How Do The Federal Sentencing Guidelines Work In Fraud Cases?

If you’ve received a guilty verdict in your federal criminal case, you’re probably wondering what is next. Most commonly, defendants wrongfully assume that this is the end of their legal battle, but this is not true. You still have to appear before the judge for sentencing, or you have to file a notice of appeal if you believe legal error had a significant impact on the outcome of your case. You’ll need the help of a skilled federal criminal defense attorney to navigate this important stage. If you’re extremely dissatisfied with the performance of your trial attorney, you may want to consider hiring a new and more experienced lawyer.

The federal sentencing guidelines for fraud are harsh, and you’ll want a knowledgeable federal attorney to ensure you receive the most favorable sentence available. If you’re looking for one of Michigan’s leading defense firms to help put you on track to receiving your desired results in your federal criminal case, contact Grabel & Associates now. We are willing to step in at any stage and will do the necessary research so we can aggressively fight for you.

What Are The Federal Fraud Sentencing Guidelines?

After an individual is convicted of a federal offense, he or she will need to appear before the same judge that oversaw the trial to receive their sentence. This stage of a federal criminal case is often nerve-wracking for defendants, because it means they will find out what punishment they are facing. This information has a significant impact on the course of a person’s future and their family, which is why it’s important to have the help of a seasoned defense attorney. If you’ve been convicted of fraud and are facing sentencing, reach out to Grabel & Associates. We’ll help you get set up to receive the most favorable sentence available, lessening the negative impact a fraud conviction may have on your life.

When a judge is deciding on what sentence you should receive for your offense, he or she will consider the guidelines set in place by the government. These guidelines establish a range for the punishment you will receive. They typically take two additional things into consideration: the severity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history. Imagine these two categories on the x and y axis of a chart. If you’ve never committed a crime and the severity of your fraud offense was very low, you will receive a relatively favorable sentence. If you have a criminal record and the severity of your fraud offense was very high, you’ll most likely receive a much harsher punishment.

The Sentencing Guidelines in Fraud Cases

Fraud sentencing guidelines are quite severe and punishments often include jail time. The government was concerned that individuals who committed fraud were getting off too easy, so they ramped up the punishments to an unreasonably high level. Fortunately, some judges are recognizing this error and taking it into consideration for the fraud cases they hear. The guidelines for sentencing in a fraud case primarily look at the loss amount and the characteristics of the crime. The loss amount is not necessarily the amount of money you made or others loss, but the potential number. This is called “reasonably foreseeable loss.” Other characteristics of your offense may include the number of victims, and if you were in a position of power or trust that you abused to your benefit, and if you have a criminal record. The judge will look at all of these details to come up with a sentence that he or she deems fit for your crime.

Our Approach to Federal Criminal Defense for Fraud Cases

We understand the importance of the sentencing portion of your case and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive a just outcome. Our team has over 15 years of experience in Michigan law and along with our licensed federal attorneys, will remain dedicated to your wellbeing. We will do the necessary research, reviewing every detail of your case and the relevant laws, to give you the best shot at achieving your desired results. When you’re facing fraud charges or a conviction, your future is on the line. It’s important to have a skilled attorney you can trust fighting for you. Call us now to get connected with one of Michigan’s leading defense attorneys. We are available to step in at any stage of your case and will aggressively fight for you.

Contact Us for 24/7 Criminal Defense in Michigan

A member of our team is available 24/7 by phone or via our online contact form to provide you with a free initial case consultation. Call 1-800-342-7896 toll-free to get on track to receiving a favorable sentence in your fraud case.