Sample Letter Of Surrender Of Property: Fill & Download for Free

Initially the police, but probably both. What your father is doing is actually a illegal. You didn’t indicate what state you reside, but all states have similar laws. Please bear in mind that everything below is specific to Florida and is intended to educate you on your rights, not to provide actionable advice. For that you should hire an attorney. Here’s a handout that’s useful in the state of Florida;WHAT TO DO IF YOUR LANDLORD LOCKS YOU OUT OR TURNS OFF THE UTILITIESChapter 83, Part II, of the Florida Statues governs relations between residential landlords and tenants in Florida. Under that law there are only three ways your landlord can get possession of the premises in which you are living: (1) you abandon the premises by not living there for an extended period of time without notifying your landlord or paying your rent; (2) you voluntarily allow the landlord to take possession of the premises; and (3) the landlord brings a lawsuit in County Court asking the Judge to order that you be evicted.In other words, if you are living in the premises you rent and wish to stay there, the landlord cannot order you to leave or lock you out. Instead the landlord must bring a lawsuit to obtain an order evicting you. This is true even if you have not paid your rent or violated the terms of your rental agreement. The law applies whether you rent an apartment, house, duplex, condo, mobile home or mobile home lot.If your landlord brings a lawsuit to evict you, you are entitled to appear and defend yourself, with or without an attorney. If the Judge finds for the landlord, the Judge will sign an order directing the Sheriff's Department to evict you. Only the Sheriff's Department, not the landlord, can legally force you to leave your premises.Sometimes a landlord will try to get around the law by turning off the electricity, changing the locks, removing the doors, or doing something else to make the tenant leave. THIS IS AGAINST THE LAW. If your landlord does anything like this, you can sue the landlord for three times the rent or actual damages, whichever is more, and also recover your attorney fees and costs. You can sue the landlord in Small Claims Court without an attorney if your damages are less than $5000. You can also file for an injunction to order the landlord to let you back in, or turn on the utilities.If your landlord tries to force you to leave without going through the Court, you should call the police. Show the police this handout and ask for their assistance. Sometimes a landlord will reconsider and give you back your premises if you explain to him what the law requires. The best way to do this is to write the landlord a letter. A sample letter is attached. Keep a copy of the letter you give your landlord. Copies of the laws protecting you are also attached.Statute 83.67 states that it is illegal for a landlord to do anything to force the tenant to leave, such as changing the locks or turning off the utilities. This section also says that a tenant may obtain an injunction to order the landlord to stop the illegal activity and that the tenant may be awarded damages and attorney’s fees and costs.§83.67 Prohibited practices.(1) No landlord of any dwelling unit governed by this part shall cause, directly or indirectly, the termination or interruption of any utility service furnished the tenant, including, but not limited to, water, heat, light, electricity, gas, elevator, garbage collection, or refrigeration, whether or not the utility service is under the control of, or payment is made by, the landlord.(2) No landlord of any dwelling unit governed by this part shall prevent the tenant from gaining reasonable access to the dwelling unit by any means, including, but not limited to, changing the locks or using any bootlock or similar device.(3) No landlord of any dwelling unit governed by this part shall remove the outside doors, locks, roof, walls, or windows of the unit except for purposes of maintenance, repair, or replacement; nor shall the landlord remove the tenant's personal property from the dwelling unit unless said action is taken after surrender, abandonment, or a lawful eviction. If provided in the rental agreement or a written agreement separate from the rental agreement, upon surrender or abandonment by the tenant, the landlord shall not be liable or responsible for storage or disposition of the tenant's personal property; if provided in the rental agreement there shall be printed or clearly stamped on such rental agreement a legend in substantially the following form: BY SIGNING THIS RENTAL AGREEMENT THE TENANT AGREES THAT UPON SURRENDER OR ABANDONMENT, AS DEFINED BY THE FLORIDA STATUTES, THE LANDLORD SHALL NOT BE LIABLE OR RESPONSIBLE FOR STORAGE OR DISPOSITION OF THE TENANT'S PERSONAL PROPERTY. For the purposes of this section, abandonment shall be as set forth in s. 83.59(3)(c).(4) A landlord who violates the provisions of this section shall be liable to the tenant for actual and consequential damages or 3 months' rent, whichever is greater, and costs, including attorney's fees. Subsequent or repeated violations which are not contemporaneous with the initial violation shall be subject to separate awards of damages.(5) A violation of this section shall constitute irreparable harm for the purposes of injunctive relief. (6) The remedies provided by this section are not exclusive and shall not preclude the tenant from pursuing any other remedy at law or equity which the tenant may have. Statute 83.59 states that the only way a landlord can make a tenant lae the unit is by filing a lawsuit in County Court to evict the tenant and obtaining a final judgment of eviction.§83.59 Right of action for possession(1) If the rental agreement is terminated and the tenant does not vacate the premises, the landlord may recover possession of the dwelling unit as provided in this section.(2) A landlord, the landlord's attorney, or the landlord's agent, applying for the removal of a tenant shall file in the county court of the county where the premises are situated a complaint describing the dwelling unit and stating the facts that authorize its recovery. A landlord's agent is not permitted to take any action other than the initial filing of the complaint, unless the landlord's agent is an attorney. The landlord is entitled to the summary procedure provided in s. 51.011 [F.S. 1971], and the court shall advance the cause on the calendar.(3) The landlord shall not recover possession of a dwelling unit except:(a) In an action for possession under subsection (2) or other civil action in which the issue of right of possession is determined;(b) When the tenant has surrendered possession of the dwelling unit to the landlord; or(c) When the tenant has abandoned the dwelling unit. In the absence of actual knowledge of abandonment, it shall be presumed that the tenant has abandoned the dwelling unit if he or she is absent from the premises for a period of time equal to one half the time for periodic rental payments. However, this presumption shall not apply if the rent is current or the tenant has notified the landlord, in writing, of an intended absence.(4) The prevailing party is entitled to have judgment for costs and execution therefor.Date:Landlord’s Name:Landlord’s Address:City State ZipDear :On <date>, I believe you did the following illegal acts to force me out of my unit:Under Florida law as contained in Statute §83.67 of Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes, if you want me out of the unit, then you must file an eviction action in Dade County Court. THERE ARE NO SELF HELP EVICTIONS IN THIS STATE. If the Judge in the eviction case orders me evicted, then the Dade County Sheriff’s Department will put me out.The actions you have taken may violate Florida’s landlord/tenant law and may make you liable to me for three times the rent or actual damages, whichever is greater, and my attorney’s fees and costs. I am attaching a copy of this law. I suggest you consult with your attorney who can confirm this.I demand that you cease your illegal activity within three (3) hours of receiving this letter. That should give you sufficient time to confirm that what I have said is true.Sincerely,

