What Should I Do When FBI Agents Show Up at My House to Interview Me?

Having FBI agents knock on your front door can be an extremely alarming and stressful experience. In these instances, you may be a potential witness to a crime, a person of interest, or unknowingly tied to a criminal investigation.   Your response to the presence of FBI agents at your home can have lasting legal consequences. Protecting your rights by remaining silent, not consenting to searches without a warrant, and contacting an attorney as soon as possible is essential. The sections below explain exactly what to do when agents show up at your house. 

Stay Calm and Composed

First and foremost, remain calm. FBI agents are trained professionals. Reacting with hostility or panic can escalate the situation unnecessarily.    Remember, your demeanor matters. It could affect how agents view your level of cooperation or even influence how you are treated during the encounter.

Do Not Invite Them Inside Without a Warrant

One of the most important things to remember is that you are not legally required to let FBI agents into your home unless they have a valid search or arrest warrant. Politely ask the agents if they have such a warrant. If they do, request to see it and examine it carefully before allowing them entry.   If they do not have a warrant, you are within your rights to refuse them entry. Simply tell them you are uncomfortable speaking or letting them in without consulting your attorney. This is a lawful response and does not admit guilt.

You Are Not Obligated to Answer Questions

If agents start asking you questions, you have the constitutional right to remain silent. The Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments protect you from self-incrimination, and anything you say can be used against you.    Even if you believe you’re innocent or have nothing to hide, giving statements without legal advice can be risky. Agents could misinterpret or even twist your statements.   A respectful and straightforward response, such as “I would like to speak to a lawyer before answering any questions,” is sufficient. This assertion should end the interview. If it doesn’t, the agents may be engaging in unconstitutional conduct, and such evidence may not be admissible in court.

Do Not Destroy or Conceal Evidence

It is a crime to tamper with, conceal, or destroy evidence that might be relevant to a criminal investigation. Do not delete files, throw away documents, or otherwise interfere with potential evidence. If you do, you could face serious obstruction charges   Always consult with your attorney before taking any action related to possible evidence.

Keep a Record of the Visit

Write down the names of the agents, the time of their visit, and what they said or asked you. Also, note whether they left any documents such as subpoenas or business cards. This information can help your attorney understand the nature of the visit and advise you on how to proceed. 

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately if FBI Agents Show Up at Your House. 

If FBI agents visit your home, you should immediately contact a qualified criminal defense attorney. Your lawyer can assess the situation, determine whether you are under investigation, and protect your rights by handling all communications. Even if the agents claim you’re not the target of the investigation, you should still get legal advice. You might be a witness today, but a suspect tomorrow. An experienced attorney can handle all interactions with law enforcement and help you avoid incriminating yourself.

For more information, please contact our San Antonio criminal defense law firm, Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, at our offices located in Texas.

Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC San Antonio
922 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 500 0000

Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC Corpus Christi
5110 Wilkinson Dr Suite 210, Corpus Christi, TX 78415
(361) 8006 780