The level of technical expertise attained by most attorneys has sometimes impaired the quality of advocacy offered to clients. It is certainly true that the other users of the guideline system -- prosecutors, judges, and probation officers -- have also been hampered by deficiencies in knowledge of and sophistication with the system. Nevertheless, the criminal defense bar could benefit from more information and training on the Sentencing Reform Act, its guidelines, and necessary strategies of sentencing advocacy. This article is intended to offer some structure and guidance for the criminal defense bar in advocating downward departures. 3 notes. (Publisher abstract)