Just Because The Government Says They Can, Does Not Make It True

Government investigations can put a chill on a company or a person. The mere threat of one is often enough to compel a person to comply with a wide range of requests, even when there is no legal obligation to do so. But government action is highly limited for good reason, and you are entitled to protect your interests.

If a government agency sends you a subpoena or sends investigators to your business, you need to take immediate protective action, even if you know without a doubt that you have done nothing illegal. Hickey & Chung, LLP, leverages over 25 years of legal experience on behalf of our clients. In the midst of a federal or state investigation, no matter what regulatory agency is involved, you can rely upon us to stand up for you and your business interests.

Insulate Your Business From Regulatory And Criminal Investigation

At Hickey & Chung, LLP, our attorneys are highly skilled and adaptable advocates. They use decades of knowledge to put a stop to government encroachment, including in investigations involving:

• The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
• The Federal Trade Commission
• The Federal Bureau of Investigation
• The Securities and Exchange Commission
• The Department of Labor
• The Environmental Protection Agency
• The Internal Revenue Service
• Other administrative bodies, both federal and state

Investigatory bodies often seek specific and technical information, and they will go to great lengths to obtain them. In a modern world, both businesses and individuals need to be highly aware of their rights and take active steps to protect themselves, their businesses and their property, including during digital investigations.

When The Consequences Are Civil

One of the most common misconceptions people have is that the police are the way the government implements its will. In reality, law enforcement is a blunt tool and the government has a very large toolbox. While many government investigations lead to criminal charges and convictions, the vast majority of investigations never lead to criminal conviction. Instead, the subjects of investigation face overwhelmingly oppressive bureaucratic consequences in civil court.

Common consequences that businesses and individuals face during and after a government investigation include strict limitations on their business capacity, ongoing surveillance, fines, injunctions and other serious financial and personal penalties.

You Need To Prepare For A Complicated Legal Situation

Not only do government investigations often involve years of documents and extensive evidence and testimony to sort through, but your legal challenges may need extensive coordination. In some cases, particularly surrounding businesses and non-profits, dozens of lawyers may need to intercede because each party involved, including each employee, may need a representative. Give yourself every opportunity to succeed by taking prompt and effective action. Call our office in San Francisco today at 415-484-4547 or send us an email to schedule an appointment.