If you’ve received a target letter from a federal prosecutor, you’re likely feeling anxious—and for good reason. A federal target letter is one of the clearest signs that you’re under investigation and could soon face federal criminal charges. But don’t panic. There are critical steps you can take to protect your rights and prepare a strong defense.
In this article, we’ll explain what a target letter is, what it usually contains, what it means for your case, and what you should do next.
What Is a Federal Target Letter?
A target letter is a formal notice from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)—typically through a U.S. Attorney’s Office—informing you that you are the target of a federal grand jury investigation. This means the government believes it has substantial evidence linking you to a federal crime and is considering criminal charges.
There are three categories in a federal investigation:
- Witness – someone with information, not suspected of wrongdoing.
- Subject – someone whose conduct is under investigation but may not be charged.
- Target – someone the government believes likely committed a federal offense.
If you receive a target letter, you are in the most serious category.
What Does a Target Letter Typically Include?
Although each letter varies, most target letters include the following:
- A statement that you are a target of a federal grand jury investigation.
- A description of the suspected crime, often with reference to specific federal statutes (e.g., wire fraud, tax evasion, drug distribution, or conspiracy).
- A warning that destruction of documents or tampering with evidence could result in additional charges.
- A notice of your right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment.
- Contact information for the Assistant U.S. Attorney handling the case.
Target letters often come before charges are filed and may serve to open the door for negotiation or cooperation.
Why Did I Receive a Target Letter?
Federal prosecutors may send a target letter for several reasons:
- To formally notify you that you’re under investigation.
- To offer you the opportunity to cooperate or testify.
- To prevent you from destroying or altering evidence.
- To prompt you to hire a defense attorney and open communication with the government.
- To preserve fairness by providing warning in advance of an indictment.
Sometimes, prosecutors use target letters strategically—to evaluate your response, test whether you might seek a plea, or identify who might be willing to cooperate.
What Should I Do If I Receive a Target Letter?
Here are five immediate steps you should take:
1. Do not talk about the letter.
Avoid speaking with anyone except your lawyer about the letter or what it might involve. Friends, family, coworkers, and investigators are not safe confidants.
2. Hire a federal criminal defense attorney immediately.
Federal criminal cases differ from state cases in many ways. They often move more quickly, carry stiffer penalties, and involve more complex charges. It is essential to work with an attorney who has experience in federal court and understands the nuances of grand jury proceedings.
3. Preserve all relevant documents and communications.
Do not delete emails, text messages, financial records, or other potentially relevant materials. Destroying or tampering with evidence could lead to obstruction of justice charges—even if you never get charged with the underlying crime.
4. Allow your attorney to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Your lawyer can open communication with the assigned federal prosecutor to clarify the situation, negotiate, or explore alternatives to indictment. This is not something you should attempt to handle yourself.
5. Begin preparing for possible indictment.
Even if your attorney is working to avoid charges, be prepared for the possibility that an indictment may still come. Early preparation gives you the best chance to protect your rights and build a strong defense.
Can a Target Letter Be a Good Sign?
Surprisingly, yes. A target letter is at least a signal that the government has not yet filed charges. It gives your attorney a critical opportunity to intervene—possibly to prevent charges altogether or secure a more favorable outcome through negotiation or cooperation.
Some people who receive target letters are never indicted. Others are able to negotiate reduced charges or plea deals that avoid trial and mandatory minimum sentences.
How Long After a Target Letter Is an Indictment Filed?
There is no fixed timeline. Some people are indicted within weeks; others may wait months—or even longer. A variety of factors influence the timing:
- The complexity of the investigation
- Whether the grand jury is still receiving evidence
- The level of cooperation from other witnesses
- Strategic considerations by the U.S. Attorney’s Office
You should consider the receipt of a target letter as an urgent sign to take action now—not later.
Target Letters in Alabama
If you live in Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, or Mobile, your case is likely being handled in the Northern, Middle, or Southern District of Alabama. These U.S. Attorney’s Offices investigate a wide range of federal offenses, including:
- Drug conspiracies
- Firearm and gun trafficking offenses
- Wire and mail fraud
- Public corruption
- PPP loan and CARES Act fraud
- Healthcare fraud
- White-collar crimes and financial schemes
As a federal criminal defense firm based in Alabama, we routinely represent clients who receive target letters and guide them through grand jury investigations, pre-indictment negotiations, and trial when necessary.
Final Thoughts
A target letter is one of the most serious warnings you can receive from the federal government. But it’s also an opportunity. With the help of a knowledgeable attorney, you can take control of the situation and start shaping your legal defense before charges are filed.
Whether the government wants to charge you or is still deciding, your response can make a major difference in how things unfold.
Contact Us Today If You’ve Received a Target Letter
If you’ve received a target letter from the U.S. Department of Justice, or suspect you may be under investigation, don’t wait. Contact The Law Offices of Johnathan L. Williams, LLC today for a confidential consultation. We represent clients in federal cases throughout Alabama and across the Southeast.
📞 Call: (205) 573-4752
📧 Email: johnathan@johnathanlwilliams.com
🌐 Visit: johnathanlwilliams.com