Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

California’s SB 81 reshapes sentencing by requiring judges to dismiss most enhancements unless keeping them is necessary for public safety. This masterclass guide explains how SB 81 works, who qualifies, and how defendants can use it to reduce sentences under Penal Code § 1385(c). Learn how Power Trial Lawyers secures relief across California.

A guilty verdict in California triggers strict deadlines and critical decisions. This guide explains the top 10 mistakes defendants make after conviction and how to protect your right to a direct criminal appeal. If you or a loved one was recently convicted, learn how to avoid losing your appellate rights—and why acting quickly matters. Power Trial Lawyers represents criminal appeals clients statewide.

Understanding what happens after an arraignment in Los Angeles and Orange County criminal cases can mean the difference between conviction and dismissal. Power Trial Lawyers outlines every stage—from bail reviews to preliminary hearings, motions, plea deals, and trial strategy—helping defendants in Southern California protect their freedom and future.

A masterclass guide to the California Racial Justice Act (PC §745) and AB 256. Learn how winning petitions are built—data, comparators, experts, and narrative—to secure dismissal, new trial, charge reduction, or resentencing in Los Angeles, Orange County, and statewide. Confidential case review: 888-808-2179.

After an arraignment in Los Angeles, the real criminal defense process begins. From bail hearings to discovery and negotiations, every decision that follows can impact your freedom and your record. Power Trial Lawyers — one of Los Angeles’ top criminal defense firms — explains what happens next, step by step. Learn how preliminary hearings, motions, and strategy can make or break your case. Discover how to protect your rights, build a defense, and work with an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer who knows the local courts, prosecutors, and judges. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor, felony, or firearm-related charge, we’ll guide you through what comes after arraignment — and how to take control of your case. Call Power Trial Lawyers today at (888) 808-2179 for a confidential consultation.

The People v. Garcia (2025) ruling changed how California courts interpret VC 23640(a) mental health diversion DUI California cases.
If your DUI and other charges came from the same event, you may not qualify for mental health diversion. Learn what this means for your case and how our defense team can still help.

A wet reckless under Vehicle Code §23103.5 is a reduced charge in California DUI cases that carries lighter penalties, shorter DUI school, and less stigma than a DUI. Power Trial Lawyers fight to reduce DUI charges in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego.

CourtTV featured Attorney Matthew Barhoma analyzing a second-degree murder sentencing. See why clients across Southern California trust Power Trial Lawyers.

Understand how criminal appeals work in California. This masterclass by Power Trial Lawyers explains each stage—from filing the notice of appeal to arguing before the Court of Appeal—with insights on standards of review, post-conviction remedies, and strategic counsel selection.

California Penal Code §1001.36 offers a path to treatment instead of punishment. This guide explains how mental health diversion works in Los Angeles and Orange County, who qualifies, what evidence you need, and how Power Trial Lawyers helps clients secure dismissal and record sealing.