All About GST on Export of Software ServiceGoods & Services Tax (GST):GST is the complete mechanism to bring in numerous indirect taxes under one umbrella and thus rationalising the whole tax system. GST engulfs Central Goods & Services Tax (CGST), Integrated Goods & Services Tax (IGST), State Goods & Services Tax (SGST), Union Territory Goods & Services Tax (UTGST). When any sales are made within a state, then CGST & SGST/ UTGST are applied as GST taxes. When Purchase/ Sales cross the border of a state, then IGST is applied.Zero- rated supplyZero-rated supply meansExport of goods or services orSupply of goods or services to Special Economic ZoneTypes of Business OrganisationsBusiness organisations & operations can be of different types. One, which we are covering here specifically are those which are captive unit. Captive units are those which are controlled and governed by parent company which is located abroad. Whatever the Indian unit does, it is for the foreign parent only. All the services of Indian company are consumed by parent company. Thus operating as a backend office and hence termed as captive unit.Another form of organisation being dealt here is an independent organisation which exports software services to its clients who are located abroad.The difference is that such independent organisations do not cater to only one parent company and is not operating as a backend office for only one client.Taxable Event / Time of SupplyTaxable event means the point of time when provision of service will be taxed. In case of such service exporter, the point of taxable event will be:Place of SupplySince the service is being exported out of India, here the supply will not be the place of consumption of service, rather it will be the place of actual provision of service i.e. India. E.g. Service is being provided from Delhi office and is exported directly to parent company located in USA, or client located in USA, the place of supply will be Delhi.If multiple locations in India are being used to supply such service to foreign company, the point of provision of service will be the place from where invoice is raised. In case the place of supply is not identifiable then place of supply will be the place which is most directly related with such supply.Registration RequirementIf the Indian service provider is already registered under Service Tax, migration is to be done before 30.06.2017 or from 01.07.2017 as per the provisions or arrangements made by Govt.If there is more than one place of such service provision, all of them are to be registered under GST having same PAN but different state GSTIN. IEC (Import Export Code) is to be mentioned while taking registration under GST. Such place of provision of service must be having reasonable permanent establishment from where services can be provided. Registration is required only for the places from where supplies are being made.Export of Software service is not covered under composition scheme, hence, regular registration is to be done. Compulsory registration is required for exporters under GST even if the turnover is less than Rs.20 Lakhs.Value of SupplyValue of supply is the transaction value on which the bills are raised. This transaction value can include incidental expenses like packing, commission, interest or late fee/ penalty for late payment or subsidies but not to include GST. Also, discount in invoices decided after the supply is made cannot be reduced from transaction value.If the transaction value is not determinable, specifically in the case of providing software export service to foreign parent company, Transfer Pricing provisions have to be referred. Hence, Transfer Pricing Study plays an important role and is to be conducted in time with the help of proper consultation.Consumption of ServiceConsumption of outward service here will be in foreign territory. Consumption which actually is to be considered would be inward supplies which will act as input and input tax paid can be claimed as refund. Inward supplies means supplies of goods or services received from vendor for executing software export service.What is INPUTInput means all those services and materials used directly for the purpose of rending the service. In the present scenario, some of the examples of Input would be:Internet facility, Stationery, ConsumablesManpower, Security Guard, Annual MaintenanceComputer maintenance services, Insurance of employeesIt is important to mention that there are various inputs on which input credit is not available. Such inputs include:Motor Vehicles, Food & Beverages, Outdoor Catering, Beauty treatment, Health Services, Cosmetic & Plastic SurgeryMembership of Club, health & fitness centre, Rent-a-cab, life insurance and health insurance.Travel benefits extended to employees on vacation such as leave or home travel concessionWorks contract services for construction of immovable property (except plant & machinery)Supplies received for construction of immovable property (except plant & machinery) taken up on own.Taxes paid to suppliers who are under composition levy scheme., any goods or services used for personal consumptionGoods lost, stolen, destroyed, written off or disposed of by way of gift or free samples.Taxes paid on account of order by department for wilful default, confiscation or detention in transit. Confiscation and detention in transit apply in case of goods, hence, it is not applicable on present scenario of export of software services.It is to be noted that input tax credit will be allowed before 20th October after the end of financial year to which such input tax credit pertains or filing of annual return, whichever is done earlier. Last date for furnishing annual return under form GSTR -9 is 31st December after end of Financial Year. It is hereby suggested to file annual return by 20thOctober so that there is no accidental chance of losing any credit.Apportionment of Credit:If input goods or services are used partly for the purpose of providing such software export service and partly for other purposes, credit of input tax will be available only for portion actually used for such service export business.If input goods or services are being used for exempted goods or services, then such portion will not be allowed as input credit. In the present scenario, software export services are Zero Rated, not exempt, hence, input portion on these Nil rated services will be allowed for set-off from output tax liability. However, since there is no output tax liability, such input will be refunded.Input of Capital GoodsCapital Goods are those which are capitalised in the book of accounts and are not short-term in nature. When such capital goods are purchased, the buyer pays excise/ VAT on them. In the present law, the credit of such taxes or duties paid is available in two years at 50% each. The whole amount of duty/ tax paid is booked in full, however, while discharging output tax liability, 50% of input credit on capital goods is available for set-off.However, in GST 100% credit is allowed at the time of purchase. If depreciation has been claimed on the tax component of capital goods, input tax credit of such tax component is not allowed.Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM)Reverse Charge Mechanism is applicable to all persons registered under GST. Any person registered in GST takes services or materials from an unregistered person, then such registered person has to pay applicable GST on such input or input services. Such reverse payment of taxes by receiver of supply is called Reverse Charge Mechanism. The payer will get credit of such tax paid on reverse charge. In present scenario, since the supply is Zero Rated, hence, tax paid under reverse charge will be refunded.Services imported which are utilised for the purpose of rendering software export service are covered under reverse charge mechanism, indicating that GST on import service is to be paid under reverse charge. If tax on such import services have been paid in full before the implementation date of GST, then no tax is to be paid after GST date. However, if no or part payment has been paid, then any payment paid after implementation of GST will be taxed under GST provisions.Input Service Distributor (ISD)There are situations when the business is operated from different locations. However, only one office receives all the invoices of input goods & services. The tax paid on such services by the said office is then distributed to other working offices according to their contribution in providing the software export service. This office which distributes Input Tax Credit (ITC) is called Input Service Distributor (ISD).Points noteworthy for ISD:For distributing such credit, it is necessary that all the offices are registered under same PAN and ISD is to be registered as ISD while taking registration under GST.Mandatory registration of ISD is required under GST regime.GST Return of ISD will be GSTR-6 which is to be filed by 13th of the next month.Other office to which ISD distributes credit has to accept or reject such credit between 15th – 17th of the next month.Input credit available from services received prior to the day of implementation of GST and invoices received after the date, such input credit shall be eligible for distribution.Conditions for distribution of credit by ISD:The ISD can distribute credit against a document.Excess credit is not to be distributed.Credit attributable to a particular office to be distributed to that office only.If there are more than one office to whom credit is to be distributed, then, pro- rata distribution to be done based on turnover.InvoicingInvoicing for Software Export service providers is not a very big concern as the provisions are same, however, only format has been changed. For understanding purpose, a draft format is being enclosed at the end of this book. Only few major parts to be understood:Service Accounting Code (SAC): This is the code that is assigned to each type of services. Depending upon theexact classification of the service, it is to be mentioned on the invoice.Type of GST: The invoice format has CGST, SGST and IGST as separate columns to be filled for tax portion. Here, nothing will be mentioned as software export services are Zero Rated.The text to be used is: “Supply Meant For Export On Payment Of IGST” – if IGST has been paid on the exports. “Supply Meant For Export Under Bond Or Letter Of Undertaking Without Payment Of IGST”– if IGST has not been paidPayment of TaxesThough, output tax liability is disregarded in this scenario as Software Export service is Zero Rated, however, tax payments may arise on account of:Interest, late fee or any other paymentTax, interest, penalty as awarded by GST Department officerReverse ChargeRefundUnderstanding refund mechanism is important in export service business. The reason being such services are zero rated, however, tax is paid on inputs