June 17 BOP Memo: What It Means for Early Release Under the First Step Act
Michael Santos Introduces the BOP Directive White Collar Advice: “Michael, as you know, the Bureau of Prisons issued another directive on June […]
Why Federal Judges Ignore Apologies—and What Defendants Should Do Instead
When I wrote my judge a letter from federal prison, I didn’t write to say I was sorry. I wrote to show […]
The Truth About Cooperation: What Judges Really Consider at Sentencing
In 2007, I spent nearly a full year working with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This was after my indictment, but before […]
What the SEC Wants to Hear if You Want a Shorter Sentence
Six Months After My Plea, Everything Changed I had already pled guilty. One count of conspiracy to commit fraud. The government knew […]
What You Need to Know About Federal Prison Designation (And Why It Starts Before Sentencing)
If you’re facing a sentencing hearing in federal court, one of the most overlooked—but essential—steps is understanding how the Bureau of Prisons […]
When You Lie to the Feds, You Lose the Only Leverage That Matters
In 2005, I thought I had moved on. I was out of UBS. I had a new life. But the government hadn’t […]
How I Obstructed a Federal Investigation Without Even Knowing It
I Thought I Was Just a Witness When the meeting began, my lawyer and I were told I was just a witness. […]
The Day I Lied to My Lawyer—and Sealed My Prison Term
When the FBI Knocked, I Was Still in Denial April 28, 2005. Three knocks on my door. I open it, and it’s […]
How a Forged Signature Opened the Door to a Federal Investigation
On December 15, 2004, I walked into my branch manager’s office at UBS thinking it was a normal day. It wasn’t. He […]
Montaigne’s Guiding Question Was Simple: How to live?
His answer was never absolute. It came through fragments, habits, observation. He asked: How do we stay present? How do we face […]
Oakdale Federal Prison Camp: Write More Than You Say
When Michael Santos handed me a blank notebook in federal prison, I thought it was a symbolic gesture. It wasn’t. It was […]