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15 Second Video, Your Chance At a Reduced Sentence

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Preparation Changes Outcomes

When it comes to sentencing, preparation isn’t optional — it’s everything. The defendants who achieve the best results are the ones who take ownership, prepare early, and present their story with honesty and credibility.

Based on interviews with federal judges nationwide, here’s what makes a difference:

    1. Participate in Your Defense — Stay informed, engaged, and proactive. Judges notice defendants who take their case seriously.

    2. Make a Great First Impression — Your Presentence Interview Can Shape the outcome. We’ll help you prepare to speak with confidence and sincerity.

    3. Tell Your Story — Every case has a human story. We’ll help you share what happened in your life in a way that allows the court to understand, not excuse.

    4. Express Genuine Remorse — Judges respond to authenticity. Taking full responsibility — while showing empathy for your victims — builds trust.

Don’t leave your future to chance. The proper preparation can change how your judge sees you — and change the outcome of your case.

[Start Preparing Today]

This video shares my personal experience and explains why finding the right attorney is crucial. Even in a life-changing situation, preparation and understanding the process can lead to a better outcome.

There Are No Guarantees — But Preparation Makes a Difference

While no one can promise the outcome of a case, careful preparation can help your legal team present your story effectively.

Key Steps You Can Take:

    • Engage Fully with Your Legal Team: Be active in your defense and provide all relevant information.
    • Draft a Personal Narrative and Release Plan: Write honestly, thoughtfully, and from the heart.
    • Organize and Review Your Materials: Ensure everything is clear, complete, and error-free.
    • Collect Strong Character References: Request letters from people who truly know you, then select the ten strongest. These letters should reflect your character, not advocate for a specific sentence.
    • Submit Everything in a Single File: Providing a complete, organized packet to your attorney ensures nothing is overlooked.

Preparation demonstrates responsibility, sincerity, and respect for the process — qualities that can positively influence how your case is presented.

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Take Control of Your Future: Prepare Your Presentence Report (PSR)

Do you really know what goes into your Presentence Report (PSR)? Every detail you provide can directly influence your sentence—and ultimately, your life. Don’t leave it to chance. Gather your information and present it to your probation officer 1–2 weeks before your interview.

This is your opportunity to shape your story. After your interview, your probation officer—the most important person in this process—will compile your PSR based on what you provide. Your judge will rely on this report when determining your sentence.

Be proactive. Be thorough. Make sure your PSR accurately reflects your life, your efforts, and your future. Your preparation today can make a real difference tomorrow.

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE WHAT TO DO FIRST, START WITH A FREE CONSULTATION FOR YOU OR A LOVED ONE. THIS IS MY PERSONAL CELL (240.888.7778), AND I ANSWER AND RETURN ALL CALLS.

Be Prepared — Make Your Voice Heard

Bring a complete, organized packet to your presentence interview or court appearance:

    • Biographical backgrounds — work, education, community involvement.
    • Personal ID — government ID, Social Security card, proof of residence.
    • Personal narrative — your story, responsibility, and growth.
    • Release plan — housing, employment, and treatment plans.
    • Allocution — a brief, sincere statement to the judge.
    • Character reference letters — up to 10 strong letters from people who know you well.

Tip: Keep it neat, concise, and evidence-based — judges notice professionalism.

PSI PREPARATION AND YOUR SELF-SURRENDER

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UNDERSTAND THESE TERMS

1. Pattern Score

    • A Pattern Score is an internal BOP (Bureau of Prisons) risk/needs score used to assess the likelihood of recidivism or other risks while incarcerated.
    • It can influence placement, program eligibility, and security level.

2. SPARC-13

    • Stands for Statistical Prediction of Recidivism and Community Adjustment (13 factors).
    • This is a tool used to predict recidivism risk and assess programming needs.
    • Understanding your SPARC-13 helps you identify areas to focus on in rehabilitation programs.

3. Good Time Credits

    • Federal inmates can earn up to 54 days per year of good conduct time if they follow rules and participate in programs.
    • Good time credits reduce your time served but are separate from other earned time programs like FSA credits.

4. Eligibility Requirements of the First Step Act (FSA)

    • The First Step Act enables inmates to earn time credits for participating in approved programs that reduce recidivism.

You Can Influence Your Eligibility

Your eligibility isn’t set in stone—it depends on several key factors you can work to improve:

    • The type of offense and how you take responsibility for it
    • Your security level and conduct while in custody
    • Your custody status and willingness to follow institutional rules
    • Completion of specific programs that show rehabilitation, growth, and readiness for release

By staying proactive, completing programs, and maintaining a positive record, you increase your chances for early release opportunities and a smoother transition home.

5. Earned Time Credits / FSA Credits

Take Control of Your Release
Every productive step you take counts. By completing recidivism-reducing programs or engaging in positive, productive activities, you can earn credits that:

    • Shorten your prison time
    • Open the door to home confinement sooner.
    • Move you faster to a community corrections center

Your actions today shape your freedom tomorrow. Stay focused, stay committed, and keep moving toward the life you want.

