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juvenile LWOP

Heard offers hope for juveniles sentenced to life without parole

In recent years, the issue of juvenile life without parole (JLWOP) sentences has undergone significant legal scrutiny and reform. One notable development in this context is the case of People v. Heard, which established a new process for resentencing JLWOP offenders. This landmark decision recognized the potential for rehabilitation and reintegration, highlighting the importance of …

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california racial justice act

California Racial Justice Act: Promoting equality in criminal justice system

In a society that strives for equality and fairness, it is crucial to address the systemic biases that persist in our criminal justice system. The California Racial Justice Act (CRJA), established under California Penal Code 745, aims to eliminate racial discrimination in criminal convictions and sentences. This groundbreaking legislation prohibits the state from seeking or …

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To plea or not to plea

To plea or not to plea, that is the question: Whether it is wiser when in legal jeopardy to accept the lesser penalty without exercising your constitutional right to a trial. OK, end of Shakespeare spoof. Plea deals are an integral part of the legal process; however, an overwhelming majority of cases do not go …

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Felony murder rule resentencing

In January 2019, Senate Bill 1437 became law. This bill ended the practice of sentencing participants in a felony resulting in a death as if they were the actual killer. Now, co-defendants who were NOT the actual killers, who did not aid and abet in the killing, or who did not act with reckless indifference …

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