During the initial investigation of a federal criminal case, one of the branches of the federal government becomes involved. They are either tipped off by someone calling and giving them information or through their own hard work and diligence, they figure out a case and begin their investigation.
What Is The First Charging Document In A Federal Criminal Case?
If someone is going to be charged federally, they will be indicted by the federal government. That indictment will give them all the charges. They will be presented with that indictment at the time of their first court appearance. If, during the criminal case, the government comes up with new or additional charges, they will supersede the indictment. As a result, the person will be re-arraigned and given a copy of the indictment, so they know what the new charges are against them.
What Role Does The Grand Jury Have In An Indictment In A Federal Case Or Charging Document?
Grand juries meet in secret, without a defense attorney present. The prosecutor will call witnesses and present evidence and then the grand jury makes a determination as to whether or not to indict. What the grand jury is doing is evaluating whether the prosecution has met the elements of the crimes they want to charge the person with.
I Was Served With A Subpoena To Testify Before A Grand Jury, What Do I Do?
If you have been served with a subpoena, your first move should be to contact a federal criminal defense attorney who knows the jurisdiction where your case is pending. Let them take a look at the grand jury subpoena and see exactly what is listed and whether or not there are any objections to what is listed. Let the attorney help you make the decision on how you are going to respond to the subpoena and whether you risk incriminating yourself by responding.
There Is A Federal Warrant For My Arrest, What Should I Do?
If there is a federal warrant for your arrest, the first thing you should do is contact a federal criminal defense attorney. Get a list of questions together. When you meet with your attorney for the purpose of potentially retaining them you are protected by the attorney-client privilege, so anything you say cannot be used against you or repeated to anyone. Be honest and forthright with the attorney, because he or she is not going to be able to properly advise you if you do not give them accurate, information. Your attorney will assist you to protect your freedom, your rights, and your reputation.
Is It True If I Am Going To Be Indicted, I Will Know Shortly After If I Will Be Arrested?
A lot of times, because people flee the jurisdiction once they realize that they are going to be indicted and arrested, you will not have that information. If you have got an attorney, they need to be given a heads up about an indictment and an arrest. If, on the other hand, you have no attorney, most of the time they are not going to tell you about it.
For more information on Initial Investigation Of Federal Crime, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (213) 542-0979 today.
