THE CHETSON FIRMCriminal Defense Attorneys
19 W. Hargett St., Suite 400, Raleigh, NC 27601 | info@chetson.com
The best outcome in any criminal case is avoiding charges entirely. If you learn you're under investigation—whether through a target letter, grand jury subpoena, agent contact, or search warrant—early intervention by an experienced defense attorney can make the difference between prosecution and resolution without charges. Multiple clients have avoided prosecution through our pre-charge intervention.
State & Federal Criminal Law
One of fewer than 100 in NC
Avoided Prosecution
Through Early Intervention
Federal Court Appointed Counsel
Eastern District of NC
If federal agents, police detectives, or investigators have contacted you, do NOT speak with them without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and contact us immediately.
We represent individuals and companies at every stage of criminal investigations:
If you've received a federal target letter, you're the focus of a grand jury investigation. We can negotiate with prosecutors, present exculpatory evidence, and work to prevent indictment.
Grand jury subpoenas require careful handling. We prepare witnesses, advise on Fifth Amendment rights, file motions to quash when appropriate, and protect your interests.
When agents execute a search warrant, every action matters. We advise on your rights, ensure proper procedures, and begin building your defense based on how evidence was obtained.
Companies facing investigations need experienced counsel to protect corporate interests, manage employee interviews, preserve privilege, and navigate regulatory exposure.
Witnesses in criminal investigations need guidance on their rights and risks. We prepare witnesses for interviews while protecting them from becoming targets.
Criminal investigations often coincide with civil litigation or regulatory proceedings. We coordinate defense strategy across multiple forums.
Results vary by case. These outcomes demonstrate our experience but do not guarantee similar results.
Seafood Mislabeling Grand Jury Investigation (2019) — Five clients facing federal grand jury subpoenas. Successfully filed Motion to Quash. None of the five clients were ever charged.
Embezzlement Investigation (Multiple Cases) — Multiple clients under investigation for embezzlement. Intervened during investigation phase. None were charged.
School Teacher Accusation — Teacher facing investigation and pressure from school district. Engaged early. Client was never charged.
MARPOL Environmental Crimes — Complex federal environmental investigation. Strategic approach resulted in client receiving whistleblower reward rather than prosecution.
A target letter is official notice from federal prosecutors that you are the "target" of a grand jury investigation—meaning the government has substantial evidence linking you to a crime. Receiving a target letter requires immediate legal representation.
No. Never speak with law enforcement or federal investigators without an attorney present. Making false statements to federal agents is a crime (18 U.S.C. § 1001). Politely decline and contact an attorney immediately.
Yes. Through early intervention, presenting favorable evidence to prosecutors, and demonstrating weaknesses in the government's case, charges can sometimes be avoided entirely. The earlier you engage counsel, the more options you have.
Corporate investigations require coordinating company interests with those of individual employees. Key concerns include preserving privilege, managing employee interviews, and navigating parallel civil and regulatory proceedings.
The investigation phase offers opportunities that disappear once charges are filed. Contact us immediately for a confidential consultation.
Confidential Consultation | Available for Emergencies
19 W. Hargett St., Suite 400, Raleigh, NC 27601
Information provided does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed. Case results depend on specific facts and do not guarantee similar outcomes.