Criminal Sentencings in Wisconsin

Looking at maybe going to jail in Wisconsin?  Sometimes there’s no way to actually win the case and all you can do is try to minimize the damage. Why do some lawyers’ clients do better than others when the judgment day rolls around? Here’s some tips.

First, know your audience. Judges have blind spots and the good lawyers know how to construct a sentencing argument that works around those idiosyncrasies.

Second, use the time between arrest and sentencing constructively. If you have alcohol or drug issues, get into treatment. A letter from a qualified therapist documenting your serious efforts at rehabilitation can make a huge difference at sentencing. Get a job, sign up for school, do some community service work, in short, get busy and stay busy. It’s much more difficult to incarcerate someone who’s working and paying taxes than someone who’s lying around the house playing video games.

Work with your attorney to use your opportunity to address the court. Sometimes what you say to the judge is more important than what your lawyer says. Practice your speech. If you get too nervous, write out what you want to say and read it to the judge.

Finally, relatives and friends can demonstrate your strong ties to the community and your solid family support. Don’t be afraid to ask others to write letters of support. Judges know that defendants with strong family support are much more likely to successfully rehabilitate themselves.

If you’d like more tips, or want to discuss your sentencing issues, we’re at www.reddinsinger.com