which is refundable. Proper method has been devised for claiming refund for every month. Following points are worth understanding for smooth flow of refund:Electronic cash or credit ledger contains details of taxes, interest, penalty, fees etc. paid or to be paid. The balance after netting off payable and paid tax maybe payable or refundable.Refund can be claimed by furnishing returns as specified.Documents specifying that pa yment of such input have been made and such tax burden has not been passed on to the customer.If such refund is less than Rs. 2 Lakhs, a declaration in place such documentation would be sufficient for this purpose.The Departmental Officer referred to as Assessing Officer, will refund 90% of the total refund, on a provisional basis until clearance of complete refund based on assessment of documents. Such complete assessment will be done in 60 days from the date of receipt of application by the officer.The order will be passed for this refund in FORM GST RFD -04.Such refund will be paid directly to the applicant by issuing a payment advice in FORM GST RFD -05.If default has been committed in filing of returns or payment of any tax, interest etc, the officer may hold the payment of refund and also can deduct any tax, interest, penalty from the refund amount before payment of such refund. The order will be in FORM GST RFD- 06.If the whole of refund is completely adjusted against such pending demands, such details will be made available in Part A of FORM GST RFD -07.If officer is of the view that refund is being claimed by fraud and the matter is under litigation at higher authorities, the whole amount of refund will be on hold. Such order will be made available in Part B of FORM GST RFD -07.If the matter after litigation results in granting of refund, the amount of refund held, will be paid with interest upto 6% maximum.The relevant date from where refund will be counted as eligible will be:The date of receipt of payment if services rendered before receipt of payment.The date of issue of invoice if payment is received as advance before issue of invoice.Where refund arises as a result of any order by authority or court and application for refund is filed after such order, the same shall be paid with interest upto 9% if refund is not paid within 60 days from such application.Where such services are exported, STPI certificate is to be obtained for proving export of service.Services given to units under Special Economic Zone are to be treated in similar fashion as exports. It shall be noted that when such service is given to SEZ, a specified officer of SEZ certifies receipt of services. That certificate is to be kept in record for refund purposes.Documents required for refund:A statement containing the number of and date of invoices, Bank Realisation Certificate or Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate.Services made to a Special Economic Zone – A statement containing the number and date of invoices, the evidence regarding endorsement and the details of payment, along with proof.A declaration that SEZ unit or SEZ developer has not claimed input tax credit of tax paid by supplier of such software services.A declaration to the effect that burden of Tax, interest or any other amount claimed as refund has not been passed on to any other person, where amount of refund is less than Rs.2 Lakhs.For the sake of knowledge of the reader :- A certificate from Chartered Accountant or a cost accountant is to be annexed in Form GST RFD – 01, which will certify that burden of tax that has been claimed as refund, has not been passed on to any other person. Such certificate is required in case the refund amount is greater than Rs.2 Lakhs.However, in case of Zero Rated supplies, such certificate is not required to be furnished.When refund becomes due, resulting from order of authority or court, reference number of the order and a copy of the order.In case of supply without payment of tax under bond or letter of undertaking i.e. with or without payment of Integrated Goods and Services Tax, refund of input tax credit shall be granted as per the following formula:Refund Amount = (Turnover of zero-rated supply of services) x Net ITC ÷ Adjusted Total TurnoverWhere,-“Refund Amount” means the maximum refund that is acceptable;“Net ITC” means input tax credit availed on inputs and input services during the period;“Turnover of zero-rated supply of services” means the value of the software service rendered without payment of tax under bond or letter of undertaking, calculated in the following manner:-Zero-rated supply of services is the total of payments received during the period for such supply of services and supply of services completed for which payment received in advance in any period prior to the relevant periodSubtracted byadvances received for services for which the supply of services has not been completed during the relevant period;“Adjusted Total turnover” means the turnover of software services excluding any exempt supplies turnover.This definition of adjusted total turnover has been modified keeping in view limited scope of the topic.Acknowledgement of application for refund filed will appear in FORM GST RFD -02 on portal and will be available for viewing to the applicant within 3 to 15 days.If there are any deficiencies, such deficiencies will appear in FORM GST RFD – 03 on portal.The refund granting is subject to a condition of non- prosecution of applicant for evading tax of more than Rs.2.5 Crores in the preceding 5 years.Where the officer or authority is satisfied that no or part of refund is not allowable, a notice will be issued in FORM GST RFD -08 asking the applicant to furnish their reply in FORM GST RFD -09 within 15 days. Thereby making final order in FORM GST RFD -06.A Ledger is maintained on portal for payable or credit available to be utilised. Refund mechanism to operate by debiting or crediting the ledger balance.Maintenance of database, documents or records:Database needs to be maintained to ensure smooth data flow along with processing and feeding of any informationwhile complying with GST Law. Although complete database maintenance is case specific, however, major points have been highlighted:Vendor Details: Name, Address, PAN, GSTIN, HSN Code of goods being purchased, SAC (Service Accounting Code) of services.Buyer Details: Name, Address, PAN, GSTIN, SAC (Service Accounting Code) of services.Backup of all entries being feeded whether through accounting software or through maintenance of excel sheets.All bills of inward supplies being goods or services consumed, all invoices raised to customers, Credit notes, debit notes, receipt vouchers, payment vouchers, refund vouchersCalculation done for netting off output tax liability and input tax credit. In the present case, the output tax liability will be Zero.All applications for refund and their complete files for refund processing, all sorts of communication with GST department.Certificate from STPI (Software Technology Park of India) for approving Software Services being exported, Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate, all type of communication with customer with regard to rendering of service.IEC (Import Export Code) certificate, Bank StatementsAccounts Books to be properly maintained and kept upto date.Returns to be filed & their timing:S. No.GST ReturnPurposeDue Date1.GSTR – 1Outward Supplies being Software Services10th of Next Month2.GSTR – 2Inward Supplies received15th of Next Month3.GSTR – 3Monthly Return for netting off Output & Input tax20th of Next Month4.GSTR – 6Return for Input Service Distributor13th of Next Month5.GSTR – 9To be filed by all persons covered under GST31stDecember of Next Financial Year*Any Rectification/ omission can be taken care of only in next return.Credit of Existing InputsCredit of existing inputs lying as on 30.06.2017, will be carried forward and can be claimed by filing form GST TRAN -1 by 30.09.2017.How to integrate with GST ReturnsManual Feeding provisions have been made for filing GST Returns with some information being auto-populated. However, purchasing a recognised accounting software and hiring consultants for monthly review & filing is much favourable.Few Other important FactsDeemed Export means export to EOU/ STPI/ Consulate/ Embassy etc.Export, Supply to Special Economic Zone and Deemed Exports can be viewed under the same light with some particular differences.Once voluntary registration is taken it cannot be surrendered for 1 year.Once registration is taken, exemption limit of Rs.20 Lacs do not apply, i.e. all provisions are to be complied in totality.Business organisation must authorise a person for handling compliance for ease of use in terms of signatures and other verification part including dealing with GST department.Annexure – 1Form GST PMT – 01 is a liability register which will show liabilities in terms of tax, interest, penalty, late fee or any other amount payable.Form GST PMT – 02 will show input tax credit available.Form GST PMT – 03 will be used by GST Officer for making order of any rejection of refund.Form GST PMT – 04 will be used for communicating any discrepancy in tax liability data to the GST Officer.Form GST PMT – 05 is the cash ledger account which will depict tax, interest, penalty, late fee or any amount deposited or paid therefrom.Form GST PMT – 06 will generate challan for entering details of payment for tax, interest, penalty, fee etc. Such challan will be valid for 15 days.Form GST PMT – 07 where payment as per challan has been deducted from bank but challan identification number was not generated, this form will be used to show the initiation of payment.Annexure – 2Summary of Refund FormsSr. NoForm NumberContent1.GST RFD-01Application for Refund2.GST RFD-02Acknowledgement3.GST RFD-03Deficiency Memo4.GST RFD-04Provisional Refund Order5.GST RFD-05Payment Advice6.GST RFD-06Refund Sanction/ Rejection Order7.GST RFD-06Interest on delayed refund order (same as refund order)8.GST RFD-07Order for complete adjustment of sanctioned Refund/ order for withholding of refund9.GST RFD-08Notice for rejection of application for refund10.GST RFD-09Reply to show cause notice11.GST RFD-10Application for Refund by any specialize agency of UN or Multilateral Financial Institution and Organization, Consulate or Embassy of foreign countries, etc.Disclaimer : The above content was Reproduced from a Professional website , except with minor changes

