Address: 2900 Bristol St., Suite C204 Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Available To Serve You Nationwide On All Federal Cases
This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Karren Kenney following our comprehensive editorial guidelines Karren Kenney, the Founding Partner, has 30+ years of legal experience as a criminal defense attorney.
When federal investigations target you or your business in San Diego, having an experienced federal investigation lawyer can mean the difference between avoiding charges and facing severe penalties. Kenney Legal Defense has decades of experience in criminal defense, protecting clients during federal investigations conducted by agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. With over 100 jury trials conducted, we understand how federal prosecutors build cases in the Southern District of California. Our law firm provides immediate legal representation when federal agents begin investigating, helping clients navigate the complex federal criminal case process before charges are filed.
Federal investigations differ fundamentally from state crime investigations, involving multiple federal agencies with sophisticated resources and nationwide jurisdiction that state law enforcement lacks. The federal court system in San Diego's district court handles complex criminal prosecution matters ranging from healthcare fraud to securities fraud, each requiring specialized defense strategies. Our defense attorney recognizes that early intervention during investigations can prevent charges, reduce their severity, or position clients favorably before grand jury proceedings begin.
Federal crime investigations in San Diego often focus on white collar crimes, drug trafficking, and cross-border criminal activity unique to this border region. Federal prosecutors in the Southern District coordinate with numerous agencies to build cases over months or years before making arrests. Our criminal defense lawyers understand that protecting constitutional rights during the investigation phase proves crucial, as statements made and evidence gathered during this period often determine whether prosecution proceeds.
San Diego federal investigations reflect the city's unique position as a major port, military hub, and border crossing, creating diverse federal enforcement priorities. Our legal team has successfully represented clients in all types of federal cases originating in the San Diego area. We understand how local federal agencies operate and what triggers investigations in this region, having developed our expertise through private practice and extensive experience in criminal law.
Cross-border financial investigations in San Diego focus on money laundering, currency smuggling, and illicit fund transfers between the U.S. and Mexico. Federal agencies monitor banking transactions, cash deposits, and wire transfers for suspicious patterns suggesting criminal activity. These investigations often involve multiple countries, requiring navigation of international law and treaty obligations. Our defense strategy includes challenging jurisdiction, demonstrating legitimate business purposes for international transactions, and protecting clients from overreaching investigations that criminalize normal border commerce.
San Diego's massive defense industry faces constant scrutiny for alleged fraud involving military contracts, with investigations under the False Claims Act carrying treble damages, as well as potential criminal prosecution. The government investigates billing practices, product quality, and compliance with complex procurement regulations that even legitimate contractors struggle to navigate perfectly. Medicare fraud techniques are also applicable to defense healthcare contracts, creating additional exposure for medical providers serving military personnel. We protect defense contractors by demonstrating good faith compliance efforts, challenging the credibility of whistleblowers, and negotiating civil resolutions that avoid criminal charges.
Immigration investigations in San Diego target alleged smuggling operations, document fraud, and employment violations at businesses hiring undocumented workers. Federal agents conduct workplace raids, investigate marriages for potential fraud, and pursue criminal charges against both employers and workers. The proximity to Mexico means heightened enforcement and aggressive prosecution of immigration-related offenses. We defend against these investigations by challenging probable cause for raids, protecting employer rights during I-9 audits, and demonstrating a lack of knowledge about employee status.
Customs investigations involve alleged violations of import/export regulations, including duty evasion, trafficking in prohibited goods, and false declarations at ports of entry. San Diego's ports handle massive cargo volumes, making customs compliance challenging for legitimate businesses navigating complex regulations. Health care fraud sometimes intersects with customs cases when medical devices or pharmaceuticals are imported illegally. Our fraud defense approach includes demonstrating reasonable interpretations of regulations and good faith efforts to comply with requirements.
International money laundering investigations often begin with Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) from banks that detect unusual patterns in cross-border transactions. These investigations can span years, involving wiretaps, undercover operations, and financial analysis of complex business structures. Tax evasion charges frequently accompany money laundering when unreported foreign accounts are discovered. We protect clients by challenging the source of funds allegations, demonstrating legitimate business purposes, and negotiating resolutions that avoid devastating criminal charges.
