Federal Sentencing Guidelines Information

Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Offer Federal Sentencing Guidelines Information for Individuals in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and throughout Michigan

Initially created in 1984, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines essentially offer guidance to judges for sentencing of individuals convicted for federal crimes. At Grabel & Associates, we know that in cases where an individual is charged with a federal offense involving drugs, the punishment is typically far worse than the actual crime the individual is accused of committing. It is critical that you understand the crime you have been arrested for, and the potential penalties you may face if convicted. This is just one reason to consult with an experienced and trusted Michigan drug crimes attorney.

At its most basic, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines allocate base-level sentencing for various federal drug crimes. There are numerous factors, which may result in more severe sentencing, or mitigating factors which may result in a decreased sentence. Some aggravating factors include whether the individual accused has a prior drug conviction, the type and amount of drug involved, whether the individual intended to manufacture, distribute, deliver, or otherwise "traffic" the drugs, where the offense occurred, whether weapons were involved, etc.

Consult With a Michigan Drug Crimes Attorney Who Understands Federal Sentencing Guidelines

When you are charged with a felony drug crime at the federal level, it is imperative that you have the support and guidance of a lawyer who thoroughly understands the federal drug sentencing guidelines. This is essential in order for your lawyer to be able to effectively argue on your behalf, so that should be you found guilty, he or she will have the knowledge and understanding necessary to successfully argue for less severe sentencing.

Federal Penalties for Individuals Convicted on Drug Crimes are Severe

Just as with most states, the Federal government has a schedule of penalties for trafficking drugs. Schedules I, II, III, IV, and V apply to the penalties for drugs other than marijuana, including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, LSD, PCP, and other illegal drugs or substances.

For example, an individual who is convicted on a first offense charge of trafficking 500 to 4,999 grams of cocaine will face 5 to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. These penalties are applicable if no death or serious injury resulted, and the crime involved an individual rather than a drug ring. Penalties become more severe when it is a second offense, or the amount of drug involved is larger.

Contact a Skilled Lawyer Today if You are Facing Federal Drug Charges

The federal sentencing guidelines for those charged with drug crimes are absolutely harsh, to say the least. While judges do have discretion when it comes to whether to depart from these guidelines, there are still limits. Judges must remain within the mandatory minimum and maximum sentencing terms specified by statute. Ultimately, the guidelines are designed to give judges a starting point, so that they can determine what sentencing should be depending on aggravating or mitigating factors.

Individuals facing federal drug charges and the penalties outlined if convicted should consult with the attorneys as Grabel & Associates immediately. We are available to answer your questions, and provide a free case evaluation. Call us any time day or night at 800-342-7896 to speak with our experienced case analyst. We provide unparalleled legal guidance and representation for clients facing federal drug charges.