Target Letters: What They Are and What They Mean
What is a Target Letter?
A target letter is an official letter from the United States Department of Justice that notifies a person that they are a subject or target of a grand jury investigation. The letter typically informs the recipient that they may be charged with a crime, and it provides them with certain rights and information.
How Target Letters Are Used
Target letters are often used in high-profile cases, such as the investigation into the January 6th Capitol attack. They can also be used in less serious cases, such as fraud or tax evasion. The decision to send a target letter is made by the prosecutor who is overseeing the investigation.
What to Do if You Receive a Target Letter
If you receive a target letter, it is important to take it seriously. You should contact an attorney immediately to discuss your rights and options. Your attorney can help you understand the charges against you, negotiate with the prosecution, and prepare for trial if necessary.
The Law of the United States
According to the law of the United States, a person has the following rights if they are the target of a grand jury investigation:
- The right to be informed of the charges against you
- The right to an attorney
- The right to remain silent
- The right to cross-examine witnesses
- The right to present evidence on your behalf
It is important to remember that these rights are not absolute. For example, you may not be able to cross-examine witnesses if they are undercover agents or if they have been granted immunity from prosecution.
The Department of Justice's General Practice
The Department of Justice's general practice is to warn people before they are charged with a crime. This is done to give people an opportunity to cooperate with the investigation and to avoid being surprised by an indictment.
However, there are some cases in which the Department of Justice may decide not to send a target letter. For example, a target letter may not be sent if the investigation is in its early stages or if the person is not considered to be a flight risk.
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