining silent and consulting with a criminal defense attorney is so critical during any FBI interrogation.

How a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

Federal criminal charges are serious, and a conviction could mean massive financial penalties and significant time in jail. A criminal defense attorney knows the law and can protect you during a federal investigation and questioning by the FBI. A skilled defense attorney will:

• Safeguard your interrogation rights
• Prevent you from making incriminating statements
• Ensure federal agents follow proper procedures
• Push back against coercive or deceptive tactics
• Help negotiate favorable outcomes, such as reduced charges or immunity (in limited situations), in exchange for your cooperation.

Whether you’re a target, witness, or completely uninvolved, your rights during an FBI interrogation matter. An experienced lawyer ensures those rights are respected.

Contact the Law Office of Hope Lefeber

Hope Lefeber is an experienced and sought-after federal criminal attorney who serves people in Philadelphia and New York. She began her career as an Enforcement Attorney with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Today, she uses that experience to defend people who are under investigation or have been charged with crimes in federal court.

To put her experience to work for you, contact the Law Office of Hope Lefeber today.