Some cases do indeed result in a plea. However, if this happens in the aftermath of a target letter and you are represented by an attorney who understands how the system works and how to utilize the system to your advantage, one way to resolve federal cases is to waive an indictment. The general rule is that all felonies must be presented to a grand jury to authorize an indictment (formal charges). The exception is that your attorney will ask for a “plea to an information.” This way you agree to waive the grand jury process and at the same time already work out a favorable outcome.