In a significant legal triumph, board-certified federal criminal defense attorney Jacob Blizzard successfully secured a remarkably reduced sentence for his client, who faced severe charges related to the solicitation and receipt of sexually explicit photos of a minor. Through diligent efforts and strategic planning, Mr. Blizzard achieved an outcome that not only impacts his client but also sets a potential precedent for future cases.
Proactive Defense Strategy
From the outset, Mr. Blizzard’s approach was marked by early and proactive involvement. Recognizing the gravity of the charges, he immediately set his client on a mitigation plan.
This plan was designed to prompt essential changes in the client’s life, providing substantial mitigation evidence by the time the case reached a federal judge. Such proactive measures showcased the client’s commitment to rehabilitation and personal growth, which later played a crucial role in the court’s decision.
Negotiating Reduced Charges
Through strategic early negotiations, Mr. Blizzard convinced federal prosecutors to reduce the potential charges from a daunting 15-30 year range of punishment to a more manageable 0-10 year range.
This substantial reduction was a critical achievement, laying the groundwork for a more favorable outcome for the client.
Contesting the Sentencing
The government pushed hard to obtain a 10-year sentence, a sentence that was in line with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines at the contested sentencing hearing. Despite the government’s push for a 10-year sentence, Mr. Blizzard vigorously contested the recommendation. He meticulously prepared a motion for downward departure from the sentencing guidelines and presented a comprehensive sentencing memorandum. His arguments were compelling, highlighting the significant positive changes the client had made since the offense occurred.
The Outcome
The federal court, persuaded by Mr. Blizzard’s thorough preparation and compelling arguments, granted the downward departure from the sentencing guidelines. The client was sentenced to only 3 years of confinement—a far cry from the potential 10 years sought by the government.
Broader Impact
This legal victory in federal court not only allows the client to return to society much sooner, providing an opportunity to rebuild and contribute positively to the community, but it also sets a significant precedent. The case underscores the importance of considering personal rehabilitation efforts and significant life changes in federal sentencing decisions. This landmark decision could influence future cases involving similar circumstances, potentially leading to fairer outcomes that emphasize rehabilitation over prolonged punishment.
Through exceptional legal strategy and unwavering dedication, Jacob Blizzard demonstrated that effective defense can lead to remarkable outcomes, even in the most challenging cases. This victory reaffirms the importance of proactive defense and the potential for rehabilitation, offering hope for clients facing severe charges and paving the way for more balanced and just sentencing practices in the future.
About The Attorney
Jacob Blizzard is board certified in both criminal law and criminal appellate law.
He regularly practices in the areas of state and federal criminal defense, criminal appeals, post conviction writs of habeas corpus.
In Texas, there are more than 100,000 attorneys licensed to practice, but only 7,450 are board certified.
In the entire State of Texas, as of the 2019 certification year by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, there were only 87 attorneys board certified in both criminal law and criminal appellate law, making Mr. Blizzard one of 0.087% of attorneys in Texas to hold both of those certifications.
Disclaimer
Attorney Jacob Blizzard works tirelessly to achieve the greatest possible results for each of our clients and their families. This is one of his successful results, settlements, and verdicts. Every case and client is unique and depends upon the individual facts and circumstances of each case. Clients may or may not obtain the same or similar results in each case.