How to Keep a Sentencing Narrative in Your Own Voice
Direct answer: Use words you understand, describe experiences you can explain and remove language that sounds borrowed. Editing should improve clarity and accuracy without inventing remorse, insight or a version of you that the record cannot support.
Notice language you would not use
Joseph’s ABA feature warns against over-polishing a personal narrative. A draft can become less useful when ordinary experiences are converted into grand claims about transformation. Read it aloud. If a sentence sounds like a press release or contains a concept you cannot explain, rewrite it in simpler language.
Use detail instead of impressive adjectives
Calling yourself accountable is less informative than describing an actual decision to accept oversight or correct a practice. The detail must be true and relevant. Do not manufacture a dramatic moment of realization because it seems like every narrative needs one. Change may have been gradual and incomplete.
Preserve the distinction between help and substitution
An editor can identify confusing chronology, repetition and missing support. Counsel can identify legal concerns. Neither function requires inventing a personal voice. Review every revision yourself and flag anything that overstates your understanding, conduct or future commitments.
Preparation checklist
- Read one paragraph aloud without rehearsing it.
- Underline words you would not naturally use.
- Replace labels with a specific supported example.
- Check whether the paragraph claims feelings you do not actually hold.
Can AI help edit my narrative?
It can assist with organization, but do not let it invent facts or emotions. Review every sentence with care and coordinate sensitive case material and final content with counsel.
Published analysis behind this resource
This resource adapts preparation principles from Joseph’s published analysis. Publication does not imply publisher endorsement of Sentencing Advocacy Group.
Continue with the related SAG guide, explore the published work, or read Client Results & Experiences.
Discuss the next preparation step
Joseph De Gregorio has been retained in more than 500 federal cases. Contact Sentencing Advocacy Group to discuss preparation alongside defense counsel.