Federal Sentencing Guidelines

What Penalties Might I Face in Denver?

When a person has been convicted of a crime in federal court, the judge must consult the United States Sentencing Guidelines when fashioning the sentence. These sentencing guidelines can be extremely harsh and the judge must use them as a baseline for the sentence to be imposed. However, because the United States Supreme Court decided the sentencing guidelines are now advisory only and no longer mandatory, it has opened the door for a defendant to argue for a more favorable sentence than what the sentencing guidelines would dictate.

A federal judge must impose "a sentence sufficient, but not greater than necessary, to comply" with the factors outlined in Title 18 U.S.C. §3553. It is through this statute that the defendant is now capable of providing the Court with favorable information and can seek a sentence of something other than what is advised by the federal sentencing guidelines.

A Denver Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Understands the Process

The Law Offices of David L. Owen, Jr., P.C., has represented thousands of defendants in federal court and knows the sentencing procedures and how to obtain a favorable result for the client. If you are charged in federal court, you need this kind of experience to help you through this ordeal. However, you must begin this process immediately after being charged. Do not hesitate, call me immediately. Having an attorney experienced in federal criminal defense on your side can make all of the difference in the sentence imposed.