Federal Investigations
Federal Investigations & Target Letters Defense Attorney in Houston
The Law Offices of James Alston
A federal investigation is often the earliest—and most critical—stage of a serious criminal case.
By the time federal agents make contact, investigators may already have spent months or even years gathering evidence through subpoenas, surveillance, financial records, and grand jury proceedings. What you do at this stage can significantly affect whether charges are filed, how severe they become, and your overall exposure to federal prosecution.
If you are being contacted by federal agents, served with a subpoena, or have received a target letter from a United States Attorney’s Office or the Department of Justice, immediate legal representation is essential.
James Alston is a Houston criminal defense attorney with more than 30 years of criminal law experience, including service as a former Assistant United States Attorney. He understands how federal investigations are developed, how prosecutors evaluate potential charges, and how early legal intervention can protect clients facing serious federal scrutiny.
What Is a Federal Target Letter?
A target letter is a formal notice from federal prosecutors stating that:
- you are the target of a federal criminal investigation, and
- the government believes there is substantial evidence linking you to a crime, and
- prosecutors are considering seeking an indictment from a grand jury.
Receiving a target letter is a serious legal event, but it is also a critical opportunity to act before formal charges are filed.
Early defense efforts may allow counsel to:
- communicate with prosecutors on your behalf
- present exculpatory or mitigating information
- address misunderstandings in the investigation
- potentially influence whether charges are pursued
Because timing is crucial, you should never respond to a target letter or contact prosecutors without experienced federal defense counsel.
Understanding Your Status in a Federal Investigation
Federal prosecutors typically classify individuals in an investigation as:
Target
A person the government believes has substantial exposure to criminal charges and is a likely candidate for indictment.
Subject
Someone whose conduct is within the scope of the investigation, but where prosecutors have not yet determined whether criminal charges are appropriate.
Witness
An individual believed to have relevant information, though this status can change quickly as the investigation progresses.
These classifications are administrative only and provide no legal protection.
Statements made while believing you are “just a witness” can later be used in a prosecution.
How Federal Investigations Commonly Begin
Federal investigations may arise from:
- grand jury subpoenas or document requests
- contact from federal agents seeking interviews
- financial or regulatory inquiries
- allegations involving fraud, public corruption, or false statements
- referrals from agencies such as the FBI, SEC, IRS, DEA, or Homeland Security
Agents are trained investigators whose goal is often to gather evidence through statements, documents, or consent searches.
What you say—or fail to say—can have lasting legal consequences.
The Importance of Early Legal Representation
The investigation stage is often the best opportunity to influence the outcome of a federal case.
Early involvement of experienced federal defense counsel may help:
- protect constitutional rights during questioning or searches
- manage communications with investigators and prosecutors
- evaluate subpoena scope and response strategy
- present information that may prevent charges or reduce exposure
- prepare a defense strategy before indictment
Because federal prosecutors typically build cases carefully before filing charges, proactive legal defense can be decisive.
Former Federal Prosecutor Providing Strategic Investigation Defense
Before entering private practice, James Alston served as an Assistant United States Attorney, prosecuting serious federal criminal matters. He now applies that experience to defending individuals facing federal investigations, subpoenas, and potential indictment.
He brings:
- More than 30 years of criminal law experience
- Over 20 years practicing in federal court
- Hundreds of federal criminal cases handled in Houston
- Board Certification in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
This background provides valuable insight into:
- how federal prosecutors evaluate evidence before indictment
- when intervention may influence charging decisions
- how to position a case for the strongest possible defense
What To Do If Federal Agents Contact You
If federal agents attempt to question you:
- remain calm and respectful
- do not answer questions or make statements
- do not consent to searches
- request to speak with an attorney immediately
Politely informing agents that your lawyer will contact them is often the safest course of action.
Speak With a Houston Federal Investigations Attorney Immediately
If you are under federal investigation, have received a target letter, or believe charges may be forthcoming, do not delay in seeking experienced legal counsel.
Contact The Law Offices of James Alston
📞 (713) 280-5615
to schedule a confidential consultation.
Early action can make a critical difference before federal charges are filed.
