When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.
Hey there! If you’re reading this, you probably heard about the U.S. Sentencing Commission’s recent decision to apply Amendment 821 retroactively. This is a big deal, because it could mean a reduced prison sentence for thousands of people currently incarcerated in the federal system. I know navigating the legal system can be confusing though, so I wanted to write up this guide walking you through the process step-by-step. I’m not a lawyer, but I’ve done a ton of research and talked to some legal experts to figure this all out. Hopefully you find this helpful!
Ok, first things first – what is this Amendment 821 thing? Basically, it’s a change made by the Sentencing Commission to the sentencing guidelines judges use to determine federal prison sentences. Here’s a quick rundown:
This is a really big deal, because it means around 11,500 people currently in federal prison could get their sentences reduced by an average of 14 months [2]!
Now you’re probably wondering – does this apply to me? Here are the basic eligibility criteria:
The best way to know if you qualify is to determine what your sentencing range would have been under the new amendment. If it would be lower, then you may be eligible. I’ll talk more below about how to figure this out.
The amount your sentence could be reduced depends on how much your guideline range changes under Amendment 821. The Commission estimates the average reduction will be 14 months [2]. But it could be more or less than that in your specific case. Here are some factors that impact the amount:
To figure out your potential reduction, you’ll need to recalculate your guideline range under the new amendment. I’ll explain more on that next.
Christine TwomeyJust had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.
Brendan huismanAlex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!
Guerline MenardThanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️
Keisha ParrisBelieve every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
Taïko BeautyI don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!
Anthony WilliamsHey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.
Loveth Okpedo Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experienceAmazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.
divesh patelI can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.
Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviewsFiguring out if you qualify and estimating your potential reduction requires looking at the sentencing guidelines. I know, looking at the guidelines makes most people’s eyes glaze over. But stay with me here – I’ll break it down step-by-step:
This can be complicated, so don’t hesitate to ask your facility’s education staff for help accessing and understanding your PSR. You can also call the federal public defenders office in your state to see if they can assist you.
Okay, so you’ve done the math and determined your sentence could be lowered under the retroactive amendment. Awesome! Now let’s talk about how to actually apply and get your sentence reduced.
The application process involves filing a motion with the sentencing court that originally imposed your sentence. Here are the steps:
The court has discretion in deciding whether to reduce your sentence and by how much. Having an attorney to represent you can be very helpful, especially if the reduction amount is disputed at all. If you can’t afford a lawyer, contact the federal public defender in your state for possible assistance.
One complexity with Amendment 821 is that the Commission said courts can’t actually reduce sentences under it until February 1, 2024 or later [2]. This was to give the courts time to process all the applications. So even if you qualify now, the soonest you could get a reduction is February 2024.
The good news is you can submit your application before then – you just can’t get a reduction order until on or after February 1st. So it’s a good idea to get your motion submitted early, so it’s ready to go when the window opens.
Also keep in mind it may take awhile for the court to review and decide on your motion. Especially since so many people will be applying for reductions, there will likely be delays. So having patience and persistence here pays off.
Applying for a reduction under Amendment 821 might make you eligible for other sentence reductions too:
It’s worth looking into these other options as well if you qualify for an Amendment 821 reduction. Don’t be afraid to explore all avenues for relief!
If you think you may qualify for a sentence reduction under Amendment 821, here are some steps you can take now while waiting for the application window to open in February 2024:
I know this whole process can seem daunting and complex. But with some research and persistence, getting a sentence reduction under Amendment 821 is very possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from legal aid organizations, advocates, or even your facility’s education staff. We’re all rooting for you! Wishing you the very best of luck.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m happy to help explain things more if needed. You got this!
New York, NY 10007
611 S Catalina St #222,
Los Angeles, CA 90005
195 Montague St.
14th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Astoria, NY 11106
© Copyright 2024 – No recipient of content from this site, client or otherwise, should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in the site without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from an attorney licensed in the recipient’s state. The content of this website contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments, verdicts or settlements. Spodek Law Group expressly disclaims all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this site. Any information sent to Spodek Law Group via Internet e-mail or through the Spodek Law Group Web site is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis. The transmission of the Spodek Law Group site, in part or in whole, and/or communication with Spodek Law Group, via Internet e-mail through this site does not constitute or create an attorney-client relationship between Spodek Law Group and any recipients. All visitors to our websites are told that Spodek Law Group may work with affiliate lawyers, also known as Local Counsel, in cities and states across the USA. These affiliated lawyers, Local Counsel, may assist the firm on a case by case basis. They operate their own respective law firms, are independent of the Spodek Law Group, and are not employees/partners/of counsel to the firm. Clients viewing our website should be aware that when viewing our firm’s website, we may include and combine the experience and knowledge of both firms. References to a particular city, or state, in any article on this website does not mean that the firm has a physical office in that state or city. | SEO By DelanceyStreet Legal Notice: The outcomes of past cases do not imply similar results in future cases. (1) The legal practitioners at Spodek Law Group P.C. hold licenses in specific jurisdictions as detailed in their personal profiles. It is important to note that not every attorney featured or mentioned on our website may be able to represent clients in all jurisdictions without the involvement of lawyers who are licensed in the relevant areas; (2) The primary offices of Spodek Law Group P.C. are located in New York. Other locations referenced are designated meeting spaces available by appointment only and do not represent a continuous or established office presence; (3) Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers
