Pre-Indictment Investigation
Strategic Investigations Before Charges Filed
Do you believe you may be under investigation?
If you have any reason to believe that you may be under criminal investigation, your best bet is to continue with care. What you do next could have serious consequences in your future if you end up facing criminal charges. Do not leave anything to chance. At the first indication of a criminal investigation, Pre-indictment investigations are one of the best tools that a potential target can utilize.
Strategic Pre-Indictment Criminal Investigations
Understanding An Indictment
An indictment does not mean a person is guilty of a crime. It simply means that a grand jury has determined there is probable cause to formally charge someone based on evidence presented by the prosecution. Grand juries review witness testimony and evidence to decide whether a case should proceed to trial. Once an indictment is issued, the prosecution must present its case in court, and the defense may begin formally challenging the government’s evidence.
What A Pre-Indictment Investigation Involves
A pre-indictment investigation takes place before charges are filed and focuses on uncovering evidence that may exonerate the accused or weaken the government’s case. This process includes analyzing the facts, identifying and interviewing witnesses, conducting in-depth background investigations on accusers, reviewing records, canvassing scenes, and uncovering evidence law enforcement may have missed.
Why Early Investigations Matter
Acting before an indictment is issued can significantly change the course of a case. Trials are costly, risky, and stressful, and avoiding them whenever possible is in the client’s best interest. A strong pre-indictment investigation can expose inconsistencies, impeach witness credibility, and provide prosecutors with evidence that may lead them to decline prosecution altogether.
How This Protects Your Defense
Relying solely on government discovery puts the defense at a disadvantage. Our investigators routinely uncover evidence that undermines the government’s case, leading to dismissals when prosecutors recognize their case cannot withstand scrutiny. If you believe you may be under investigation, do not speak with law enforcement. Speak with an attorney or contact Inter-State Investigative Services immediately for experienced, discreet investigative support.