The Justice Department recently announced new clemency guidelines which could make it possible for non-violent, low-level drug offenders, who are currently serving federal prison time, to apply for and attain an early release. These guidelines are a key part of the government's effort to reduce the prison population and take strides towards eliminating the extensive minimum sentences which were mandatory back in the 1980s. Those individuals seeking release can submit an application for clemency providing they meet the specific criteria as laid out by the new initiative. To be eligible you or your loved one must:
- Be serving a federal sentence that does not exceed the current mandatory sentence for the same crime.
- Be a non-violent offender who has only committed low-level drug crimes and must not have any " significant ties to large scale criminal organizations, gangs or cartels."
- Have served no less than 10 years of your original sentence.
- Not have a lengthy or substantial criminal history.
- Have demonstrated good behavior and conduct while in prison.
- Not have a history of violence either prior to or during the course of your prison sentence.
If you or a loved one is currently serving federal prison time on a non-violent drug offense, a criminal defense attorney at Stornello Law Firm, P.C. could assist you to pursue an early release under these newly-released guidelines. As criminal defense attorneys, we are zealous advocates for the rights of our clients, and we are committed to doing everything we can to see our clients are treated fairly. We do not believe people should receive excessive punishment for minor criminal offenses. Having more than 25 years of combined legal experience and with a former prosecutor on our legal team, we are more than qualified to represent your interests and defend your rights. If you need assistance fighting criminal charges, or you want to find out whether a loved one may be eligible to apply for an early release under the new clemency guidelines, we urge you to contact our firm and speak with one of our Sugar Land criminal defense attorneys today.