Articles Posted in Legal Developments

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.

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.

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

Navigating the complexities of the California criminal justice system, especially when it comes to sentencing and resentencing, can be daunting. If you or a loved one is serving a lengthy prison sentence, it is important to fully understand all possible options for relief. In this post, our Los Angeles and Orange County Criminal Defense and…

Navigating the criminal justice system can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to the intricacies of the appeals process. For those convicted of crimes in California, understanding the rights and procedures related to direct appeals is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the appeals process. This guide is particularly valuable for…

Resentencing can be a complex and pivotal aspect of the criminal justice process, particularly in California where recent legislative changes have opened new avenues for inmates to seek sentence reductions. Penal Code § 1172.1 provides a structured framework for recalling and resentencing individuals, but the pathway to achieving this relief requires a nuanced understanding of…

Introduction Assembly Bill 256 (AB 256) and the California Racial Justice Act (RJA) represent significant legislative efforts to address racial bias and discrimination within the California criminal justice system. This FAQ aims to provide comprehensive answers to common questions about these laws, focusing on their implications for criminal defense and sentencing. 1. What is the…

Introduction California’s legal landscape is ever-evolving, and recent changes to firearms enhancement laws significantly impact defendants facing charges involving firearm use. Penal Code sections 12022.5 and 12022.53 outline mandatory sentence enhancements for felonies committed with a firearm, adding years to a defendant’s sentence. However, recent amendments now grant judges discretion to strike these enhancements in…

As experienced Los Angeles and Orange County criminal defense lawyers, we are keenly aware of the profound impact that high-profile homicide cases have on those accused and their families. Our goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of these cases, offering legal insights that prospective clients might find invaluable. This article delves into the intricate…

The California Board of Parole Hearings, commonly known as the Board of Parole or BPH, is the division of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation that is responsible for determining parole suitability for inmates in California. The Board holds hearings for inmates who are serving indeterminate sentences, such as life in prison with the…