Suppose you've been convicted of a federal criminal offense and are serving prison time. In that case, you might be eligible for a reduction in your sentence due to recent updates to the federal sentencing guidelines. These changes offer significant relief for certain offenders and could mean early release for individuals who qualify.
Recent Changes to Federal Sentencing Guidelines
In April of this year, the Sentencing Guideline Commission introduced key amendments to Congress, revising two provisions related to criminal history. One of the most impactful changes is the introduction of a two-level downward adjustment for "zero-point offenders"—individuals who had no prior criminal history points before their conviction.
This change can reduce a convicted individual’s sentence significantly, as lower offense levels generally result in shorter sentences. Importantly, these changes have retroactive application, meaning that even if you were convicted years ago, you could still benefit from this adjustment. Beginning in February 2024, federal district courts have the authority to grant sentence reductions based on these amendments.
Who Qualifies for Sentence Reduction?
These recent changes to federal sentencing guidelines offer an opportunity for reduced sentences for many convicted individuals. The critical factor for eligibility is whether the individual qualifies as a "zero-point offender." This means the offender had no criminal history points before their current conviction. The amendments could benefit a wide range of individuals, particularly those with minimal or no prior criminal record.
Navigating the federal court system can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you or a loved one believes this applies to your case, it’s crucial to act quickly.
Contact Our Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you believe you may qualify for a sentence reduction, consult with an experienced attorney at Meshbesher & Associates, P.A. who understands the recent federal sentencing updates. Our Minneapolis criminal defense team is prepared to evaluate your case, help submit a request for sentence reduction, and guide you through the legal process.
Call Meshbesher & Associates, P.A. at (612) 200-1526 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your options for sentence reduction.