FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE

AVOIDING OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE AND PERJURY CHARGES

One of the mistakes people often make when they learn they’re under investigation is the destruction or withholding of relevant documents, emails, etc. Sometimes people mistakenly believe that if they remove or hide documents from investigators, the agents will drop an investigation or look elsewhere. First, that never stops diligent federal agents and, second, doing so constitutes a whole separate and sometimes worse crime – obstruction of justice – which will likely result in additional, and very serious, criminal charges.

Sometimes subjects of investigations who feel they have “nothing to hide” make the mistake of talking to investigators without an attorney present, not realizing that the agents’ notes are not records of the exact words spoken, but of the agent’s own sense of what was actually said – in other words, the agent’s interpretation is all that is in those reports.

But nevertheless, whatever is in those reports still will be taken as “gospel” to judges and jurors. This is one reason why agencies like the FBI prohibit tape recorded interviews – so the agent will be the one and only “believable” witness at trial of what he was “told” by the defendant. The best practice is not to talk with them without first contacting a very experienced criminal defense lawyer.

WE WILL CLEARLY EXPLAIN YOUR RIGHTS AND OPTIONS

Talking to investigators without a lawyer’s help can also often result in the completely subjective claim you made an admission of guilt, or an actual confession. What is in an agent’s notes will be used against you at trial to claim you are lying under oath because your testimony is different from the agent’s notes. If you’ve been contacted by investigators, call Jim Burdick immediately to protect yourself. He will evaluate your case and your requirements, contact the government for you and ensure you do all you are required by law to do without incriminating yourself.

If Jim Burdick is brought into the early stages of an investigation, it is sometimes possible to convince investigators or the federal prosecutors that they just don’t have a case. You should never talk with criminal (or even regulatory) investigators without qualified counsel guiding you, making sure your words are not misunderstood, misquoted or twisted against you.

TO AVOID LIFE-ALTERING — AND UNDESERVED — CONSEQUENCES REMEMBER:

Because so many of the potential (and often likely) sanctions have life-altering consequences, it is critical to immediately consult with a lawyer who is experienced, successful and respected in representing clients in drug and drug-related charges. We have the skills, the experience and unparalleled trial results you need to properly and effectively represent your interests.

Contact Jim Burdick to schedule an initial consultation with an experienced drug crime defense attorney. He provides representation throughout the state of Michigan and the United States, independently evaluating each client’s case to determine:

• Whether there is sufficient evidence to prove the allegations
• Whether your initial contact with law enforcement was illegal
• Whether the search of your business, your home, your vehicle or your storage facility was lawful
• Whether your rights were properly explained and provided to you
• Whether the police officer found drugs, drug records or other evidence on your person, in your office, your car or your home
• Whether the drugs were owned by someone else

REMEMBER

Never talk with agents, police or other investigators, or anyone else, about your suspicions or concern. First, contact Jim Burdick to learn what your rights are and how to best defend against the government’s accusations.

Call Jim Burdick at 248-335-5000, or contact him, online, so you can find out what your rights are and get him to fight for you.