The Three Strikes Law in California is not difficult to understand, yet it is quite serious. A person who is convicted of certain crimes in California receives a “strike” on his or her record, according to state law. Every individual is granted three strikes, and after obtaining the third strike – being convicted of a third felony – the offender is sentenced to life in prison, typically without the possibility of release.
You’re out if you get three strikes, much as in baseball
The three strikes rule was enacted to deal with chronic offenders, or those who continue to get into legal problems despite having been given two opportunities to change their ways by the court. The statute was enacted in California in the intention of deterring repeat criminals from committing other crimes by removing them from society.
What are the benefits of a “three strikes” law?
As one might imagine, supporters of the Three Strikes Legislation feel that enacting such a law is in the public’s best interests. Law enforcement and the judicial system prioritize public safety because they are there to protect the public, and the more persistent criminals on the streets, the less safe the streets are.
Those who oppose the legislation, on the other hand, look at the law’s negative consequences, such as destroying the lives and families of defendants – defendants who may have made errors and required assistance in other areas but were unable to receive it because they were sentenced to prison. There are some occasions when incarceration is not the best option.
Three strikes cases criminal defense
While the courts may feel that “habitual” or “repeat” criminals are unworthy of assistance or a second opportunity, we at Simmons Wagner, LLP believe that everyone deserves a second shot, regardless of the charges or the number of felonies on their record.
Whether our clients are facing charges and a potential conviction for a first or third felony, we fight diligently on their behalf and utilize all of my expertise, skills, and knowledge to craft a plan that can best assist them avoid a conviction that leads to a strike.
Call for help today
If you or someone you know is facing a three-strike charge, don’t hesitate to contact me or one of my legal offices for a private assessment of your situation. As a staunch believer in recognizing that we are just human, and that humans make errors, I support repealing California’s three strikes rule, and I feel it is past time for us to work together to find a better solution.
Until then, the sooner we can talk about the charges against you, the greater chance we’ll have of putting together a strong defense and avoiding the three strikes penalty. Contact Simmons Wagner, LLP at (949) 439-5857 for a free legal consultation.