If you are contacted by federal law enforcement or otherwise become aware that they would like to speak to you about a criminal investigation, you should talk to an attorney before speaking with federal officers. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may contact our office at (412) 644-6565 in Pittsburgh to learn whether you can be appointed an attorney at no cost. (For help in an Erie or Johnstown case, contact our Pittsburgh office.)
If you think you might be the subject of a federal investigation, you should contact a criminal defense attorney before speaking with law enforcement agents or their representatives. You have a right to an attorney’s advice and counsel in any conversation with law enforcement agents.
You do not have to talk with any law enforcement officer except to give your name. Whatever you say, tell the truth; although, it may be better to say nothing. Even if you believe that you are only a witness (rather than a suspect) in a federal investigation, you still have the option and the right to talk to an attorney and to refuse to speak with law enforcement.
If you are contacted by federal law enforcement, tell them that you are requesting an attorney and contact our office at (412) 644-6565 in Pittsburgh. (For help in an Erie or Johnstown case, contact our Pittsburgh office.) A staff member will help you complete a financial affidavit to determine if you can be appointed an attorney at no cost to you.
It is important to determine whether you are the subject of the grand jury investigation or just a witness providing evidence. The “subject” or “target” is anybody whom the government might charge with a crime as a result of the grand jury proceedings. Check the subpoena or your letter from the U. S. Attorney to see whether that office considers you a “subject” or “target” of the investigation. If you are the “subject” or “target” -- or even if you are uncertain but suspect you might be the “subject” or “target” of the grand jury investigation -- you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. You should not negotiate with the prosecutors or law enforcement agents by yourself. A criminal defense attorney can protect important rights for you, including your right against self-incrimination, and may be able to successfully negotiate immunity in exchange for your testimony. Even if you believe you are only a witness (rather than a suspect) in a federal investigation, you still have the option and the right to talk to an attorney and to refuse to speak with law enforcement.
If you cannot afford an attorney, you should contact our office at (412) 644-6565 in Pittsburgh. (For help in an Erie or Johnstown case, contact our Pittsburgh office.) A staff member will help you complete a financial affidavit to determine if you can be appointed an attorney at no cost.