Getting a federal target letter can be one of the most distressing experiences in a person’s life. Whether it arrives in the mail or is delivered in person, the gravity of the message is clear—federal prosecutors are conducting a serious investigation into you. If you’ve received one in North Carolina, it is important to understand its implications and consider your response carefully.

Federal Target Letters Explained

A target letter is a formal communication from a U.S. Attorney or federal prosecutor informing you that you are the “target” of a federal criminal investigation. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, a target is someone the government believes has substantial evidence linking them to a crime.

The letter may come from agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or other federal entities, and it often includes:

• A summary of the alleged offense
• Notification that you are under investigation
• Your rights, including the right to remain silent and to have an attorney
• Instructions to appear before a grand jury or schedule an interview
• A warning not to destroy any evidence or documents

Being named a target does not mean you are guilty—but it does mean you should take the situation very seriously.

Why You May Have Received a Target Letter

Federal prosecutors issue target letters for a few reasons. Most commonly, they are used to:

• Prompt a suspect to come forward voluntarily
• Offer an opportunity to cooperate in the investigation
• Encourage the preservation of evidence
• Fulfill legal obligations before seeking an indictment

In some cases, a target letter may also signal that the government is giving you a chance to negotiate a plea deal before formal charges are filed.

What Should You Do If You Receive One?

A target letter is a warning sign that federal charges could be coming. Ignoring it or assuming it will go away is a significant mistake. The government has likely spent months—or even years—building its case. You need to act quickly to protect yourself.

Do Not Contact Federal Agents or Prosecutors on Your Own

It’s natural to want to explain your side of the story, especially if you believe there’s been a misunderstanding. However, speaking to federal investigators without an attorney can seriously damage your defense. Anything you say can and will be used against you later.

Contact an Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

This is not the time to wait or rely on general legal advice. You need a North Carolina attorney who understands the federal system—its prosecutors, grand juries, and procedures.

At Ryan Willis Law, we’ve represented clients in various federal cases, including fraud, drug trafficking, conspiracy, and white-collar crimes. We know how to assess the government’s evidence, advise you on your options, and, when appropriate, negotiate with federal authorities to seek reduced charges or immunity.

Do Not Talk To Anyone Else About the Case

Even casual conversations with friends or family could be subpoenaed later. Until you have legal representation, it’s best to say nothing about the investigation to anyone.

Start Gathering Documents and Information

Your attorney will need details to assess your risk and build a strategy. Start gathering any documents, records, or communications that may be relevant—but do not destroy anything. Doing so could lead to obstruction charges.

You Have Rights—Protect Them, Contact Us Today

A federal investigation can be intimidating but remember: you still have constitutional rights. With the proper legal guidance, you may be able to resolve the matter without charges, avoid prison time, or negotiate a favorable outcome.

If you’ve received a federal target letter in North Carolina, do not wait. Contact Ryan Willis Law today for a confidential consultation. Our skilled legal team is here to help you understand where you stand—and fight for your future every step of the way.