Politely decline to speak without an attorney present. Say "I want to exercise my right to remain silent and speak with a lawyer." This applies whether it';s FBI, DEA, IRS, ATF, Homeland Security, or SEC agents. Never lie or provide false information, but you're not required to answer questions. Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately.

Signs include federal agents (FBI, DEA, IRS, ATF, Homeland Security, SEC) contacting you or associates, subpoenas for documents or testimony, frozen bank accounts, search warrants at your home or business, or friends/colleagues mentioning they've been questioned about you. Federal investigations often happen quietly for months before charges. If you think that you are under investigation, you should contact a federal criminal defense attorney. At the Mendelsohn Ertel Law Group, we work proactively in these situations to keep an investigation from turning into criminal charges.

Being contacted means agents want to question you but haven't charged you yet. You're free to leave and can refuse to talk. Being arrested means you're in custody and have been formally charged. If arrested, immediately request an attorney and don't discuss your case with anyone.

Generally, no. Federal agents need a search warrant signed by a judge unless there are emergency circumstances like immediate danger or evidence destruction. You can ask to see the warrant and

should not consent to searches. Contact an attorney immediately if your property is searched.