Giving People More Time and Freedom After Indictment

(e.g. discussing the possibility of a 5K1.1 motion or other cooperation agreements). While legal negotiations are handled by your attorney, a consultant might prepare you for proffer sessions or debriefings. Ask if they have experience guiding clients who choose to cooperate with prosecutors​

This could include coaching you on making a statement to the judge, writing a personal letter accepting responsibility, or assembling support letters. Gauge whether the consultant has specific strategies to humanize you to the court and argue for leniency (such as community service you've done, family dependents, etc.).

While not a lawyer, a seasoned consultant should understand the basics of offense levels, departures, and variances. They might identify factors in your background that support a downward departure or advise on steps (like rehabilitation efforts) that could influence the judge’s discretion at sentencing.