Make a Stronger Case with Sentencing Videos
In serious criminal cases, it's crucial to present your client's life story in the most impactful way possible. Sentencing videos are a powerful tool to do just that—offering a vivid glimpse into your client's life and the support around them. Think of them like a mini-documentary about your client.
Some judges give considerable weight to whether or not the person who’s been convicted has a good support network that can help them continue living a productive life away from crime. They also factor in the efforts that the person is making to improve their life and stay on the straight and narrow.
Sentencing videos are highly effective because they:
Let judges and parole boards see your client as a real person with a life, challenges, and a community ready to support their positive change.
Boil down complex stories into clear, engaging narratives, getting straight to the heart of the matter.
Keep people focused and interested using dynamic visuals, making an unforgettable impact.
Get more authentic statements, as witnesses are more comfortable telling your client’s story in their own environment.
Offer a realistic and more compelling view of your client's world (and the people in it).
Add more depth and context than a stack of papers ever could.
Allow statements from important witnesses who can't be in court, making sure all voices are heard.
Save the courts money by cutting witness testimony time and travel costs.
Save time and resources for the attorneys.
Ensure your client’s story is presented in the best light.
Using sentencing videos in your strategy not only humanizes your client but also highlights their potential for a bright and productive future surrounded by loved ones.
Sentencing videos can be especially effective in federal cases, when there’s not much wiggle room in the guilt/innocence phase. These videos can pack a punch in a case where every advantage counts, enhancing your sentencing memorandum with humanity and feeling.
Clemency is also a great place to showcase a video, as it makes the decision maker feel compassion more deeply than a clemency petition on its own.
In short, sentencing videos can be especially useful in tough cases, offering a new perspective that could lead to a better outcome.
Interested in using sentencing videos for your next case? Our team at AK Investigations is ready to help you create a narrative that truly stands out.