Self-defense is a criminal defense that can be raised by criminal defendants who inflict serious…
HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M UNDER CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION IN MISSOURI?
Sometimes, the worst part of a criminal case is what comes before the charges—when you suspect you’re being watched, questioned, or followed, but no one has officially arrested you yet. Many clients ask:
“How do I know if I’m under criminal investigation in Missouri?”
At KC Defense Counsel, our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near me have helped numerous clients in Kansas City respond before formal charges were filed. The earlier you act, the better your chances of protecting your rights and staying ahead of the case. Here’s how to recognize the warning signs and what to do about them.
LAW ENFORCEMENT WILL TRY TO CONTACT YOU
If a police officer, detective, or investigator has called, texted, or left a card asking you to “come in and talk,” you may already be the subject of an investigation.
They might say:
- “We just want to ask a few questions.”
- “You’re not under arrest.”
- “We’re giving you a chance to explain your side.”
These are tactics to get you talking without a lawyer present. Do not assume you’re a witness just because they say so.
FRIENDS AND/OR FAMILY MAY BE QUESTIONED ABOUT YOU
If people around you are being asked questions by law enforcement, it could mean they’re building a case:
- Asking about your whereabouts
- Asking about your behavior, finances, or communications
- Pressuring others to “get you to cooperate”
This is a major red flag that you’re either under investigation now or soon will be.
YOU’VE BEEN SUBPOENAED OR SERVED A SEARCH WARRANT
If you receive a subpoena for documents or testimony—or law enforcement shows up with a search warrant for your phone, home, or vehicle—you are almost certainly under investigation.
These steps indicate the government already has probable cause and is gathering more evidence to bring formal charges.
A FEDERAL AGENCY MAY BE TRYING TO CONTACT YOU
If you hear from the FBI, DEA, ATF, or IRS, your case is likely part of a broader criminal investigation. Federal investigations are often long, quiet, and thorough—so if you’ve been contacted, it means you’re on their radar.
Don’t speak to federal agents without a criminal defense lawyer who understands both Missouri and federal law.
RUMORS. WHISPERS. PEOPLE ARE TALKING.
If coworkers, neighbors, or even acquaintances start asking strange questions or saying they heard your name come up in an investigation, take it seriously. Many investigations begin discreetly and escalate over weeks or months.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU’RE UNDER INVESTIGATION
DO NOT:
- Talk to police without a lawyer
- Try to explain or “clear things up”
- Destroy or hide evidence
- Call witnesses or alleged victims to “smooth things over”
DO:
- Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately
- Preserve all communications and documents
- Avoid posting anything on social media
At KC Defense Counsel, we can often intervene before charges are filed, clarify your legal status, and start building your defense.
DOES LEGAL REPRESENTATION IF I AM BEING INVESTIGATED?
Getting legal help early gives you the chance to:
- Avoid saying something that could be used against you
- Stop charges before they’re filed
- Explore pre-filing negotiations or deferred prosecution
- Prepare for arrest with a bond strategy in place
NEED A KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER? CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL
If you suspect you’re under criminal investigation in Kansas City, don’t wait for an arrest. Call KC Defense Counsel today for a free, confidential case evaluation with one of our affordable Missouri defense attorneys near you. We’ll protect your rights, talk to investigators on your behalf, and take immediate steps to defend your future.