Michael Cohen’s Days in PrisonIntakeMichael Cohen will self report and surrender to Federal prison on May 6, 2019. Most probably no later than 2 PM. If he misses the deadline, he will be considered a fleeing felon. US Marshals will come after him with a warrant.Most likely, he will step in through the front door of the Federal Correctional Institute in Otisville, New York. FCI Otisville was requested by Cohen’s attorneys and recommended by the Judge in Cohen’s sentencing memorandum.Otisville is a Medium Security Prison with a detention center, and an adjacent Minimum Security Satellite Prison Camp, which is home to about 117 men. The Camp is where Cohen will serve his time.Traditionally, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) was not bound by Judges’ requests. But typically they would honor a Judge’s recommendation. The First Step Act, signed into law in December of 2018, now actually requires the BOP to assign a convicted felon to a facility within 500 driving miles of home.It is possible that due to his close association with the current President of the United States, and for his safety, the Bureau of Prisons may decide to assign Cohen to another facility rather than Otisville. We shall see.If Cohen ends up at Otisville, from my personal experience, there will probably be many lawyers serving time there. As well as doctors, politicians and business executives. Michael Cohen should have plenty of company and feel right at home. He’s going to be with a lot of people just like him.FCI Otisville meets the needs of a Jewish inmate population, offering Seders in the cafeteria among other accommodations. In general, Low Security Prison Camps are not as restrictive as higher security prisons. But contrary to popular belief, they are by no means “Club Fed”. In the final analysis, it’s a Federal prison.Doors are locked and Cohen doesn’t have the key.Cohen will probably enter through the same door visitors and guests use to enter the prison. He will have to surrender any jewelry and other personal effects, except for a wedding ring, and religious artifacts such as a mezuzot, and for Christians, a chain with a cross. Other religious artifacts, such as kufis, headbands, yarmulkes and other materials will be available for purchase in the prison commissary.But what he can bring in, including money, will be entirely up to the particular prison and intake corrections officer (CO). That will be Cohen’s first encounter with BOP authority and rule. Nothing after this first encounter has to or will make any logical or humanistic sense. It just has to make BOP sense. Or even more restrictively, CO sense.Now, according to the FCI Otisville Inmate Handbook, Cohen is:INTRODUCTION — You are now in the custody and care of Federal Bureau of Prisons staff of the Federal Correctional Institution, Otisville, New York.Once he is escorted from the non-secure waiting room, through the heavy, imposing security door that can only be unlocked by COs behind bullet proof dark glass, his life changes. He moves from the free world, to a world where he has lost the vast majority of his freedoms.Many of the niceties of life, the little things he once enjoyed will be gone for the length of his stay. He may have researched all of this himself, or have been counseled by his white-collar crime specialist attorneys. Or he may have even purchased or been given a copy of The Federal Prison Handbook.Any and all of those sources will give you some idea of what is in store for you. But the fact is, you don’t know what you don’t know, and won’t, until you actually know.The proof is in the serving and living of a jail sentence…The rest of Cohen’s intake will go down like this:Fingerprinting, Photograph/Mug Shot, DNA SwabDisrobing — his clothing and shoes will be returned to a person and address of his choice — in my case my wife received the package with my clothing and shoes. She left the package unopened for 33 and 1/2 months. She could not bear to even look at it.Body search and cavity check. They don’t touch you, but you have to “drop trou’” and spread. A humiliating episode. The first of many.Assignment of ill fitting temporary clothing and shoes, plus bedding, towel and toiletries. He may not actually get any toiletries. They seem to “miraculously” disappear from intake.Otisville winters are cold. So the clothing may be warmer than a thin white t-shirt, skimpy pants and thin-soled sneakers like those issued during my intake. This temporary clothing will be all Cohen gets until the next time the Camp laundry opens, and until he is able to establish a prison account and purchase commissary items.Cohen will receive a cursory orientation and will be referred to or may even be provided a copy of the FCI Otisville Camp Admissions & Orientation Handbook. Click on that link for some interesting reading.After his intake process is completed you will be able to look up Michael Dean Cohen in the BOP Inmate Locator and find his inmate (Register) number, Prison location, age, race, and sex, and that all-important estimated release date. The actual date will be based on a number of factors that will play out during his sentence.You can look him up now, but this is what you will see:Michael Cohen’s BOP Record Locator Search ResultsHow do I know that is his actual record? The last 3 digits of his Register Number are for the Southern District of New York. And the number 86067 is an indication that he is a relatively new assignee. 86,066 have gone before him.Plus he is not in BOP custody yet, and his release date is unknown. Until he self surrenders and is processed, he won’t be in BOP Custody and his release date will remain “unknown”.With respect to his release date, the First Step Act provides for credits an inmate can earn while serving time. These credits can be used for early release to a Half Way House or to Home Confinement. It remains to be seen how this will impact Cohen’s sentence.After processing, Cohen will take his bedding and other things he was given, and will be walked over to the minimum security Camp by the CO where he will be assigned a bunk and left on his own. Now it will be up to him and his new “bunk mates” as to what happens next.Typical Living and Sleeping Accommodations in a Federal Minimum Security Prison CampFirst Afternoon and CountCohen will likely be assigned a bunk before the 4 PM daily count. He will have to learn how to make that bunk bed properly. It varies prison by prison. In the camp where I served the majority of my time the Warden insisted on “hospital corners”. Why? Recall what I said about BOP rules and logic. Just because.Here is more about daily counts from the Otisville Camp Prison Handbook:“Ordinarily, there are five counts during the week, and six counts on weekends and holidays. During the week, counts are held at 12 midnight, 3 AM, and 5 AM, 4 PM, 10 PM. On weekends and holidays, a 10 AM count is added. Notwithstanding this schedule, additional counts may occur at any time.”This is how the BOP determines that every one of the inmates they are responsible for is present and accounted. They count noses as their “fail safe” method ensuring no one has escaped. It is a manual count. No clickers, iPads, handhelds or anything even closely resembling the 20th or 21st century. No writing anything down until the entire count is complete.Yep. The CO goes down the rows of bunks counting, with index finger extended, out loud or under their breath: One, two, three. Sometimes they hold a pencil to point and count with. This is why you can’t talk during the count, lest you confuse the counting CO. It is easy to confuse COs. They are easily distracted and confused.During my stay with the BOP there were many counts that had to be redone in mid-count. Because the CO got confused or lost track. Maybe he or she (yes there are female COs in Male prisons) was thinking about all those inmate toiletries they had squirreled away in their locker and they lost concentration.I saw some recounts as well, after the total count, when the actual numbers didn’t match what was expected. As a result, the whole count had to begin from scratch. Pissed COs, and the inmates are pissed as well.So to provide the right “environment” for the COs you must stand for most of the counts, and remain totally silent. The midnight and 3 AM counts are the exception, since they are taken while you sleep. But your head must be uncovered and visible.What happens if you talk during a count? Besides confusing the CO? It will probably get you a strong warning and may even earn you a “shot”. This a black mark on your record. Shots are tracked by the BOP Prison Counselor.Too many “shots” and you end up in the Special Housing Unit (SHU) which is a much more restrictive area. It