Sentencing Guidelines — Federal Criminal Law Guide

Reviewed by The Legal Researcher, Former U.S. Federal Prosecutor

Sentencing Guidelines

This page provides a plain-English overview of sentencing guidelines in the federal criminal justice system. Understanding the legal framework is the first step toward making informed decisions about your case.

What You Need to Know

Federal law governing sentencing guidelines is complex, with statutes, case law, and sentencing guidelines all playing a role. The specific application depends on the facts of the case, the federal district where charges are filed, and the defendant's criminal history.

Key Considerations

• The specific statute and its elements that the government must prove
• Potential sentencing exposure under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines
• Available defenses and motion practice
• Collateral consequences of a federal conviction
• Appeal rights and post-conviction remedies

The Importance of Federal Counsel

Federal cases require attorneys who regularly practice in federal court. The Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Federal Rules of Evidence, and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines create a framework unlike state court. An experienced federal criminal defense attorney understands these differences and how to use them to the client's advantage.