n California, you may not be formally charged with a crime before you become the subject of an investigation. Whether you’re innocent or have concerns about a past incident, recognizing early signs that you’re being investigated can be critical. Catching these signs early may give you time to protect your rights, contact an attorney, and avoid further complications.
Here are the top 10 warning signs that you’re under investigation for a crime—and what you should do if any apply to you.
1. Law Enforcement Contacts You Directly
If police detectives, FBI agents, or other law enforcement officials reach out to you by phone, email, or in person to ask “routine questions,” take it seriously.
What it means:
They may already suspect your involvement and want to gather more information without arresting you yet.
What to do:
Do not speak without an attorney. Politely say, “I would like to speak with my attorney before answering any questions.”
2. You Receive a Subpoena or Grand Jury Summons
Being served a subpoena (to provide documents or testify) or summoned before a grand jury is a clear sign you’re either a target or a person of interest in a criminal investigation.
What it means:
Authorities need information related to a potential crime and suspect you know something—or did something.
What to do:
Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately to review the documents and advise you on how to proceed without incriminating yourself.
3. Police Contact Your Friends, Family, or Coworkers
If people close to you start saying law enforcement reached out to them about you, that’s a red flag.
What it means:
Investigators may be building a case and trying to gather information from your social circle.
What to do:
Avoid speaking to anyone about your case or their conversations with police. Inform your defense attorney so they can determine how far the investigation has progressed.
4. You’re Being Followed or Watched
Seeing the same unmarked car or noticing strange behavior near your home or work may not be paranoia—undercover surveillance is a common part of investigations.
What it means:
You might be under physical surveillance or your activities are being monitored to gather evidence.
What to do:
Start documenting suspicious activity (dates, times, photos if safe), and notify your lawyer.
5. Your Bank or Financial Records Are Accessed
If your bank notifies you that law enforcement requested your financial data, or if you’re locked out of accounts, that’s a major sign of an investigation.
What it means:
White-collar crimes like fraud, money laundering, or tax evasion are often investigated through financial records.
What to do:
Do not alter or delete financial records. Consult a defense attorney experienced in financial crimes immediately.
6. You Notice Changes in Your Digital Devices
If your phone, computer, or accounts behave oddly—like increased battery drain, unexpected crashes, or login attempts—it could mean authorities are monitoring your digital activity.
What it means:
Search warrants can be issued to tap phones or monitor your online behavior.
What to do:
Stop using those devices and talk to a lawyer. Do not tamper with potential evidence—it could make things worse.
7. You Receive an Official Notice of Investigation
Some federal or state agencies send formal notices of investigation, particularly in white-collar cases.
What it means:
You are either a subject (possibly involved) or a target (likely to be charged).
What to do:
Read it carefully and consult a criminal defense attorney immediately. Time is critical.
8. You’re Denied a Professional License or Background Check Fails
If you’re suddenly denied employment, fail a background check, or are rejected from a licensing board, there could be a sealed or pending investigation.
What it means:
There may be ongoing or sealed proceedings connected to your name.
What to do:
Request a copy of your criminal background report. Discuss findings with an attorney.
9. You Get a Search Warrant at Your Home or Office
If law enforcement shows up with a warrant, you are almost certainly the subject of an investigation.
What it means:
They have gathered enough evidence to justify a judge’s approval for a search.
What to do:
Do not resist or interfere. Ask for a copy of the warrant, remain silent, and call your lawyer immediately.
10. You’re Offered a Plea Deal Before Being Formally Charged
This is more common in federal cases or white-collar crime situations. Authorities may approach you with a plea or cooperation deal.
What it means:
They already have enough information to charge you or are closing in.
What to do:
Never accept a deal or speak without legal representation. An experienced attorney can negotiate the best possible terms—or challenge the validity of the evidence.
Bonus: You Feel Like Something’s Off
Sometimes your intuition is your best defense. If people are treating you differently, if your name is coming up in strange conversations, or if you hear rumors—trust your gut.
What it could mean:
Investigators may be operating quietly behind the scenes.
What to do:
Stop discussing sensitive matters with anyone except a lawyer. Preserve documents and evidence that could help you defend yourself later.
What to Do If You Think You’re Under Investigation
If you recognize any of the above signs, follow these steps immediately:
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Do not talk to police or investigators. You have a right to remain silent.
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Hire a criminal defense attorney. The earlier, the better.
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Preserve all evidence. Don’t delete, hide, or destroy anything.
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Limit conversations. Avoid talking to anyone (except your attorney) about the situation.
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Document everything. Keep records of contacts, strange events, or conversations.
Should You Wait to Be Arrested?
Absolutely not. Waiting for an arrest can put you at a disadvantage. The prosecution has time to build a case—why shouldn’t you have the same?
A proactive defense strategy may help you:
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Prevent criminal charges altogether
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Reduce the severity of charges
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Negotiate immunity or favorable outcomes
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Avoid public embarrassment or career damage
Conclusion
If you’re seeing one or more of these warning signs, take it seriously. In California, as in other states, investigations can move quickly and quietly. Recognizing the early indicators gives you a chance to act before it’s too late.
Do not wait until you’re in handcuffs. Contact a trusted criminal defense attorney and start protecting your rights today. Call us today for free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can the police investigate me without telling me?
A: Yes. Police are not required to inform you that you’re under investigation.
Q: What should I do if I receive a subpoena?
A: Contact a lawyer before responding. Even testimony or documents can be self-incriminating.
Q: Is hiring a lawyer a sign of guilt?
A: No. It’s a smart legal precaution—and your constitutional right.
