"Lawyers at mega-firm Perkins Coie are warning polluter clients that "over the next few months" they "should anticipate increasing federal environmental enforcement. We have already seen increasing numbers of federal and state criminal investigations," the firm's environmental group said in a May 27 e-mail ominously titled: "The Knock at the Door: Are You Ready?"

[...]

"In the e-mail, Perkins Coie also notes that "the press will be looking for stories on environmental concerns. Are you ready if a reporter, agency official or officer with a warrant shows up at your door?" One thing is certain, the firm adds, "no matter who it is -- you have very little time."

"And the advice offered is quite sound. For example: "Write down and memorize important responses" to avoid misunderstanding, misquotation or a garbled message.

[...]

"The rules are pretty straightforward: "Do not obstruct, but also do not freely convey information," the lawyers advise, and "take detailed notes of documents taken." (Granted, hard to do when you've "assumed the position," spread-eagled against the wall, but they're right that you should try.)