I had an opportunity this week to catch up with 2 friends who have both recently been released from Federal Prison. One friend was sentenced to 5 years, the other 35 months. I asked them what the journey was like leading up to sentencing. I asked them about how their attorney worked with them and how he prepared them for the PSI-Presentencing Interview. Both of my friends had the same answer, there was no preparation. This sometimes is outside the scope of what an attorney can do. They are often good at negotiating plea deals and working with prosecutors to convince them you should get a lower sentence, all good things to have in your favor. When it comes to things like a PSI you need to be prepared as it’s the biggest interview of your life, and your freedom is at stake. One of the things that can be discussed in the PSI is your substance abuse history. If you have had a substance abuse problem within 12 months of being indicted, you are eligible for RDAP – Residential Drug and Alcohol Program. By completing this program you may have your sentence reduced up to 12 months and be eligible to serve 6 months in a halfway house. The only way you can be eligible for RDAP is to have your substance abuse disclosed in your PSI. Both of my friends knew little about RDAP. One was advised not to apply for the program, the other did not want to disclose his drinking as he was concerned the probation officer would look down on him. Based on both of their substance abuse histories they were both eligible for sentence reductions that could have got them home much earlier.
If I can assist you in preparing for your PSI please call me today to discuss how you can be prepared for the most important interview of your life.
Coleman Flaherty
781-690-5077