is indeed a special place.Too many of those SHU visits and you may end up being transferred to a higher security even more restrictive facility.Understatement: This would be a really bad thing!More on the special’ness of the Special Housing Unit later.Once the 4 PM count is over, Cohen will be able to have his first prison meal at the Camp Cafeteria. It will behoove him to have made some cursory acquaintances by then. Because there are inmate rules and norms, especially kitchen, cafeteria and food related. For instance, where you sit, and who you sit with.These are best learned from other inmates and by first hand careful observation. Not from having inadvertently and unknowingly violated them.Meals and FoodMeals at Otisville are served at the following times:Monday — FridayBreakfast 6:00 am Lunch 11:00 am Dinner 4:15 pmSaturday, Sunday, and HolidaysBreakfast 7:00 am Lunch 11:00 am Dinner 4:15 pmSupposedly the food at the Otisville Camp is “good”.I’ve eaten at 7 different prisons. Federal and State. I’m not a hardened criminal or anything like that. I just got to travel a lot BOP style. Did a lot of undesired travel on “Con Air” with US Marshal escorts toting shotguns and automatic weapons.The US Marshals are no laughing matter…As a result of my travels, I got a chance to sample the fare at many prison facilities. And I also got to eat quite a few bologna sandwiches.I’m not sure what other people’s definition of “good” is. I wouldn’t exactly label any of the Prison food I ate as “good”. Passable is as far as I would go. In some cases, the food is downright inedible.A rare exception was the food at the Strafford County Department of Corrections in Dover, New Hampshire, a privately run prison where I served 4 months. The food was surprisingly good. And plentiful.And the issue with prison food is not just the ingredients. It’s also the way the food is prepared. A few examples of both types of issues…Undersized chicken sold cheaply to the BOP because no other food distribution outlets will accept itBoiled canned collard greens, unseasoned and bitter. Served regularly. To this day I can’t even look at collard greens without gaggingMystery meat. No further comment neededWatery, unsalted canned green beansWatery coffee, often with grounds. In the camp I was in, coffee was made in a big stove top boiler and then siphoned off into plastic dispensersOn the plus side of food, prison breakfast is usually good. Cereal, oatmeal, and eggs on the weekend. Sometimes pancakes.Fruit is always a popular item. Bananas are highly prized, although not always offered on a daily basis. Apples are a regular offering. Oranges are frequent. At one prison where I served time, we had a 4 week run of Peaches that were huge, juicy and outstanding, I thought I was in heaven.And milk. Milk is always available. A good source of protein. I would drink 3 or 4 glasses a day for the protein. Especially important when I began to work out regularly and lose weight.Those inmates that can afford it, supplement cafeteria food with purchases from the commissary. They become Masters of the Microwave and can prepare tasty, if not downright elegant meals. Rice. Beans. Chicken. Salmon. Tuna. Mackerel. Beef.There is a Prison combo microwave meal called “Batch”, which is made up of rice, beans, a protein, such as chicken, beef or fish, and whatever spices can be purchased from the commissary or “borrowed” from the kitchen. It’s tasty.Some inmates make and sell “burritos” from the Batch. Price? One pouch of Tuna or Mackerel. Tuna and Mackerel pouches are prison currency. As are stamps.A haircut is usually one pouch of Tuna or Mackerel. Want your bed made up nice? With those hospital corners? A pouch.By the way, the burritos are awesome!Inmates without the culinary inclination and with the means, may “hire” another inmate to cook for them. Often times these meals made from commissary items are supplemented with contraband items either smuggled in to the prison or stolen from the cafeteria. Onions. Peppers. Chicken. Tomatoes. And the ever popular bananas.Though I was never inclined to hire a prison “Chef”, and could not afford one even if I had been, I’ve tasted meals cooked up by these entrepreneurs. Unbelievably good. Actually, incredible. I had a piece of prisoner made Flan once that rivaled any I’ve had in good Miami restaurants.Once during my time at FCI Miami, an inmate who was a former Chef at a well known Miami restaurant made me a meal to thank me for help I provided him. It was INSANELY good. I couldn’t believe what he had accomplished with just the Microwave. Even the presentation was great.Just to make clear though, I much prefer to dine on excellent food as a free man, at an actual restaurant, and with loved ones…First NightAfter Cohen eats his first BOP provided meal there will be a few hours for recreation, personal hygiene, hobbies, phone calls to family, letters, reading or sending emails, reading scripture, attending classes, listening to music, or engaging in personal reflection before the 10 PM count and lights out.However most likely, he will be too disoriented, unfocused and confused. Plus, his available resources will be severely limited to engage in any meaningful activity.As an example, since a portable radio is required to listen to Camp TVs, he will not have access to one unless someone lends it to him. Possible, but unlikely.He won’t be able to call anyone, including family members for at least several days. No telephone account and codes will have been established for him yet. And he won’t have any money in his account with which to pay for calls. Even if he brought cash with him, it was taken, to be deposited into an account under his name.Feeling altruistic? You can send money to Cohen’s account. He can buy Tuna and Mackerel pouches and get a haircut or have his clothes pressed for visits.Perhaps due to his “celebrity” status, many Camp inmates will seek Cohen out. Just to talk. Size him up. Or exploit and intimidate him. He’s going to be a hero to some, a goat to others, and an anti-Christ to the Trump supporters.He’ll have to eventually reconcile with all of this. Most assuredly, he will. It’s inevitable. Soon the celebrity status fades, and then Cohen will be old news.Tonight though, he is merely trying to make sense of it all. And to survive his first day and night. He is “trying on” this new persona. And slowly learning how to act, talk, adapt, behave. He is slowly processing and defining who THIS version of Michael Cohen is right now, and who he will become in the months to come.When the 10 PM count is over, the lights go out, he lays on that ridiculously thin mattress, and his head hits that BOP-issued poor excuse for a pillow, he will most likely have trouble falling asleep. He will stare at either the ceiling above if assigned the top bunk, or the bunk bottom directly above him.Reality has set in. And In prison, reality is a true and relentless bitch…First Wake UpHas Michael Cohen been an early riser throughout his life? Well, he is now.The day at Otisville Camp begins with a 5 AM count. Rise and shine. Stand at your bunk. Mouth shut. Until the count is over.Establishing a sustainable morning routine is essential. Typically you would want to have one for weekdays, and one for weekends. In my case, on weekdays, I was up, hygiene tasks done, dressed, out the door, and in line at the cafeteria. Not the first in line, but definitely not in the last 3/4 of the line.The weekend would necessitate a slightly different schedule, for reasons I will elaborate below.Breakfast at Otisville Camp starts at 6 AM. If there are bananas or other highly coveted items, you’d best be in line and in the cafeteria before they run out.Stand in line. File in once the doors are open. Walk your tray through the line. Get your breakfast. Sit with your usual crowd. Finish up and get out. Time for a few minutes to get the day together in your head and it’s time for “work”.Cohen’s WorkThe prison work day starts at 7:30 AM. Cohen most likely won’t have a job on his first day at the Otisville Camp. Jobs are assigned by Counselors. A Counselor is a glorified CO. I met very few Counselors that I would actually consider the counseling type. For the most part, in my experience, Counselors were arrogant, rude, ignorant, and mean spirited. But they wield immense power. Don’t piss off a counselor.So Cohen will most probably be given some busy work, such as policing the grounds, until the counselor is able to assign him to a work detail. Typical first work detail assignments for a newbie would be in the camp cafeteria.Entry level cafeteria tasks would include preparing the room for meals, washing trays and dishes, and cleaning up after meals are served. No cooking or meal prep at first. That is left to more experienced kitchen-assigned prisoners. Besides, Cohen doesn’t seem the type to want to cook.Cafeteria duty is not all bad, if the right CO is in charge. You tend to eat more and better than your fellow inmates. Although the early shift typically begins at 4 AM, to get the prep done. And that takes some getting used to.In my case, the FCI Miami Cafeteria CO was sadistic and cruel. And he treated the inmates in accordance with his mean streak. I could not wait to fulfill my cafeteria duty, and then move on to other prison jobs. Maybe Cohen will be lucky and get to skip that whole ordeal.First WeekCohen’s first week will be more of the same as his first day. Except that he will probably get issued his regular prison clothes (a nice Khaki color in Otisville), undergarments, shoes, and standard bed roll consisting