Why We Have a Mitigation Specialist

Because someone’s full story matters.

At Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys, we don’t just defend the “what happened” – we care deeply about the “who” behind the case. That’s why our team includes a dedicated Mitigation Specialist: to ensure that the person facing charges is seen not only as a case number, but as a whole human being with a past, a context, and a chance for redemption.

What a Mitigation Specialist Does

The role is both strategic and deeply human. Our Mitigation Specialist brings investigative acumen together with compassionate insight to build a more fuller understanding of each client’s life, character, and potential – so that the court sees the person, not just the offense.

Key areas of focus include:

Life-history investigation: An in-depth look at a person’s upbringing, family dynamics, social environment, education, trauma, and other formative experiences.
Mental health & substance-use background: Reviewing medical, psychological, and substance-use records to provide context.
Character & community involvement: Documenting testimonials, community contributions, relationships, and positive influences in the client’s life.
Rehabilitation potential: Demonstrating remorse, growth, accountability, and readiness for change – not just legal compliance, but personal transformation.

This kind of work doesn’t excuse the offense – it provides the narrative and evidence that allow decision-makers to understand why events occurred and how someone can move toward a better path.

Why It Matters

In criminal defense and post-conviction relief, a strong mitigation presentation can make a critical difference. At Blizzard & Zimmerman, we believe it can change lives.

Judges and juries gain a fuller picture, one that encourages individualized justice rather than cookie-cutter punishment.
In sentencing hearings, parole reviews, and appeals, mitigation can support reduced sentences, alternatives to incarceration, and real second-chance opportunities.
For clients and families, it brings dignity, hope, and the message: you are more than the moment that brought you here.

Meet Our Specialist

David Herbst, Mitigation Specialist, of Blizzard and Zimmerman Attorneys helps clients prepare mitigation materials that highlight growth, accountability, and positive change , often playing a crucial role in parole hearings, post-conviction reviews, and sentencing relief efforts.We’re proud to have David Herbst, MDiv serve as our Mitigation Specialist (and our law firm’s Chaplain).

With a dual background in chaplaincy and mitigation work, David brings rare depth to the role. He works day-in and day-out with clients, families, and our attorneys – gathering records, conducting interviews, and preparing detailed mitigation reports for sentencing hearings, appeals, writs, and parole hearings.

Because of David’s involvement:

  • Our clients feel heard and humanized – not just reduced to charges.
  • he courtroom sees more than an offense; they see a full life story.
  • Our firm lives its mission: justice, accountability, restoration.

Our Promise to You

If you’re facing criminal charges, we know the stakes. What you need is not just a lawyer – you need a team that respects your humanity, digs deeper, and gives every element of your story the attention it deserves.

At Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys in Abilene, we will:

  • Put the resources and time into mitigation work from day one.
  • Ensure every relevant part of your history, character and growth is documented.
  • Present your full story to the court – so the outcome doesn’t define you, but helps you move beyond it.

Get Started

Reach out today for a confidential case review. We’re available 24 hours a day and ready to begin building your story and your defense.

Call (325) 307-5974 to request a consultation.

We’re here to fight, support, and stand beside you.