Federal Sentencing Guidelines are a complex set of rules used to determine a recommended prison sentence relying on both the “offense level” and the “criminal history category.” Although these guidelines are now advisory rather than mandatory, judges continue to give them significant weight. A skilled criminal defense attorney can assess the specifics of your case and estimate the applicable guideline range. Some charges also involve mandatory minimum sentences. It’s important to contact a federal criminal defense attorney as early as possible.

A misdemeanor is a less serious crime, generally punishable by up to one year in jail. A felony is a serious crime punishable by more than one year in state or federal prison. Felonies also carry significant long-term collateral consequences.