Incriminating evidence in documents can generally be compelled if

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Incriminating evidence in documents can generally be compelled if it is subject to a statute that specifically requires the reporting of criminal activity. For example, banks are required to report suspicious financial transactions to the authorities. However, if the evidence is protected by the Fifth Amendment's right against self-incrimination, it cannot be compelled. Federal income tax reports may contain incriminating evidence, but they are protected by the Fifth Amendment's privilege against self-incrimination, so they cannot be compelled. Similarly, the mere fact that a letter goes through the U.S. post office does not make its contents subject to compelled disclosure.

Incriminating Evidence in Documents Can Generally Be Compelled If