A Strong Advocate for Clients in the Federal Sentencing Process
In some criminal cases, no matter the skill of the defense lawyer, clients will face some form of sentencing hearing. A sentencing hearing can follow a contested trial loss or a negotiated plea agreement. If the case against you is strong and there is no way to suppress the evidence on constitutional or evidentiary grounds, your lawyer must be ready to switch gears and argue for the most favorable possible sentence in your case. If you are up against federal charges, your lawyer must be fully aware of the many variables in the sentencing process. The law firm of Raivio, Kohlmetz & Steen, P.C., strongly advocates for individuals in the sentencing process.
Our lawyers understand that while advocating for clients in the sentencing process is a last resort, such advocacy can and does have a tremendous impact on the sentence imposed by the judge. Effective sentencing advocacy can also improve the circumstances under which a convicted person serves that sentence. Before your case gets to this point, we will explore every reasonable option in your defense. Whether you eventually decide to go to trial or to negotiate a plea offer, effective sentencing advocacy begins at the earliest stages of the representation.
As a testament to our law firm's standing in the legal community, we are regularly asked by other defense lawyers to aid in sentencing hearings for their clients.
In federal court, sentencing decisions begin with the United States Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines, while no longer mandatory, provide a baseline for the calculation of potential sentences as well as providing starting points for negotiations or sentencing requests. Defendants facing federal sentences can receive what are known as "downward departures" or "downward variances" under certain circumstances. These circumstances can include having a minor or minimal role in the offense, physical or mental conditions, unusual or aberrant behavior, addiction, post-offense rehabilitation etc. The list is only limited by the defense attorney's skill and creativity.
Cooperation with the government can also lead to a substantial reduction in federal sentences. However, cooperation with the government involves its own set of complicated rules, procedures and pitfalls. Cooperating with the government is not a decision that can be taken lightly. If your case qualifies for a downward departure or variance, you can be sure we will argue forcefully to the judge and prosecution on your behalf.
Many federal charges are subject to mandatory minimum sentences. There are a number of avenues we can explore to challenge the imposition of a mandatory minimum sentence.
Contact the Portland Sentencing Hearing Attorneys of Raivio, Kohlmetz & Steen, P.C.
Our law firm is committed to providing the best possible representation and client service in every case. We are also committed to discretion and protecting our clients' privacy to the greatest extent possible. Call our law firm toll-free at 1-888-311-2016 or send us an e-mail to schedule your free initial consultation.
