Dealing with a criminal case is never fun for anyone, being the defendant being accused of a criminal offense is far less fun. No matter the verdict, innocent or guilty, you may want to avoid jail time at all costs. It is very frightening to put your future and freedom into the hands of complete strangers. While laws vary state to state, there are certain systems in place that opens the door into your life and allow you to show yourself, or the best version of yourself to the judge and jury. This is called a presentence interview. Your pre-sentence can make the difference before serious prison time, jail time, or simple fines and probation. This is the opportunity granted by the judge that allows you to convince the deciding parties that despite the charges put up against you, you are undeserving of the maximum sentence. Probation officers are usually in charge of the interview and this is where you would bring as much character building documentation that you can. This includes:
A copy of your criminal history. This is good if you are a first offender. It shows the court that you are not a habitual lawbreaker.
Your employment status and history. Being able to keep a steady and legal job may show that you are very capable of living a regular lifestyle.
Your educational background. Your lack of education does not deem you guilty, however, showing that you are an educated individual helps proves that you have a good head on your shoulders.
Character witness statements. As mentioned, these people deciding your future do not know you. Having reputable and honest people speak on your character shows that you may not be as “bad” as the offense may make you out to be.
Presentence interviews are something like your “last chance” so it is best to bring only your best to these interviews. The probation officer will also interview the victim of your offense so it is wise to give every document you have that shows your characters not who they think. If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, speak with a Decatur attorney as soon as possible so that you are prepared to show your best self in your presentence interview as well.
Thanks to Andrew R. Lynch, P.C. for their insight into criminal defense and pre-sentencing.
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Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was facing a charge of Reckless Driving for speeding on I66 at midnight. This is considered a Class 1 Misdemeanor in the state of Virginia. Having something like Reckless Driving on your record is on par with having a DUI. This charge also carries a chance for jail time (up to a year). I was incredibly scared because I had never faced such a charge. And looking into Virginia Law, my speed exceeded 90mph, which is quite serious. I retained Dave Albo to help me with this case. Since my record was clean, Dave had advised I do the following before my trial. * Take a DMV Driver's Improvement Course * Take a Behavior Modification Course * Do 100 hours of community service * Print my DMV Record one week before the trial On the day of my trial, Dave got my Reckless Driving charge REDUCED to a regular Speeding charge. This was the absolute best case scenario for me. No criminal record. No jail time. No suspension of license. I did receive 6 demerit points and had to pay a fine of $250 (plus court fees). But that's a slap on the wrist, compared to what I could have been facing. Thank you Dave Albo for helping me through this ordeal!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dave albo it's a fantastic lawyer. He has helped me twice now with great results both times with minor traffic tickets. I would recommend him to anybody including my family. He has great ethics and honesty which is what I look for in a lawyer .Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dave was my attorney recently for a car accident where I needed someone to represent me in court. After exchanging all necessary information he reassured me when the court date came that there wouldn’t be anything to worry about. On the day of court a couple problems arose and Dave was able to rectify them quickly, told me everything I need to say if needed and when it was all over he got my violation reduced significantly. I hope to never go to court again but if I do I will being calling Dave again.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Retaining the services of Mr. Albo for traffic court was probably the best decision I made. He is very responsive to emails, knowledgeable, and punctual. He provided excellent advice that eased the panic of having to go to the court house and stand before a judge. I am very happy with the outcome of my visit to traffic court and highly recommend Dave Albo.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr Albo was very professional and I was pleased with the outcome.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David was incredible to work with from clear communication and next steps. To showing up to traffic court early to walk over all steps, making case in court as experienced/intelligent/well spoken lawyer. Lastly, he even followed after case in writing to confirm the outcome outlining everything that happened in lamen terms (in my case the best outcome we could ask for). I’m so appreciative to David.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely top notch representation. Can't thank Dave enough for his knowledge and expertise.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks to Dave Albo for a fantastic job representing me and ensuring the best possible outcome for my case. I highly recommend him - you will be in good hands for sure. From start to finish he provided expert counsel and kept me well informed. He simply could not have done a better job.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am THRILLED with the outcome of my case, all thanks to Attorney Albo's superb expertise, excellent advice & sharp negotiating skills! I am extremely relieved and grateful; I highly recommend retaining his services. Well beyond worth it!!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dave did a great job representing me for my traffic court infraction! I wanted the best and his name came up as I searched for an attorney. Highly recommend him on all levels including a successful outcome to my case.