of two sheets, 1 pillowcase, 2 towels, and 2 wash cloths.The undergarments leave a lot to be desired. Tin Miami, they were threadbare and stained. With worn out elastic. And plenty of holes. Maybe Otisville will be more fashion-conscious.Cohen will be well advised to purchase a few T-Shirts, underwear, socks and a towel at the Commissary. I could not afford to buy any of these until family and friends were able to put together funds and deposit them in my account.As such, I used the prison issued underwear and towels for about 6 months. This experience molds and shapes you. Especially if you have become accustomed to expensive clothing, custom shirts and suits, silk ties, bespoke shoes and the like.Cohen’s focus for this first week should be to settle in, get his financial account established and funds deposited so he can purchase essentials at the Prison commissary, make phone calls and send emails.He will have to establish phone privileges as well. This means he will have to list and register the numbers he wants to call with the Camp Counselor.Cohen will be allowed 300 calling minutes per month which can be used for either direct or collect calls. Any minutes remaining at the end of the month will not carry over to the next month. Extra minutes are given during months with major holidays.There is a 15 minute maximum per call and you must wait 30 minutes between calls. There is usually a line to use the telephones. After a call, it could be several hours before you can use the phones again. The cutoff is 10 PM every night. So typically, you are going to get one chance at a call per day.All calls are recorded and monitored by Prison administration so Cohen must be careful what he and the people he calls, say to each other. You don’t talk to your lawyer on a regular prison phone. Those calls are made with permission and in the counselor’s office.Cohen must track his phone time carefully. Once he exceeds the monthly 300 minute limit, he can make no more calls until the following month.Do the math…300 minutes per month in a 30 day month is 10 minutes of calling per day. It’s not hard to use up your time quickly, especially at first when separation anxiety sets in and you want to speak to many family members.By the way, each call Cohen makes is announced to the recipient as a call originating from an inmate at a Federal Correctional Facility. The called party must acknowledge and accept that call.If the recipient rejects the call, either by accident or on purpose, the called telephone number is taken off the allowed call list. Getting it re-established in the system will require a trip to the counselor’s office.First MonthBy now, Cohen will be receiving visits from people on his approved visitors list. He will need to place people on his list and request they be approved by the Camp Counselor. There is a limit. As I recall, no more than 12 visitors. The BOP will perform a background check and will vet the requested visitors before approving. This is a hassle for potential visitors.The whole VISITING experience is a big hassle.You’ve got to really want to visit someone who is serving time in a Federal prison to put up with the hoops you must jump through…Cohen will be allocated 12 visit points per month. A weekday visit is one point. weekend or holiday visits are 2 points. He must alternate weekend days, and can have no more than 4 weekend visits at 2 points each for a total of 8 points. That leaves 4 points for weekday visits. Cohen must keep track of this as well.You can’t just show up to visit someone in Federal prison as the mood strikes you…The BOP has no flexibility when it comes to these rules.That first visit will be a big milestone of Cohen’s prison stay to date.These are the FCI Otisville visiting hours. But as mentioned earlier, not both Saturday and Sunday. Prisoners are assigned a day that alternates. One week, it’s Saturday, the next week its Sunday, and so on.Monday 8:00 am — 2:45 pmFriday 8:00 am — 2:45 pmSaturday 8:00 am — 2:45 pmSunday 8:00 am — 2:45 pmHolidays 8:00 am — 2:45 pmIf Cohen is going to be like most inmates I served with, he will make sure to look his best for visits. Well groomed, Hair cut and combed. Clothes clean and pressed. With a small application of prison-approved fragrance oil (no alcohol, naturally).The goal is to put your loved ones at ease when they realize you are taking care of yourself and you exhibit a positive frame of mind.MailNo surprise, there are many rules. As you might well imagine.The most important rule to know — All mail, incoming and outgoing, is opened and read by a CO.This is how they control contraband, illicit photographs, questionable materials, and how they “snoop” on you.Mail is distributed at a daily/nightly mail call.If you are not there, you don’t get your mail until the next mail call. Some COs will relax these rules, and give you mail outside of mail call. Or even let someone collect it for you. I wouldn’t count on that, until you see it consistently practiced.What you can receive is tightly controlled.No surprise, there is an 8 page Bureau of Prisons policy on incoming publications. You can find it HERE . In most cases, certain types of publications, such as books and newspapers, and some magazines, can only be received if they are sent directly from a publisher or distributor.From the policy:At all Bureau institutions, an inmate may receive hardcover publications and newspapers only from the publisher, from a book club, or from a bookstore.The BOP states:Publications determined detrimental to the security, good order, or discipline of the institution or that may facilitate criminal activity, or are otherwise prohibited by law, will be excluded from Bureau facilitiesAnd their policy goes on to state:The Warden may not establish an excluded list of publications. This means the Warden shall review the individual publication prior to the rejection of that publication. Rejection of several issues of a subscription publication is not sufficient reason to reject the subscription publication in its entirety.Mail is important in prison, It is a vital way of keeping in touch with loved ones. And an important part of staying connected to what is going on in the outside world, through newspapers, periodicals, and books. And a major factor in staying busy, productive, educated and fulfilled.Suffice to say, Cohen won’t be able to assume he will be able to “legally” receive and read whatever he wants. There will be limits. Just one more in a long list of freedoms lost.Cohen’s “Permanent“ Prison JobMost certainly by this time, Michael Cohen will have landed his full time prison gig. He will be paid anywhere between 0 (yes, zero. Some jobs pay NOTHING) to 40 cents per hour, based on the job and where he is assigned.Although there are a few prisons that have Industry jobs that pay higher.Did you know there is a BOP policy for Inmate Work and Performance Pay? Of course there is.Cohen will most probably change jobs multiple times while serving his sentence. It is pretty common, especially since the first job or two is usually in one of the less desirable work environments.Suffice to say, he won’t be “making ends meet” in the style to which he is accustomed on Federal Inmate prison pay.Medical CarePerhaps I should title this section Lack of Medical Care. Although I found that most of the health care employees that work in the BOP have good hearts and want to do the right thing. The issue is, their hands are tied by policy and a lack of freedom, scarcity of medication, and very few actual treatments they can prescribe and dispense.The psychologists and drug program counselors that I met and worked with, were extremely dedicated and competent. So if Cohen has to address any of these types of issues, and the prison he is eventually sent to is staffed with these people, he will be in competent hands.However some of the doctors I encountered in the BOP are just plain hacks.Cohen should be careful what kinds of diagnoses he receives and remedies he is prescribed by BOP doctors.Run of the mill issues like hypertension and diabetes are dealt with in a pretty straightforward manner. Although I did see some diabetics experiencing wild swings in their blood sugar levels and being rushed out of their cells suffering from hypo or hyperglycemia.And the BOP does a decent job of ensuring that those inmates that suffer from dependency to substances get their daily doses of methadone or whatever other medication they require. These are strictly controlled during “sick call”.If any other serious health issues are experienced by an inmate, they will usually be sent to a local hospital, clinic or specialist. This the rare exception, and is not easy to get accomplished. It usually takes persistence and consistent “noise” on the part of the inmate until the BOP doctor agrees.Some inmates who suffer from chronic conditions that are not treatable in a regular BOP prison medical facility may be transferred to a BOP special medical prison, such as Butner in North Carolina.Butner “is the Bureau’s largest medical complex, which operates a drug treatment program and specializes in oncology and behavioral science.