A Target Letter: What It Means and What to Do

What is a Target Letter?

According to the law of the United States, a person receives a target letter when a US Attorney has substantial evidence linking him or her to the commission of a crime. A target letter is official correspondence that prosecutors send to people under investigation. It typically notifies a person that they are a subject or target of a grand jury investigation.

Grand Jury Investigations

Grand juries investigate alleged violations of federal or state criminal laws. They are composed of a group of citizens who hear evidence from prosecutors and witnesses and decide whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed. If the grand jury believes that there is probable cause, it will issue an indictment, which is a formal accusation that charges the person with a crime.

Fairness to the Accused

Target letters are often used to be fair to someone who is likely to be charged with a crime. The letter gives the person notice that they are being investigated and allows them to prepare a defense. It also gives the person an opportunity to provide information or evidence to the prosecutors that may help to clear their name.

Key Things to Know

Chin explains three key things to know about target letters:

1.

They are an official piece of correspondence from the Justice Department.

2.

They inform someone that he or she is being investigated.

3.

They do not formally charge a person but indicate that the person is likely to be charged with a crime.

What to Do If You Receive a Target Letter

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

1.

Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.

2.

Do not speak to the prosecutors without your attorney present.

3.

Gather any evidence or information that may help to clear your name.

Receiving a target letter can be a stressful experience, but it is important to remember that you have rights. By taking the appropriate steps, you can protect your rights and ensure that you receive a fair trial.