Does the state have mandatory minimum sentences? Yes. Click here to learn more.
Does the state have a sentencing commission? Yes, the District of Columbia Sentencing and Criminal Code Revision Commission.
Does the state have sentencing guidelines? Yes, the “Voluntary Sentencing Guidelines Practice Manual.”
If yes, are the sentencing guidelines voluntary/advisory or mandatory? Voluntary/advisory.
Does the state have drug courts? Yes. Click here to learn more.
Does the state have on or more safety valves/exceptions? No. To learn more about safety valves, read our factsheet, Safety Valves in a Nutshell.
Helpful links
Mayor Adrian Fenty
DC Department of Corrections
U.S. Parole Commission: Handles DC offenders who are eligible for parole. Click here for more information.
DC Executive Clemency (pardons and commutations): DC offenders should apply to the U.S. Office of the Pardon Attorney.
Council of the District of Columbia (DC's legislature)
DC Court System
DC Drug Courts
Want help finding a lawyer in the District of Columbia? Click here or contact the local association of criminal defense lawyers. You can learn more about how to work with an attorney by reading our answers to frequently asked questions.
Want to search the District of Columbia’s laws? Click here
Want to find out how a bill becomes a law in the District of Columbia? Click here
Want to find your state legislative representatives? Click here
Want to work on changing the laws in your state? Learn how through our Citizen Action Kit!
Sentencing/Criminal Justice Reform Groups in the State
ACLU of the Nation’s Capital Area
DISCLAIMER: FAMM does not endorse or support and is not affiliated with any of the attorneys, organizations, or sites listed on this page. FAMM cannot guarantee that the laws listed on its website or the content appearing on any of the links listed on this page are accurate or fully up-to-date. Laws change often, and before taking any action in reliance on the information presented on FAMM’s website or on the sites linked to on this page, you should always verify that the information is still accurate or talk with an attorney. If you feel you need legal advice, you should seek the help of an attorney in your state. FAMM cannot provide legal advice, representation, research, or referrals.