Sentencing Scale in DC Federal Embezzlement Cases

A criminal charge on someone’s record might lead to collateral consequences personally, financially, and professionally. Having a criminal record might have a far-reaching impact on a person’s life, potentially affecting their ability to retain meaningful employment or secure housing.

If you were accused of embezzlement — or the withholding of assets — you might benefit from reaching out to an attorney in order to learn about sentencing in DC federal embezzlement cases. A seasoned lawyer could help to explain the potential penalties you face and guide you through the legal process to build a defense against your charges.

The Embezzlement Sentencing Scale

A sentence for DC federal embezzlement is calculated — under the United States Sentencing Guidelines — by the probation officer writing a Pre-Sentence Investigation Report (PSR) for the judge. After a guilty plea or a determination of guilt at trial, a probation officer would write this PSR and is then tasked with calculating sentencing with respect to a particular case.

There are six categories of criminal history in DC, with six being the most severe. Generally, the sentencing guidelines calculation includes a base-offense level, as well as any enhancements or departures from that particular guideline range based on the particular case. After this calculation is complete, both the defense and the government have an opportunity to make objections, comments, or propose additions or deletions.

This is an important process, as this calculation also establishes a person’s criminal history score; prior convictions are identified and assigned points to establish the person’s criminal history. Due to the potential impact of this scale on a person’s life, it might be essential to have a knowledgeable attorney review a PSR on a defendant’s behalf.

Possible Elevations to a Sentence

During the calculation of the sentencing scale, the offense level may potentially be increased if, for example, there was the use of sophisticated means in the act of DC federal embezzlement. The reasoning for an enhancement to a charge is often broad, meaning it might be relatively easy for a prosecutor to apply one to a charge. Nevertheless, it might be important that a defense tries to argue against any potential enhancements, and may, therefore, benefit from the aid of an experienced defense attorney.

Possible Defenses Against Charges of Embezzlement in DC

During DC federal sentencing, it might be important for a defense attorney to put forward evidence — such as expert testimony and letters or testimonials from family, friends, or colleagues — in order to effectively advocate for a lower sentence. Reducing the potential advisory guidelines range, however, requires directly addressing them.

Usually, this involves questioning the loss amount that was calculated. This might be done simply by advocating a lower loss amount, or, when that is not available, a defense attorney might advocate for the judge to adopt a different method of calculation.

How An Attorney Might Help Mitigate Sentencing in DC Federal Embezzlement Cases

Facing a conviction for embezzlement could be a frightening experience, causing you to worry about your future wellbeing and unsure of how to proceed with a defense. If you were accused of or charged with embezzlement, you might benefit from contacting a hardworking attorney to discuss your case.

A steadfast lawyer could help to explain sentencing in DC federal embezzlement cases, as well as advise you on how you might best proceed. For more information about building a defense, retain a legal advocate today.