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What Are Second And Third Strike Cases In California?

In 1994, California instituted state statutes that impose strict sentencing guidelines for repeat or habitual felony offenders. These statutes mandated that certain crimes be considered “strike” crimes. For the more serious felony convictions, a second and third strike case can result in mandatory prison, even life in prison.

San Jose Felony Defense Attorney

With the three strikes rule, the penalties for even minor multiple felony convictions such as petty theft or shoplifting can significantly increase prison sentences.

If there are two previous convictions with serious felonies or violent crimes, it reduces the chances of getting anything less than a life sentence. Obviously these statutes make it imperative for you to consult an experienced attorney to help negotiate a reduced charge if at all possible.

Violent and serious felonies are specifically listed in the state statutes, some of which include:

  • residential burglary
  • Robbery
  • Child sex abuse
  • Arson
  • Assault with a deadly weapon
  • Kidnapping
  • Criminal threats
  • Murder, attempted murder, manslaughter
  • Gang-related offenses

Consult with an experienced lawyer to understand your rights and how past convictions can affect any current charges you may be facing. In some cases we can revisit the past convictions by filing a writ or other post-conviction remedies. In many cases we can negotiate a reduced charge or sentence, possibly for both the past conviction and current charges.

Contact the Law Office of Gregory M. Alonzo for an initial no-obligation, confidential consultation to discuss your case.