Mistakes made during a federal investigation could lead to charges

Becoming the subject of a federal investigation is a reason for anyone to worry. Even people who feel confident about their compliance with the law may begin to second-guess themselves. After all, federal statutes are very complex, and people sometimes break the law without intending to do so.

To some degree, that is exactly what federal investigators count on happening. Quite a few people who are subject to federal investigations end up facing criminal charges. However, the accusations against them may not necessarily relate to the nature of the investigation but rather their behavior during the investigation. The mistakes that someone makes when communicating with federal investigators could give the government a reason to prosecute them.

Even minor lies are grounds for charges

Bending the truth or denying personal involvement are common tactics for those accused of wrongdoing. Denying misconduct in a casual conversation isn’t necessarily reason for worry, but the same conduct during federal investigations could lead to criminal prosecution.

Federal investigators have a tendency to ask very precise and detailed questions. They only sit down to talk with suspects or potential witnesses after gathering quite a bit of evidence. At that point, investigators know exactly what they need to look for and what questions they need to ask.

People who lie about their involvement, misrepresent their behavior or claim they are unaware of facts they clearly know could put themselves at risk of criminal charges. Any lie to a federal investigator is potentially an adequate reason to charge someone with a federal offense.

Lying to investigators is often the only charge that the government can successfully bring after a lengthy investigation. People who panic and handle themselves poorly during conversations with law enforcement professionals might unwittingly create the very circumstances that lead to their prosecution.

Defendants can have assistance

A defense attorney familiar with federal regulations doesn’t just help someone in the courtroom. They can also potentially help keep someone out of federal court.

Individuals who have lawyers present with them during federal questioning can often avoid the mistakes that other people make. An attorney can help someone handle leading or manipulative questions in a way that diminishes the risk of prosecution in the future.

Federal criminal charges can be even more concerning than state charges because of mandatory minimum sentences and the risk of a federal criminal record. Understanding the mistakes that could impact someone’s chance of a defense could benefit those facing a federal criminal investigation.