[1]Among its inmates is Bernie Madoff. — from WikipediaButner, NC Federal Medical ComplexAt least at these types of facilities, an inmate can expect a higher level of medical care than they can get at a regular prison.Suffice to say, Cohen should do any and everything in his power to stay healthy and not require medical treatment beyond the more regular types of ailments. He should also look to the commissary for over the counter medications that are allowed for purchase and use to address any specific minor ailments.First YearThe first year tends to crawl by slowly. In Cohen’s case, with less than 3 years to serve, it will seem to move more quickly. Although each missed set of holidays while in prison tend to cause one to experience the slow ticking of the clock.As such, it will behoove Cohen to not “count the days”. Counting days is “counter productive” in prison. Not at all recommended. Your experienced and senior fellow Cons will tell you that immediately if they see you counting.You serve your sentence one day at a time. But you don’t count those days…If Cohen stays busy, occupying his waking hours with interesting and worthwhile activities, time will move briskly for him.Unless…he messes up…The SHUIf Cohen commits any violations, or earns enough “shots” even for minor infractions, he could serve time in the Special Housing Unit. This is a place akin to Solitary Confinement, although you will typically share a confined cell, complete with it’s own toilet and sink, with a fellow inmate.Just think for a brief moment about the logistics of a small, confined cell with a shared toilet which is out in the open and connected to the wash basin.2 Inmate SHU — It is Indeed SPECIAL!Private SHU Accommodations!A stay at the SHU also comes with a resplendent and complementary orange jumpsuit to differentiate Cohen from the regular population.No TV in the SHU. And a very limited supply of well worn paperbacks wheeled by once a week. You must select no more than two books through the pass through in the door.No magazines or newspapers are allowed.And you get a choice once a week between a shower, or recreational time. One or the other.But not both.Recreation time is an hour confined to chain link holding cells with no roof, within a concrete structure. You get to see a piece of sky while pacing back and forth.And the shower? Supervised the whole time by a CO. No privacy.The food is similar but not the same as the regular prison food. Plus it is cold by the time it gets to those in The SHU.I spent 2 weeks in the SHU. Needless to say, not at all an enjoyable experience.If Cohen stays within the rules, he will never experience the friendly confines of the Otisville SHU.He will fall into the rhythm of regular Federal prison life and just do his time.Perhaps he will begin working on that book we all know he is going to write!Fast Forward to the Last YearThat last year is a longish seeming stretch of time. Again, not focusing on time itself is a wise ting to do. If Cohen listens to his more successful fellow felons, in this last year of his sentence, he will intensify efforts towards activities, perhaps even involving himself in a few new ones.A new hobbyLearning a new skill (musical instrument, for example)Taking some additional coursesPicking up some additional books to readStepping up his exercise and physical activitiesPreparing a Life Plan — what to do with the rest of his lifeAs before, the trick is, to fill those days to the brim with stuff to do.Idle hands are the devil’s workshop…Last MonthIf Cohen has kept his nose clean all this time, he is in the home stretch. His good time calculation has reduced his sentence by a certain percentage, and he is not having to serve the entire 3 years. Soon, Prison staff will call him in to the office and provide him with a calculated release date for the halfway house. At this time, they will also tell him what facility he will be assigned to.Now he should be focusing on the following release-related activities:Preparing a plan for the immediate next 6 monthsLining up potential employmentFilling out required formsArranging for personal property to be mailed back — on his dimeDeciding what personal property to leave behind and give away to his inmate buddies — food, clothing, toiletries, headphones, radio, etc.Last DaysIt will be hard to focus as the magical date nears. Again, executing the items on his release To Do list should be his entire focus.Cohen needs to concentrate and keep his eyes focused squarely on the prize —Which is his RELEASE!Last NightI couldn’t sleep the night before my release. Understandable, right?This is probably the night Cohen gives away all his stuff.He will also say all of his goodbyes, and pledge to keep in touch.Except for a few rare exceptions, he most probably won’t.I have kept in touch with a handful of people I met during my time. We were there for each other, and I saw and continue to see them as reformed, contrite and positive people who have turned their lives around. It will be up to Cohen to make the decision as to who is worth keeping in touch with, and who is worth forgetting about forever.Day of ReleaseThe day of release is a whirlwind of activity. Cohen will probably be ready to go even before lights-on in anticipation of his departure from Otisville.He will bathe, and dress in the clothing he will wear to the half way house. Strip his bed and take it to the on duty CO. Empty his locker if he hasn’t already done so, and wait for his name to be called over the PA system, or for a CO to come get him.I distinctively remember how that went for me:“Fiallo. Report to the Main Building for Release.”Sweet music to my ears…Slaps on the back. Shaking of hands, and a short walk to the same place where the original intake was done. As I walked those steps, I never looked back. Cohen will probably do the same.Once in the main facility, the CO performs the following ritual:Form to be signedInstructions for reporting to the halfway house, including how much time you have been given to get thereInventory of anything you are taking with youEscorting to the main entrance by the CO, where it is verified that you are who you are supposed to beThen that massive iron door is opened, and you step outAnd Cohen is finally out…Again, I never looked back, and most probably, neither will Cohen.Whoever is picking him up will meet him in the parking lot where a happy reunion outside the confines of the BOP, will take place. And he is off to the half way house.In my case, I had enough time to first stop home and greet family before the eventual trip to the halfway house.Releases vary from prison to prison. A lot will depend on Cohen’s actual and specific circumstances. But how I described is probably how it will go down.Half Way HouseHalf-Assed House, or Prison Lite, is what I’ve heard these facilities called by the residents.I’m honestly trying to be very objective here.Half Way Houses are designed to facilitate re-entry from the stark reality of prison to the “real” reality of street life.They go by other fancy names as well. Such as Residential Re-entry Facility.An Actual Residential Re-Entry FacilityFrom Wikipedia:In criminology the purpose of a halfway house is generally considered to be that of allowing people to begin the process of reintegration with society, while still providing monitoring and support. This type of living arrangement is often believed to reduce the risk of recidivism or relapse when compared to a straight release directly into society.From the artificial reality of prison life to the real reality of normal life…In reality, the Half Way House is not that much different than prison. In fact, you can argue that it is worse, because in many cases, the people having dominion over you are for the most part, minimum wage employees who can’t get any kind of real law enforcement jobs. And there is little to no real or valuable support and assistance for residents to aid in their re-entry.Some of the workers lord their positions over the residents constantly and treat them like second class citizens. I would submit that this is counterproductive to creating an environment where someone who has served their sentence can successfully re-enter society.That being said, I don’t know how Michael Cohen will fare with his half way house experience. I am sure there are some half way houses in this country that do a great job. In my experience, talking to many inmates and looking at the facts as objectively as possible, many do not.Typical Half Way House Sleeping ArrangementsThis is probably what Cohen will experience:His entire stay will be closely monitored. That, they do a great job atLeaving for work, arriving at work, leaving work to return, and arriving back will be tracked and loggedCohen will not be allowed any stops to and from work, without express written permissionHe will not be allowed to go out to lunch while at work. He will take a lunch packed and provided by the halfway houseCohen’s work supervisor at his first job, will be initially interviewed and will also be periodically asked how Cohen is doingHe will be periodically checked up on at the job by a halfway house employee, in personCohen will have an assigned Half Way House work detail, in addition to his regular day job — kitchen detail, cleaning bathrooms, general cleaning, yard work, etc.He will eat three square meals a day at the Half Way House until he is placed on home confinementCohen will have to get permission and formal approval for any other “excursions”, such as — haircuts, doctor’s visits, trips to the DMV or Social Security Office — the time it will take to get there and back will be calculated and Cohen will be tracked and expected to call in when he arrives, and when he leaves to returnCohen will have to “drop urine” on demand. Even after home confinement, when called, he will have a prescribed amount of time to return and “drop”Cohen will be subjected to breathalyzer tests — usually upon returning. Alcohol is strictly forbidden while under Half Way House