Target Letters from the Department of Justice (DOJ)

What are Target Letters?

Target letters are notifications sent by federal DOJ prosecutors to government contractors or CEOs likely to be charged with a federal crime. While you might not be facing a grand jury indictment if you receive one of these agency target letters (or at least not yet), you could still be at risk for substantial civil or criminal penalties.

What to Do If You Receive a Target Letter

If you receive a target letter, it is important to take the following steps:

• Contact an attorney immediately. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process.
• Preserve all evidence. This includes any documents, emails, or other materials that may be relevant to the investigation.
• Do not speak to the investigators without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
• Be prepared for the possibility of being indicted. If the grand jury decides that there is enough evidence to support criminal charges, you will be indicted.

What Happens After You Are Indicted?

If you are indicted, you will be arraigned in court and charged with the crime(s) you are accused of committing. You will then have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere. If you plead guilty, you will be sentenced immediately. If you plead not guilty, you will have a trial.

What are the Penalties for Federal Crimes?

The penalties for federal crimes vary depending on the severity of the offense. Some of the most common penalties include:

• Fines
• Imprisonment
• Probation
• Community service

Conclusion

If you receive a target letter from the DOJ, it is important to take the matter seriously. Contact an attorney immediately and follow their advice. The outcome of your case could depend on it.