FBI Interview: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Getting contacted by the FBI feels scary. The good news: an FBI interview is usually a fact-finding conversation, not an automatic arrest. Knowing how these interviews work and what to do will keep you calm and help you avoid mistakes.

Before the interview

First, find out why they want to talk. Ask the agent for a clear reason, who is leading the interview, and how long it will last. Write down any dates, names, or documents they mention. If you can, contact a lawyer right away. A lawyer can explain whether you should go, how to answer, and whether you should request that the interview be recorded.

Prepare a short timeline of events and any documents that relate to the topic. Keep the timeline factual: dates, places, who said what. Bring a photocopy of your ID and any documents you already have. Don’t try to guess details you don’t remember—note them so you can check later.

During the interview

Be polite and use plain speech. Listen to the question, pause, and answer only what was asked. Short, truthful answers are better than long explanations that add confusion. If you don’t understand a question, say so and ask them to repeat or clarify.

If the agent says you are not free to leave or starts reading you rights, that’s a signal to ask for a lawyer before answering more questions. If you are a witness, you still have rights. You can say, "I want to speak with my lawyer" and stop the interview until your lawyer arrives.

Avoid volunteering extra information. Don’t guess or invent memories. If you realize later that you made a mistake, tell your lawyer and the agent right away—correcting errors is better than staying silent and letting the record stand.

Take notes after the interview. Write down who you spoke to, the location, the time, and the questions you remember. These notes help your lawyer and protect you if details get called into question later.

Practical do’s and don’ts:

• Do: Be honest, calm, and concise.
• Do: Ask for identification if you’re unsure who the agents are.
• Do: Contact a lawyer before answering if you’re unsure or feel pressured.
• Don’t: Lie or hide documents—those acts can lead to criminal charges.
• Don’t: Delete emails, messages, or files after you learn about an interview.

After the interview, follow up with your lawyer about next steps. If you were cooperative, the matter may close quickly. If not, your lawyer will explain options, including getting documents organised or preparing for further questioning.

Being prepared matters more than being perfect. Keep a clear timeline, get legal help early, answer simply, and protect your rights. That approach gives you the best chance of a smooth outcome.