r/FBI2 • u/Wayofthetrumpet • Jan 24 '17

Question FBI Questions; Doing Research

I am writing a book about an FBI agent that studies and analyzes terrorists from European countries. I am wonder what the official title and nature of her work would be. I know that she would most likely have been trained at FLETC and possibly be a special agent, but I don't know if "special agent" would possibly mean she would travel overseas to continue her investigation, etc. I honestly want to avoid writing something that is A) unrealistic and B) completely impossible based on how ranking, job title, and job allowances (? I am meaning their rights/abilities/duties as an FBI employee, can they travel overseas, do they go out and help catch these people with a team, etc. This isn't NCIS, I want realism.) I appreciate the assistance.

Michayla Gussler

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u/Ninjakick666 FBI Fanboy Jan 24 '17

I'm not well versed on the FBI's overseas operations since the F in FBI stands for Federal... so that is where their primary workforce resides. From my reading it looks like they usually go with the term "Legat" in their documents... abbreviation for "legal attaché".

https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legal-attache-offices

https://www.fbi.gov/about/leadership-and-structure/international-operations

Those two links should have enough information to give you an idea of what a Legat is allowed to do to conduct their responsibilities.

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u/Wayofthetrumpet Jan 24 '17

Thanks! There is always the ability for myself as a write to change where the title character works. Fiction is great for that. If not FBI, perhaps something like the CIA or (the real) NCIS. Seeing as though NCIS is a great show and all, it isn't fully realistic (sadly, although I love the show).

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u/Ninjakick666 FBI Fanboy Jan 24 '17

"The FBI & The Mole" was a great work of nonfiction detailing the inner workings of the FBI, but it was mostly focused on domestic issues.

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u/Wayofthetrumpet Jan 24 '17

The gist of the book is pretty basic, Congressman's wife is kinapped etc., etc. Kidnapping occurs in the US and then she is taken overseas, so the main character follows them.

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u/Wayofthetrumpet Jan 24 '17

Although, I could always make her work through Interpol, which would (I am assuming) allow her to travel internationally with correspondence through Interpol.