At Power Trial Lawyers, our criminal defense attorneys represent individuals who are facing criminal prosecution or are being considered for resentencing. In this article, we will discuss resentencing pursuant to Penal Code 1170(d) in context of the court’s decision in People v. Heard.
1. What is the People v. Heard case about?
Answer: The People v. Heard case is pivotal in California juvenile sentencing law. It involves a juvenile offender, Frank Heard, sentenced to 23 years plus 80 years to life for crimes committed at ages 15 and 16. Heard filed a petition under Penal Code §1170(d)(1), which allows juveniles sentenced to life without parole to seek resentencing after serving 15 years. The Court of Appeal ruled that juveniles given the “functional equivalent” of life without parole could also request resentencing, ensuring equal protection under California law. This case is crucial for California criminal defense attorneys handling juvenile cases.