Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Colorado
FBI Questioning/Right to Silence (Internet Law Related)
I was recently contacted by someone who says they're from the FBI and is talking to me about some intellectual property violations an assocaited of mine has already been processed for. They recieved my name from this person and are pushing me to cooperate with them in trying to ''catch'' others with an ''internet honey pot'' of sorts. I have stopped my association with the afore mentioned person and people like him and this would lead me back into that life where I don't want to be. Can I say no or will they try to arrest me for something? Should I cease all communication with them unless I have a lawyer present? What are my rights, what do they have to tell me about what they want to do with me and how truthful do they have to be (can i ask them for their intent in writing, etc). What type of lawyer should I contact if that's the recomended course of action?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: FBI Questioning/Right to Silence (Internet Law Related)
You do not have to talk with anyone that you do not want to talk with. This includes the FBI. They only have to advise you of your rights if you are in custody.
I suggest that you discuss your situation with a criminal lawyer.
If you are subpoenaed by a Grand Jury, then you will be required to testify, but only if you are not the target of the Grand Jury.
No matter what, I would recommend you discuss with a criminal attorney. You can sit down and talk in a confidential attorney-client relationship where the attorney can advise you of your rights, your potential charges if any and you can discuss the best way to proceed. You may have an attorney with you when you discuss with the FBI or others.
It is up to you to protect yourself. If I were you, I would refuse to discuss anything about this until I got the approval of a good attorney. Maybe an immunity agreement.
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