Learning that you are under investigation can come as a shock. Especially if you have not knowingly done anything wrong. Yet, each year many people find themselves in just this situation because the authorities believe they were involved in a white-collar crime.
It would be natural to panic, but doing so could cause you to make mistakes that could worsen your predicament. For example:
1. Altering evidence
Let’s say you learn that the authorities think you were party to some suspect dealings that a company you did some work for stands accused of. You decide it might be safest to destroy all the records pertaining to the work you did with them. However, doing this could lead to charges for tampering with evidence.
2. Asking people to help you avoid prosecution
There is only one member of your staff from that time still on the team. You approach them and tell them that if anyone asks them about those events, they are to lie and say they were off that month. You add that it is really important they do what you say, and their job may be at risk if they don’t (because you might have to shut the company down if prosecuted). A court might see it as intimidation or an attempt to obstruct justice.
3. Fleeing arrest
You’ve decided to let the investigation run its course, but when the receptionist buzzes to say the police are coming up to your office you try and make a run for it, as you are scared at the prospect of prison. Not only could this make it look like you have something to hide, but it could result in injury to yourself or others if a chase occurs.
The best thing to do at the first hint you are under investigation is to seek legal guidance to understand your options and learn what not to do.
