Why We Have a Mitigation Specialist
Because someone’s full story matters.
At Blizzard & Zimmerman Attorneys, we don’t just defend the “what happened” – we care deeply about the “who” behind the case. That’s why our team includes a dedicated Mitigation Specialist: to ensure that the person facing charges is seen not only as a case number, but as a whole human being with a past, a context, and a chance for redemption.
What Does a Mitigation Specialist Do?
The role is both strategic and deeply human. Our Mitigation Specialist brings investigative acumen together with compassionate insight to build a more fuller understanding of each client’s life, character, and potential – so that the court sees the person, not just the offense.
Key areas of focus include:
- Life-history investigation: An in-depth look at a person’s upbringing, family dynamics, social environment, education, trauma, and other formative experiences.
- Mental health & substance-use background: Reviewing medical, psychological, and substance-use records to provide context.
- Character & community involvement: Documenting testimonials, community contributions, relationships, and positive influences in the client’s life.
- Rehabilitation potential: Demonstrating remorse, growth, accountability, and readiness for change – not just legal compliance, but personal transformation.
This kind of work doesn’t excuse the offense – it provides the narrative and evidence that allow decision-makers to understand why events occurred and how someone can move toward a better path.
Why It Matters
In criminal defense and post-conviction relief, a strong mitigation presentation can make a critical difference. At Blizzard & Zimmerman, we believe it can change lives.
- Judges and juries gain a fuller picture, one that encourages individualized justice rather than cookie-cutter punishment.
- In sentencing hearings, parole reviews, and appeals, mitigation can support reduced sentences, alternatives to incarceration, and real second-chance opportunities.
- For clients and families, it brings dignity, hope, and the message: you are more than the moment that brought you here.
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Meet Our Specialist
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We’re proud to have David Herbst, MDiv serve as our Mitigation Specialist (and our law firm’s Chaplain).
With a dual background in chaplaincy and mitigation work, David brings rare depth to the role.
He works day-in and day-out with clients, families, and our attorneys:
- Gathering records
- Conducting interviews
- Preparing detailed mitigation reports for sentencing hearings, appeals, writs, and parole hearings.
Because of David’s involvement:
- Our clients feel heard and humanized – not just reduced to charges.
- The Judge and courtroom sees more than an offense; they see a full life story.
- Our firm lives its mission: justice, accountability, restoration.
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Get Started
Reach out today for a confidential case review. We’re available 24 hours a day and ready to begin building your story and your defense.
Call (325) 307-5974 to request a case review.
We’re here to fight, support, and stand beside you.
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