Criminal Defense Lawyers

Federal Sentencing Guidelines

This is Not The End of the Road

If you or someone you love has received a guilty verdict, you may be of the belief that your fight for justice has come to the end of the road, but this is not so. The fact is you’re just beginning the battle for your freedom, and you’ll need an excellent federal attorney who understands the federal sentencing guidelines working on your behalf to make sure that you have the best shot at achieving your desired outcome, and to help you understand your legal options throughout the sentencing process. This phase of your case can feel confusing and overwhelming, but your lawyer will explain every step so you have the power to make informed decisions that will positively impact your future. If you are unsatisfied with the performance of your trial attorney, then you should take this opportunity to secure new representation and start working on your strategy for the next phase of your case. In the sentencing phase, the actual penalties for an offense will be determined.  This can be one of the most critical phases of a case. Don’t let the fact that you were convicted discourage you. A good lawyer could help you turn things around even at this stage.

What Are the United States Sentencing Guidelines?

The sentence you get should never be decided at random. The judge that hears your case is required to closely follow the federal sentencing guidelines in determining your punishment, barring extreme circumstances that may surround your particular case. The guidelines take several key factors into account, including the severity of the crime and the defendant’s criminal record.

US Sentencing Guidelines: The Severity of the Crime

For each criminal offense, there is a lowest level sentence that rises and falls depending on the details of your case. Adjustments are made with respect to the victim involved, your part in the crime, any obstruction of justice, and your acceptance of responsibility. Your attorney will carry you through the details and search for ways to help you receive the best result available.

US Sentencing Guidelines: Criminal History

Once the base level is established, your criminal record will be taken into account. Six categories of criminal history exist, the first being little to no criminal history and the sixth being an extensive record. Each increasing level of history will further enhance your sentence.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Federal Sentencing Guidelines Used to Determine Your Final Sentence

The calculation of your sentence range involves adding the base level and subtracting or adding, depending on offense, the characteristics and your criminal history. When the judge arrives at the range within which your sentence must fall, he or she will then determine what exactly your punishment should be.  The judge is also responsible for explaining how he or she reached that conclusion in writing. While judges are obligated to do these calculations, they are not technically obligated to adhere to the guidelines. Because the guidelines are merely advisory, having a seasoned defense attorney fighting on your behalf is extremely important. He or she could potentially convince the judge that you should get a lesser punishment, making it easier for you to live a better life after a criminal conviction. In addition, a skilled lawyer can help you challenge instances in which a judge strays too far from the sentencing guidelines.