Start with the agency contact, papers and next deadline.
A call from federal agents, a search, a subpoena or an arrest requires a response based on the actual circumstances. Save the request and contact information. Tell counsel whether you were asked to speak, produce records, appear or address seized property, and whether any conversation has already occurred.
Lebedin Kofman LLP represents clients in SDNY matters. The first discussion should identify your immediate decision and the information needed to evaluate it. Preserve relevant records rather than attempting to correct, delete or reconstruct them.
The government's theory and the evidence
A charging document or investigation request may raise different questions about transactions, communications, devices, conduct and the roles of other people. Give counsel the complete documents, including attachments. Distinguish what you personally know from what someone else reported.
Where records involve a business, identify the entity, the people who created or maintained the material and who can access it. An allegation involving an account or device requires examination of the evidence connecting it to the conduct charged.
Penalties and collateral concerns
Exposure depends on the offense, applicable sentencing provisions and case specific facts. A conviction may involve imprisonment, a fine, restitution and supervision. Counsel should assess the actual allegations before discussing a sentencing range.
Tell the attorney about employment, professional licensing, immigration, family obligations and property concerns. If release conditions restrict travel, device use or contact, provide the written terms. Do not assume an informal request or personal need changes the court's order.
Defense and suppression analysis
The defense reviews the source and completeness of the government's evidence, the alleged mental state and how statements or records were obtained. A device search, financial record or selected message can require detailed examination of context and attribution. Counsel evaluates available motions against the actual record.
For a matter involving multiple people or entities, identify who had authority, knowledge and access at each stage. Keep original records and a timeline. Do not approach witnesses or other involved people about coordinating an account of events.
Information to gather
- The complete subpoena, target letter, complaint, indictment or other notice.
- The case number, agency, agent contact and every response or appearance date.
- Records identifying seized property, account access and relevant communications.
- Release orders and practical concerns about work, dependents and travel.
Explain what is missing so counsel can identify the records to obtain. Ask how sensitive material should be transferred securely; the website form is intended for a short initial summary.
Preparing for an SDNY appearance
The Southern District includes Manhattan, the Bronx and several Hudson Valley counties. Its official court information lists proceedings in Manhattan, White Plains and Poughkeepsie. Follow the location on your notice and counsel's directions rather than assuming every matter is heard at the same building.
The next stage may involve an initial appearance, release issues, discovery, motions, negotiations or trial. If there is a conviction, sentencing requires its own preparation. Counsel should explain which stage you are in and the decisions ahead.
Why timing matters before and after arrest
An approaching interview or production date may require attention before a charge is filed. Once a case is pending, timely preparation also involves compliance with release conditions and preserving material relevant to the defense. Contact the firm with the precise deadline; do not assume it is extended because you requested a consultation.