Kushner | Law Group PLLC
Kushner | Law Group PLLC
Kushner | Law Group PLLC

Vigorous Advocates Fighting For Your Rights

The safety valve rule can help avoid a long federal sentence

On Behalf of | May 30, 2023 | Federal Crimes |

Many federal drug charges have a mandatory minimum sentence. The mandatory minimum sentence allows the judge to sentence the defendant to at least the amount of the time. 

That said, there are some exemptions to the mandatory minimum sentence, one of which is the safety valve rule. Codified at 18 U.S.C. § 3553(f), this rule benefits those who face drug crimes with mandatory minimum sentences.

What is the safety valve rule?

This rule applies to first-time, non-violent defendants. This provision was implemented to ensure that persons convicted of low-level and non-violent offenses with a little criminal record don’t get unreasonably disproportionate prison time. The safety valve rule enables the judge to give less time than the mandatory minimum. 

Special requirements for the safety valve rule

You must meet various conditions to be eligible for the safety valve rule. These include:

  • The offense was non-violent: The offense committed must be non-violent, and you must not have threatened the victims in any way. In addition, you must not have possessed a firearm or any dangerous weapon during the offense. THe offense must not have resulted in serious injury or death to anyone.
  • You are a low-level offender with a limited criminal history: To be eligible for the safety valve rule, you must not have been the leader, supervisor, organizer or manager during the criminal act. Additionally, you must not have engaged in an ongoing criminal enterprise.
  • You are cooperating with investigators: You must truthfully provide the government with whatever information you have regarding the offense and any scheme or drug operation that was involved, if applicable.

The safety valve rule is a crucial element in any drug crime negotiations. It can help avoid lengthy prison sentences for people facing charges with mandatory minimum charges. However, if you are facing federal criminal charges, consider seeking legal help to know your options.