The Essential Guide to FTC Compliance, Investigations, and Enforcement

The FTC has broad-ranging investigation powers, including various forms of compulsory process relating to suspected violations of laws and regulations enforced by the FTC and of possible violations of FTC orders. 15 U.S.C. §§43, 46, 49, 57b-1, FTC Manual Ch. 3, Section .1.2.1. In particular, 15 U.S.C. section 57b-1 outlines the power to issue Civil Investigative Demands (“CIDs”), and 15 U.S.C. section 49 details powers to convene investigative hearings, which may involve subpoenas for witness testimony and for the production of documents relating to any matter under investigation.