Let’s master the federal system!
Our weekly webinar focused on practical steps to prepare for sentencing, federal prison and your post-conviction journey. We stressed creating assets with the right messaging to influence government stakeholders.
Key Insights:
Building Your Narrative:A participant shared how he spent over 200 hours crafting a personal narrative that reflected remorse, accountability, and plans for restitution. His probation officer called it “the best letter I’ve ever read.”
Action: Writing a detailed and authentic narrative, informed by interviews with judges, can make a significant impact during sentencing. Learn how to write effective character letters in our free Character Letters Course.
Influencing Probation Officers:
Judges rely heavily on the probation report, which starts with the Pre-Sentence Interview (PSI). Defendants must prepare for these interactions to ensure their efforts are accurately represented.
Action: Learn how to prepare for the PSI in our free Probation Course to improve sentencing recommendations.
The Importance of Documentation:
Judges and probation officers need to see evidence of progress. Whether it’s job applications, volunteer work, or restitution payments, document everything. A timeline of your actions speaks louder than intentions.
Action: Build a compelling Release Plan using our free course to show stakeholders your commitment to growth and reentry.
Proactive Steps Before Sentencing:
Use the time before sentencing to create a record of rehabilitation and advocacy. For example, volunteering, working, and building meaningful relationships can influence decisions about your sentence, release, or probation terms.
Action: Enroll in our RDAP Course to explore sentence-reduction options and develop the skills you’ll need to qualify for and succeed in the program.
Handling Resistance from Lawyers and Stakeholders:
Some lawyers resist new strategies like presenting personal narratives to probation officers. We discussed strategies to navigate this resistance.
Action: Take control of your case. Our Pro Se Motions Course walks you through filing federal motions when legal resources are limited.
Life After Sentencing:
Challenges with case managers, probation officers, and halfway house staff are common. Participants shared how continued advocacy and a strong release plan helped them gain early release, travel permissions, and more liberty.
Action: Prepare now for reentry with our free Release Plan Course, which includes templates and examples.
Closing Advice:
Whether you’re facing investigation, preparing for sentencing, or planning for release, creating a clear record of progress and accountability is essential to get the best outcome possible. These steps aren’t just about your case—they’re about preparing for the coming years of your life.
Free Resources:
We’ve made six courses available at no cost to help you prepare for every stage:
- Government Investigations Course: Protect yourself during investigations.
- Probation Course: Prepare for the Pre-Sentence Interview.
- RDAP Course: Qualify for sentence reduction.
- Character Letters Course: Write impactful letters.
- Release Plan Course: Build a plan for reentry.
- Pro Se Motions Course: File federal motions confidently.
Click here to register for our next webinar.
Best,
Justin Paperny