jurisdictionCohen will experience random searches for contraband, which is any item or material not allowed in your possession by the Half Way House. His locker will be “tossed” while he is away.Most likely, Cohen will not be allowed to have a cell phone while at the Half Way House. His specific facility may have relaxed this ruleA monthly financial statement will need to be prepared and submitted by Cohen, detailing income and expenses. The Half Way House takes 20% of his gross pay every weekFamily visits will be administered similar to when in prisonCounseling sessions will most likely be prescribed and are mandatoryCohen won’t be allowed to drive unless his license is current and he has a clean record. He will have to show proof of insurance, and that he owns the vehicle, or that the owner has allowed him to use it. The car will be thoroughly inspected, and will undergo random inspections as wellCohen will meet with his probation officer at least once during his Half Way House timeOn the plus side, the food in the halfway house will most probably be good, although not necessarily plentiful. After all, there are many mouths to feed.A Half Way House Food Line — this one was good!Residents BewareAny violations of rules may result in his Half Way House term being violated and he will be returned to prison to serve the remaining time.One Saturday morning, as I was having breakfast at the Half Way House before being released to home confinement, the US Marshals showed up. They took one of the guys at our table back to prison, in handcuffs, to serve out the remainder of his sentence. The Marshals were not happy campers and showed it. They’d much rather be chasing fugitives ala Tommy Lee Jones…His violation? He had stopped on his way back to the Half Way House from work to buy an ice cream cone.They mean business…Home ConfinementSoon after arriving at the Half Way House, Cohen should be doing all he can to receive “home confinement” status. Assuming his family agrees to take him back in the home (not always a slam dunk), this should be Cohen’s primary objective in order to reclaim some semblance of normalcy in his life.Half Way House time sucks. Big time.The quicker you leave, the better off you are.A job is the primary requirement to earn home confinement status. If he has one already lined up before he arrives, then he is “half way” home (excuse the intended pun).The other requirements are:Continue to obey all Half Way House and BOP rules. One needs to remember, even while at a Half Way House, you are still under BOP jurisdiction. You are serving out the last 6 (or less) months of your sentenceStay clean and soberAttend prescribed individual or group counseling sessions if applicableMaintain your work statusInstall a separate land line in your home with no call forwarding, so that the Half Way House can always reach you. And you can’t “fool” them by forwarding that line to wherever you may “unauthorizedly” beReport to the Half Way House immediately when called for any reasonAnswer the separate land line when they call — in my case, they would call at least twice a day, every day, with one at 2 AM every morningPay the Half Way House 20% of your pay once you start a job, for the duration of your termContinue to submit monthly financial statementsDo not associate with anyone having a criminal record. Report any encounter to the Half Way HouseReport any encounter with law enforcementDo not drive a motor vehicle unless you have been authorized to do soRequest written permission for any time to be away from home or work — including haircuts, attending religious ceremonies, or doctor visits. Once granted an excursion, you must abide by the times allotted for the trips. And you must call when you leave, call when you arrive, call again when you are departing for home, and call when you arrive homeAll of these restrictions and requirements continued for me even after I was put on home confinement. For the whole 6 months of my term. It’s possible that rules have changed or have been relaxed by the time Cohen begins his home confinement.Back to the Real worldMichael Cohen was disbarred by the New York state Supreme Court in Manhattan on February 28th. Having lost his law license, he will most probably never get it back and will no longer be able to practice his trade. He could try, but chances are, he will not prevail.I know many disbarred attorneys under similar circumstances, that have tried to get their licenses reinstated. Despite obtaining many letters of support from other attorneys and people in the community, they have not succeeded.Life after a felony conviction is different. Obvious, right? There are many things you most definitely won’t ever be able to do, and others that you can’t do, either temporarily, or until some action is taken to remove the restriction.For example:Voting — some states allow felons to vote, others require a petitionOwning a gun — at the present time, only a Presidential pardon or commutation can restore this Constitutional rightHolding certain offices — I don’t know the specifics of his sentence, but he may not be able to run for, or hold certain offices. The terms of my conviction bar me from ever becoming a Corporate officer or serving as a member of the board for a public companyBeing hired by certain companies — some opportunities will be forever closed to you. Some companies maintain a policy of not employing convicted felons. Period.Some will tell you that a felony conviction does not immediately disqualify you, but the reality is, you get nowhere when you try to seek employment with these companiesRejection by social or community groups, associations, and clubsDisapproval for certain financial transactions or for creditAs he faces these, and encounters other difficulties related to the stigmatization associated with being a convicted felon, he will be serving the other terms of his conviction.Being snubbed by former acquaintances and “friends” is something else Cohen should be prepared for. There are people that were close “friends”, of the fair weather variety, while you were flying high. Now they won’t have anything to do with you. For the most part, Cohen will be better off not having these kinds of people as “friends”.The terms of Cohen’s sentence includes a probationary period where he will have to report weekly to a parole officer, more commonly, a Probation Officer.Missouri Department of Corrections — A PO Meeting With a ParoleeAnd let’s not forget about the $1.39 million in restitution, $500,000 in forfeiture and $100,000 in fines. Those are obligations he must meet, if he hasn't already.By the way, during the time he is BOP custody, Cohen will most assuredly have to make agreed upon restitution payments. These will be taken out of his commissary account.Cohen’s probationary period was set at three years of supervised release. This time will be overseen by Cohen’s assigned US Probation Officer. It is likely that he will have different POs during his supervised release period.He may have community service to perform as well. I was sentenced to 200 hours of community service which took me a year and a half to complete.At the end of the first year, if he has kept all the rules and the Probation Officer has no objections, Cohen could apply for a shorter Probationary Period. There are no guarantees of getting that approved.During the probationary period, Cohen will continue to file financial reports, and must also report any encounter with law enforcement and with other convicted felons. He may also be required to attend prescribed group or individual counseling.To maintain good standing with his “PO” during the entire period, he will have to continue to be gainfully employed.It’s important to note that a violation could land him in jail, potentially to serve out the rest of his probationary period. For example, if Cohen were to lose his job, he would have to find alternative employment rather quickly or risk violating the terms of parole, and ending up in prison again.Cohen should do every and anything he can to stay on the narrow path and on the good side of his PO.Where the Rubber Meets the RoadFor Cohen, this is complete transition time now. The end game.A new life. Unless he forgot all about what earned him a prison sentence in the first place, he will have made or at least begun the transition from high flying huckster lawyer/fixer to convicted felon while serving his sentence.If he didn’t change his ways, his prison stay definitely will afford him the opportunity to keep shucking and jiving, bragging, wheeling and dealing, continuing to be a total asshole, and to actually refine and hone these skills.If he has the right attitude and resolve, the full transition he has to make is from Federal Inmate to regular human being.Is he capable of that?We are all capable. But for numerous reasons, some of us succeed and some of us fail. We continue the same foolhardy mistakes over and over.Groundhog day…Given the high rate of recidivism among Federal Felons (anywhere from 16% to over 80% depending on factors such as age, education and type of crime), some fall again. And they return to the warm, cozy confines of jail.It will be up to Cohen, and Cohen alone which way his life goes, and which path he decides to take.In the end, perhaps now, Michael Cohen will find peace.Finding that peace is totally up to him.Just like it was to me…“It is the bungled crime that brings remorse.”― P.G. WodehouseThis is how Michael Cohen will experience prison…Visit my blog at Enrique Fiallo – Mediumor my web site at The Way - Practical and Simple Life Coaching