Criminal Defendants who decide to cooperate with the government can effectively reduce their sentences. Even an individual who is already incarcerated can reduce his or her sentence by cooperating with the government. When he or she decides to cooperate, this is referred to as a “Proffer.”
The Benefits of Cooperating with the Federal Government
Individuals suspected of being involved in a criminal act or already serving time for a criminal act may benefit by cooperating with Federal prosecutors. Federal prosecutors may offer a Proffer to a criminal Defendant to serve as a form of limited immunity; however, if a Proffer is not offered, a criminal defendant or incarcerated individual can ask his or her criminal defense attorney to request a Proffer. Understanding and
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An individual who has information that Federal prosecutors need/want and although he or she has no criminal liability, the individual may choose to Proffer as a means of resolving the situation at hand, without risking being charged.
Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney is Essential
Once a criminal Defendant decides to cooperate, he or she needs to hire a criminal defense attorney who has experience in this particular area of the law. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney like Ben Stechschulte ensures that the individual receives the maximum sentence reduction or best immunity agreement possible.
Negotiating a Proffer Agreement
To begin this process, the Defendant and his or her attorney hold a meeting with Federal Agents from the departments relevant to the charges/crimes being discussed (i.e., DOJ, DEA, ATF, IRS, etc.) and the Assistant U.S. Attorney. Following a successful Proffer, the criminal Defendant receives a Cooperation Agreement outlining the benefits he or she is receiving for assisting the government.
The Proffer