SUBPOENAS & CIDs
Grand Jury Subpoenas
A grand jury subpoena is a formal order issued by a court, at the request of a prosecutor, compelling a person to appear before a grand jury and either testify or produce documents. The power to issues subpoenas is a key part of a grand jury's investigation. The purpose of a grand jury is to determine if there is enough evidence to formally charge someone with a crime.
Grand jury subpoenas can be served on individuals or business entities, whether the recipient of the subpoena is a target of the investigation or merely a witness. The subpoena can demand production of documents, electronically stored information, or compel the recipient to appear in front of the grand jury. Responding to a grand jury subpoena can be an overwhelming and intimidating task because the subpoena's reach can be expansive and invasive. The Knox Firm has assisted countless clients in responding to grand jury subpoenas and can help streamline the process while protecting your rights. Contact The Knox Firm to schedule a consultation if you are dealing with a grand jury subpoena.
Administrative Subpoenas
An administrative subpoena differs from a grand jury subpoena. An administrative subpoena is a legal document issued by a federal agency rather than a court. Like a grand jury subpoena, an administrative subpoena can compel an individual or entity to produce documents or provide testimony related to an agency's investigation or regulatory duties. This legal process allows federal agencies to gather information without needing prior judicial approval.
​
While administrative subpoenas can be used in both civil and criminal matters, they are not as commonly used in criminal investigations as traditional grand jury subpoenas. Instead, administrative subpoenas are usually used for a broader range of civil or regulatory investigations.
​
Administrative subpoenas may be issued by the FBI, ATF, DEA, DOJ, EPA, IRS, IRS-CID, USDA, HHS, and other federal agencies. ​
Civil Investigative Demands
A Civil Investigative Demand (CID) is the most common type of an administrative subpoena used by federal agencies. The purpose of a CID is promarily to gather information for civil investigations, often before a lawsuit is filed. This demand allows the government to request a wide range of information, including documents, written answers, and oral testimony, without needing to go through a court. CIDs are issued by various federal agencies like the DOJ, FTC, and CFPB.
Receiving a CID can indicate that the recipient may be under scrutiny or simply a source of information. There may be both civil and criminal penalties for failing to comply with a CID. There are, however, limits to the scope of the demands the government can legally make, as well as other legal rights the individual or business may assert after receiving a CID.
The Knox Firm has ample experience representing clients who have been served with a CID and can help streamline the process while protecting your rights. Contact The Knox Firm to schedule a consultation if you are dealing with a CID.
If you've been served with a subpoena or other investigative demand, contact The Knox Firm to discuss your options and legal rights.
We can be reached at 214-741-7474.
THE KNOX FIRM
P: 214.741.7474
Founders Square
900 Jackson Street
Suite Number 650
Dallas, Texas 75202
