Criminal Defense Lawyers

Texas Federal Sentencing Guidelines

If you or a loved one is facing federal criminal charges in Texas, one of the most important things to understand is how federal sentencing works. While every case is unique, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines provide a framework that judges use to determine an appropriate sentence. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you know what to expect.

What are the Federal Sentencing Guidelines?

The Federal Sentencing Guidelines were created in the 1980s to promote uniformity and fairness in sentencing across all federal courts.11 The goal was to ensure that defendants convicted of similar crimes received similar sentences, regardless of the judge or location.While the Guidelines are no longer mandatory after the Supreme Court’s ruling in United States v. Booker, judges still must calculate and consider the guideline range when determining a sentence.13 In most cases, sentences fall within the guideline range, but judges do have discretion to impose a sentence above or below that range for good reason.4

How do the Guidelines work?

Okay, bear with me here, because this gets a little complicated. But I’ll walk you through it. The Guidelines use a sentencing table that takes into account two main factors:15

1. The seriousness of the offense (the “offense level”)
2. The defendant’s criminal history (the “criminal history category”)

Offense Level

The offense level ranges from 1 to 43, with 43 being the most serious.11 The base offense level is determined by the crime itself. Then, the judge adjusts that level up or down based on specific offense characteristics, victim-related adjustments, the defendant’s role, obstruction of justice, multiple counts, and acceptance of responsibility.4For example, the base offense level for drug trafficking depends on the type and quantity of drugs involved:16

• 5-49 grams pure meth = Level 24
• 50-499 grams pure meth = Level 30
• 500 grams or more pure meth = Level 36

From there, levels can be added for things like possession of a dangerous weapon (+2), using violence (+2), or involving a minor in the crime (+4). Levels can be subtracted for having a minor role (-2) or accepting responsibility (-2 or -3).

Criminal History Category

A defendant’s prior convictions determine their criminal history category, from I (little to no criminal history) to VI (significant criminal history).15 Points are assigned for each prior sentence of imprisonment, with longer sentences getting more points. The judge totals the points to arrive at the criminal history category.

The Sentencing Table

Once the offense level and criminal history category are calculated, the judge refers to the sentencing table to find the guideline range, expressed in months of imprisonment.15 The table has 43 offense levels going down the left side and 6 criminal history categories going across the top. The range is found where the offense level and criminal history category intersect.For instance, an offense level of 22 and criminal history category of III yields a guideline range of 51-63 months in prison. Each range spans 12 months or 25%, whichever is greater.11The judge then selects a sentence within that guideline range, unless they find a reason to depart upward or downward from the range.4 Judges must explain in writing any departures from the guideline range.

Mandatory Minimums for Federal Drug Crimes

Now, this is where things can get really harsh, especially for drug offenses. Congress has set mandatory minimum sentences for many drug crimes, which the Guidelines incorporate.16 What that means is that the judge must impose at least the mandatory minimum term of imprisonment, regardless of the guideline range.For example, a first-time offender convicted of trafficking 50 grams or more of meth is looking at a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.16 It doesn’t matter if their guideline range would be lower. The judge’s hands are tied.Some other common mandatory minimums for federal drug crimes:

• Heroin (100-999 grams mixture) = 5 year minimum
• Cocaine (500-4999 grams mixture) = 5 year minimum
• Crack (28-279 grams mixture) = 5 year minimum
• Marijuana (100-999 kilos) = 5 year minimum

And if the defendant has one or more prior drug convictions, the mandatory minimums may double or even mandate life in prison.16 It’s a tough, tough system if you’re caught up in it.

Aggravating and Mitigating Factors

While judges must impose any applicable mandatory minimums, they do have more discretion in applying other aggravating and mitigating factors to arrive at a final sentence, even if it’s outside the guideline range.4Some aggravating factors that may increase a sentence:

• Using or threatening violence
• Possessing a dangerous weapon
• Obstructing justice
• Having a leadership role in the crime
• Committing the crime while on probation or supervised release

Some mitigating factors that may decrease a sentence:

• Little to no criminal history
• Playing a minor role in the crime
• Cooperating with authorities
• Accepting responsibility
• Having significant family responsibilities
• Suffering from diminished mental capacity

The judge weighs all of these considerations, along with the guideline range, the purposes of sentencing (punishment, deterrence, incapacitation, rehabilitation), and any other relevant information to craft an appropriate sentence for the individual defendant.4

Zones of the Sentencing Table

One last thing to know – the sentencing table is divided into four zones, A through D.17 The zone determines whether the judge can impose probation or other alternatives to prison.

• Zone A (offense levels 1-8): prison is not required; probation is possible
• Zone B (levels 9-11): at least one month in prison required, but half the sentence can be alternative confinement like home detention
• Zone C (levels 12-13): at least half the sentence must be in prison
• Zone D (levels 14-43): the entire sentence must be in prison

So as you can see, once you get into Zone D, prison is the only option under the Guidelines. And most drug trafficking offenses fall into Zone D, even for first-time offenders.16

The Importance of Plea Bargaining

With the harsh mandatory minimums and sentencing guidelines in the federal system, over 95% of defendants end up pleading guilty rather than going to trial.13 Prosecutors have a lot of leverage to extract pleas by threatening to bring charges carrying long mandatory sentences if the defendant doesn’t accept a deal.This is why having a skilled and experienced federal criminal defense lawyer is so critical. Your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor to try to avoid mandatory minimums, limit relevant conduct, and argue for favorable guideline calculations. Effective plea bargaining can make a huge difference in your ultimate sentence.

Navigating the Federal Sentencing Process

I know this is a lot of complex information to digest. Facing federal criminal charges is beyond stressful, and the sentencing process can feel overwhelming. But please know that you don’t have to navigate this alone.If you or a loved one is dealing with federal charges in Texas, your best move is to consult with a reputable federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Look for a lawyer who has substantial experience in federal court and knows the ins and outs of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Be upfront with them about your case and your concerns so they can give you an honest assessment and plan of action.While no outcome can be guaranteed, having a knowledgeable advocate in your corner to fight for the best possible resolution can make all the difference. So don’t delay – seek out quality legal counsel right away. The earlier your lawyer gets involved, the more they may be able to do to positively impact your case.I hope this article has helped demystify the federal sentencing process a bit. It’s not an easy road, but accurate information and skilled guidance can be your strongest assets as you navigate the system. Wishing you all the best moving forward.