Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

There is no set time limit on how long federal authorities can watch someone. Surveillance continues as long as the investigation is active and the government has legal grounds to keep monitoring. The length depends on the type of case, the kind of surveillance, and whether a judge keeps approving it.

How Federal Surveillance Works

Federal agencies use different types of surveillance for criminal and national security cases. Each type has its own time frame and renewal process.

• Wiretaps – Usually last 30 days at a time and require a judge to renew them.
• Electronic monitoring – Can continue for months if the court keeps approving it.
• FISA surveillance – Used in national security cases, lasting up to 90 or 120 days per order, but often renewed repeatedly.
• Physical surveillance – Following or watching suspects in public can continue without a specific time limit.

When Surveillance Ends

Federal monitoring usually ends when the investigation concludes, evidence runs out, or the court order expires without renewal. If the feds still have probable cause, they can request new authorization and keep watching legally.

• Investigation closed – Monitoring stops once charges are filed or dropped.
• No more justification – Surveillance must end if probable cause disappears.
• Warrant expires – Agents must renew orders to continue wiretaps or searches.

Your Legal Rights

Federal surveillance is limited by the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches. You have the right to challenge illegal surveillance or question how evidence was gathered in court. If you suspect you are being monitored, contact an attorney who handles federal or privacy-related cases.

The feds can legally watch you for as long as their investigation justifies it. There is no fixed maximum duration, and court-approved orders can be renewed for months or even years if the case remains active and lawful.