Federal Target Letters

Received a Federal Target Letter? Here’s What You Need to Know

At Almonte Law, we understand how overwhelming it can be to learn that you’re under federal investigation. As a former federal prosecutor now serving clients in San Antonio and throughout Texas, I bring insider knowledge of how the Department of Justice and federal law enforcement agencies operate. One of the most important documents you may encounter is a federal target letter—an official notice that you are the subject of a potential criminal prosecution.

If you’ve received a target letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office or other federal prosecutors, don’t panic—but do take immediate action. This letter means federal prosecutors believe there is substantial evidence connecting you to a crime. Your next steps are critical.

What Is a Federal Target Letter?

A federal target letter is a formal notice from a U.S. Attorney or a federal law enforcement agency like the FBI, DEA, or IRS, informing you that you are a target of a criminal investigation. This typically means:

• The government has substantial evidence against you.
• You are being considered for criminal charges.
• A grand jury investigation may already be underway.

Unlike being a subject or a witness, being a target means the government believes you likely committed a federal crime.

Why Did You Receive a Target Letter?

Federal prosecutors may issue target letters for several reasons:

1. Formal Notice

You are being officially notified that you are under investigation for potential federal crimes.

2. Invitation to Cooperate

The letter may invite you to cooperate with the investigation in exchange for leniency, reduced charges, or other benefits.

3. Right to Legal Counsel

A target letter advises you to seek legal representation. Never speak to federal agents without an experienced federal criminal defense attorney by your side.

Common Federal Charges That Lead to Target Letters

Federal investigations often focus on serious offenses such as:

• White Collar Crimes: Bank fraud, wire fraud, health care fraud, PPP loan fraud, and money laundering
• Drug Conspiracies and Trafficking
• Public Corruption and Bribery
• Tax Fraud or Evasion
• Immigration and Human Trafficking Offenses

Federal prosecutors are aggressive, and their cases are backed by extensive investigative resources. The sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Robert Almonte, a federal criminal defense attorney in San Antonio, will fight for you.

What to Do If You’ve Received a Federal Target Letter

1. Remain Calm

Receiving a federal target letter doesn’t mean you’re guilty. It means you’re under scrutiny and need to act quickly and wisely.

2. Contact a Federal Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

This is the most important step. Do not face federal prosecutors alone. At Almonte Law, we provide aggressive, experienced defense strategies tailored to federal investigations in San Antonio and throughout Texas– and our focus is federal defense, unlike most other defense attorneys.

3. Do Not Speak to Federal Agents

You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not waive those rights—even casual conversations can hurt your case.

4. Let Your Attorney Review the Government’s Evidence

We will work to assess the strength of the government’s case and determine the best legal strategy—whether that’s cooperation, negotiation, or preparing for trial.

Next Steps After a Target Letter

After receiving a federal target letter, you may:

• Be asked to testify before a grand jury
• Be offered a chance to cooperate
• Face a formal indictment and criminal charges
• Enter plea negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office

Your attorney will help you navigate these critical decisions and protect your interests every step of the way.

Why Almonte Law Is San Antonio’s Trusted Federal Defense Firm

With deep experience on both sides of federal investigations, Almonte Law delivers:

• Aggressive defense strategies backed by federal prosecutorial insight
• Personalized attention and clear communication
• Proven results in white collar, drug, and complex conspiracy cases

If you’ve been contacted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in San Antonio, you need a seasoned defense lawyer who understands the local courts, prosecutors, and federal procedures.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation with a San Antonio Federal Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’ve received a federal target letter in San Antonio, contact Almonte Law today. We’ll help you understand your options, protect your rights, and fight for your future.

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Serving San Antonio, Bexar County, and Texas