Public corruption investigations target San Diego government officials, contractors, and businesses accused of bribery, kickbacks, or conflicts of interest. The Anti-Kickback Statute and other federal laws create criminal liability for payments that might seem like normal business practices. These politically sensitive investigations often attract media attention that can damage reputations, regardless of the outcome. Our defense includes challenging quid pro quo requirements, demonstrating legitimate relationships, and protecting clients from prosecution based on political motivations.
Environmental investigations in San Diego focus on illegal disposal, water pollution from ships, and violations at the numerous military and industrial facilities throughout the region. Federal environmental crimes carry surprisingly harsh penalties, including prison time for regulatory violations that businesses might view as minor. Criminal investigation often begins with civil enforcement before escalating to criminal prosecution. We defend by demonstrating lack of willfulness, challenging scientific evidence, and negotiating civil resolutions that avoid criminal charges.
Federal investigations in San Diego often close without charges when evidence proves insufficient or when legal representation successfully demonstrates innocence. Our federal crimes defense team has prevented charges through strategic engagement with prosecutors and agencies. According to DOJ statistics, many investigations end with declination letters rather than indictments.
Insider trading, healthcare fraud, and other complex investigations sometimes fail when prosecutors realize cases are weaker than initially believed. An aggressive defense during investigations exposes weaknesses, challenges assumptions, and provides exculpatory evidence that can prevent prosecution. The key is acting quickly to influence prosecutorial decisions before momentum builds toward indictment.
Proactive defense during federal investigations can dramatically improve outcomes compared to waiting for charges. Federal criminal defense attorneys who engage early can present evidence, provide context, and negotiate resolutions before prosecutors commit to indictment. Our criminal law experience shows that early intervention often results in civil resolutions, deferred prosecution agreements, or complete declinations.
The period between learning of an investigation and potential charges provides crucial opportunities to shape the narrative. Federal charges carry mandatory minimums and sentencing guidelines that limit options once filed. Strategic engagement during investigations can result in reduced charges, cooperation agreements, or pretrial diversion that avoids criminal convictions entirely.
Fighting federal overreach becomes essential when investigations exceed legal boundaries, violate constitutional rights, or target legitimate business practices. San Diego federal prosecutors sometimes pursue aggressive theories that criminalize regulatory violations or business disputes. Our extensive trial experience includes challenging overreaching prosecutions that threaten innocent people with federal prison.
Some federal investigations reflect political pressure, media attention, or agency priorities rather than actual criminal conduct. When investigations lack merit, aggressive defense can expose government overreach and protect clients from unjust prosecution. We file motions challenging investigation tactics, seeking the return of seized property, and demanding government accountability for constitutional violations.
How do I know if I'm under federal investigation?
Signs include federal agents contacting you or your associates, receiving grand jury subpoenas, banks freezing your accounts, or learning that others are being questioned about you. Target letters formally notify subjects, but investigations often proceed without notice.
Should I cooperate with federal investigators?
Never cooperate without legal counsel, as even truthful statements can be misinterpreted or used against you. The Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination during investigations.
What's the difference between target, subject, and witness?
Targets are likely defendants, subjects are within the investigation scope but not primary targets, and witnesses have relevant information without criminal exposure. Status can change as investigations develop.
Can federal investigations monitor my communications?
Yes, federal agencies can obtain warrants for wiretaps, email monitoring, and location tracking during investigations.
How long do federal investigations last in San Diego?
Complex investigations involving white collar crimes or drug trafficking can continue for years before resolution. Simple cases might conclude in months, but no fixed timelines exist.
When federal investigations threaten your freedom, reputation, and future in San Diego, immediate legal representation from an experienced federal criminal defense attorney is essential. Kenney Legal Defense combines three decades of criminal defense experience with specific knowledge of how federal agencies operate in the Southern District of California. Contact us today at 714-418-4261 for a confidential consultation.
