You’ve Been Subpoenaed by a Federal Grand Jury—Now What?
Receiving a federal grand jury subpoena is a serious event—one that could indicate you’re involved in a federal criminal investigation. Whether you’re being asked to testify or produce documents, your response can have major legal consequences which is why you need a federal defense attorney on your side.
At Almonte Law, we help individuals, professionals, and businesses navigate the complexities of federal grand jury proceedings with one goal: protect your rights before you’re charged.
What Is a Federal Grand Jury Subpoena?
A grand jury subpoena is a formal demand issued by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) or a U.S. Attorney’s Office. It typically falls into one of two categories:
- Subpoena ad testificandum – Requires you to appear and testify
- Subpoena duces tecum – Requires you to produce documents, records, or data
These subpoenas are usually part of investigations into alleged federal crimes such as:
- Health care fraud
- Government contract fraud
- Drug trafficking conspiracies
- Financial and corporate crimes
- Public corruption or bribery
Are You a Witness, Subject, or Target?
One of the most important things to determine is your status in the investigation:
- Witness: Someone believed to have relevant information, but not under suspicion
- Subject: Someone whose conduct is within the scope of the investigation
- Target: Someone whom the government is likely to indict
You may not be told your status—but an experienced federal defense attorney can often find out and respond accordingly.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
Absolutely. Grand jury proceedings are not like civil lawsuits or state court cases. They’re secret, one-sided, and often stacked in favor of the prosecution. Anything you say, produce, or do can be used against you later.
Hiring a federal defense attorney like Robert Almonte—a former federal prosecutor himself—ensures that your rights are protected, your exposure is limited, and you don’t walk into a trap.
How Almonte Law Helps You
When you contact us after receiving a grand jury subpoena, we will:
- Analyze your subpoena and assess your risk
- Contact the Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) to determine your status
- Negotiate terms or attempt to quash the subpoena
- Advise you on your rights, including invoking the Fifth Amendment where appropriate
- Prepare you to testify, if necessary, without incriminating yourself
In many cases, our early intervention prevents indictment entirely.
Timing Is Critical – Don’t Wait to Get Help
The worst thing you can do is delay or respond without counsel. If you’ve received a federal grand jury subpoena—or think you might—call Almonte Law immediately.
About Robert Almonte
Robert Almonte is a former Assistant U.S. Attorney with years of experience handling federal grand jury investigations. He represents clients in complex federal cases—from high-level fraud to drug conspiracies and public corruption. When you need serious federal representation, Almonte Law delivers.