6. Financial Responsibility Program (FRP)

Financial Responsibility Program (FRP)

Federal inmates may be required to participate in the FRP, which helps ensure the timely payment of:

    • Court-ordered fines
    • Restitution
    • Child support obligations

Participation in the FRP can also influence eligibility for certain programs and incentives, making it an important part of your path toward a positive correctional experience.

7. Criminogenic Risk Factors

Understanding Your Risk Factors
Certain personal behaviors or life circumstances can increase the likelihood of reoffending. Common examples include:

    • Substance use or abuse
    • Difficulty managing anger or impulsivity
    • Limited education or vocational skills
    • Weak connections with family or community

By identifying and addressing these factors, you can improve your risk profile, enhance your pattern score, and increase eligibility for programs that support your success.

8. RDAP Eligibility

Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) is a 9 to 12-month intensive treatment program for inmates with substance use disorders.

Benefits include:

    • Up to 12 months off your sentence (if eligible)
    • Priority for transitional placements

Not all inmates are eligible; requirements include a confirmed substance use history and completion of pre-screening.

9. Second Chance Act

Supporting Your Successful Reentry
We provide resources to help you transition back into the community, including:

    • Educational and Vocational Programs – Build skills for career and personal growth.
    • Mentoring and Transitional Services – Guidance to navigate life after incarceration.
    • Community-Based Programs – Designed to reduce recidivism and support long-term success.

Being familiar with these resources enables you to plan ahead and make the most of the support available for a smoother reentry.

10. Compassionate Release & FSA Options

Compassionate Release

Compassionate release allows certain inmates to be considered for early release due to:

    • Terminal illness
    • Severe medical conditions
    • Extraordinary family circumstances (e.g., death or incapacitation of a caregiver)

The First Step Act expanded these options, making it easier to request release and ensuring earned time credits are factored into the decision.

💡 Tip: Understanding each of these areas lets you take control of your sentence, participate fully in programs, and maximize your chances for early release or a smooth transition back into the community.

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Second Look Act: Your Chance to Reset

The law now gives you a fresh shot. The Second Look Act lets courts reconsider your sentence based on today’s facts—not just what happened years ago. Whether it’s changed laws, mistakes at your original trial, or extraordinary life circumstances, you could qualify for a fairer outcome.

Take Control of Your Case

Don’t wait. Use the BOP’s Administrative Remedy process (BP-9 to BP-11) or a §2241 petition to start moving your case forward. Your case manager, counselor, unit team, and warden can all help open doors to early release—but only if you take the first step.

Stay Ahead, Stay Informed

Courts are adapting to changes like COVID-19, but your proactive actions are what make the real difference. The more prepared you are, the stronger your chance for a second look.

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Take Control of Your Story: Preparing for Your Presentence Interview

Preparing for Your Presentence Interview: Own Your Story, Shape Your Future

Your Presentence Interview is one of the most important moments in your case — it’s where you step out of the paperwork and let the court see you as a person, not just a file.

To make a real impact, be fully prepared with:

    • Your Personal Narrative – Share your story with honesty, reflection, and growth.
    • Your Release Plan – Show how you plan to rebuild your life and contribute positively to your community.
    • Your Biographical Background – Include all relevant records, like medical or personal history, to give a complete picture of who you are.
    • Your Personal Identification – Keep all essential documents organized and ready.

This is your moment to take control of your future. Preparation isn’t just helpful — it’s powerful. And it starts with you.

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What to Expect on Day One

Entering custody—primarily through self-surrender—can feel overwhelming. However, understanding what to expect and how to respond ensures that your first day proceeds smoothly and without unnecessary stress.

1. Arrival and Check-In

If you are self-surrendering, plan to arrive at the facility between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Arriving early allows the staff sufficient time to process your intake, complete initial paperwork, and assign housing before the evening count.

2. What to Bring

Bring only the items you have been advised to carry, such as:

    • Government-issued identification
    • Legal documents (sentencing order, judgment, commitment paperwork)
    • Prescription medications, if applicable
    • Any essential medical records or contact information as instructed

Personal items beyond these will not be permitted and may be mailed home or stored.

3. Intake and Processing

Upon arrival, you will complete several standard intake forms and provide personal, medical, and background information. You may also undergo a medical screening and a property inventory. If you have followed your preparation plan, you will already know how to answer intake questions clearly and appropriately.

4. Temporary Quarantine or Isolation

It is not uncommon for new arrivals to be placed temporarily in isolation or quarantine for observation or medical clearance. This is a routine administrative step, not a disciplinary measure. In most cases, you will be informed ahead of this procedure and the expected duration.

5. Moving Forward with Confidence

Your preparation ensures that nothing on day one will come as a surprise. You understand what documents to bring, how to communicate respectfully with staff, and how to respond to each step of the intake process. From now on, your focus should be on following your release plan and maintaining consistency in conduct and communication.

Disappointment and Frustration Or Was All of This a Surprise?

Based on everything we’ve discussed, our goal is to work toward an early release. There are no promises, but there is a plan. Along the way, you might feel frustrated or disappointed—that’s normal. What matters most is how you handle it. You can’t control every outcome, but you can control your attitude, your effort, and how you move forward.

This video explains how you can work or earn your way toward freedom — using Elizabeth Holmes as a real-world example of what’s possible when you stay proactive, focused, and committed to change.