If you receive a grand jury subpoena, you really only have one option. You have to respond to it. We understand that this can seem scary, especially because you probably are unsure of exactly why you are being served in the first place. This is why it is also a good idea to talk to a Memphis white-collar crime lawyer from our firm before you respond. We can help you comply with a subpoena while protecting yourself.
Does Being Served With a Grand Jury Subpoena Mean I Am Being Investigated For a Crime?
It can, but this is the thing that is most worrying about a grand jury subpoena. A grand jury investigates crimes, usually white-collar crimes, in secret. So when you receive that subpoena, you cannot be sure exactly why the prosecutor is looking at you. The three most common possibilities are:
- You are the target of an investigation. The prosecution thinks that it is likely that you are involved in criminal activities and you are potentially facing some serious charges.
- You are a subject of the investigation. You may have criminal liability, so the prosecutor could be using this subpoena to see if you are more involved.
- You are a witness. The state thinks that you have useful information or evidence that could make a difference in a case. They have not ruled out your involvement in criminal activity though.
In any of these situations, having a lawyer on your side can be beneficial.
What Happens If I Ignore a Grand Jury Subpoena?
Ignoring a grand jury subpoena will not accomplish anything. You will still have to comply with the subpoena and you will be held in contempt of court. So it is in your interest to talk to a lawyer and find the best way to comply with the grand jury subpoena instead of thinking that you can somehow outmaneuver the legal system here.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me Respond to a Subpoena?
Having a lawyer when you respond to a grand jury subpoena can be beneficial for a few reasons. If the subpoena asks you to submit a large selection of documents, your attorney might be able to get them to narrow their scope. In some cases, an attorney can even get a subpoena thrown out entirely. There has to be a good legal reason for the court to do that though.
When you have to testify, you will be glad that you have a lawyer on your side. They can prepare you and help you avoid self-incrimination. They can even tell you if you should be invoking your Fifth Amendment right to stay silent.
Talk to Our Legal Team Today
When you are ready to respond to a grand jury subpoena, contact Ballin, Ballin & Fishman, PC. We can schedule a consultation and tell you more about how we can help protect you as you comply with the subpoena and meet all legal obligations.
