Can a Judge Give You the Upper Term in California?
A new California ruling says a judge cannot use aggravating facts found for one charge to give the upper term on another. What it means at sentencing.
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Compassionate Release in California: The Plan Comes First
A new California ruling says compassionate release can be denied when the prison system files no real release plan. What families should know.
Can Police Search My Child at School in California?
A California court says a student who refused a school search and walked away broke the law. What parents should know and tell their kids.
Racial Justice Act Resentencing: Why Statewide Data Failed
People v. Savoy says statewide race data alone will not get a gun enhancement dismissed under Penal Code 1385. What the Racial Justice Act test requires.
Brandishing a Gun at a Driver: Must the Driver Be Afraid?
People v. Ball: the California Supreme Court says brandishing a gun at a driver under Penal Code 417.3 does not require proof the driver was afraid.
Can a Judge Resentence You Without a Change in the Law?
A new California ruling, People v. Bray, says a judge acting alone under Penal Code 1172.1 needs a change in the law that applies to your sentence.
Can Prosecutors Remove a Judge Who Offers a Sentence?
A new California appeals court ruling says prosecutors can challenge a judge who offers an indicated sentence, but only before the plea is accepted.
Convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Murder? A New California Ruling Says It May Not Block a 1172.6 Petition
An October 9, 2026, California ruling says a conspiracy to commit murder conviction may not block 1172.6 relief when the jury instruction was flawed.
Moved From Room to Room During a Robbery? A New California Ruling Says That Is Not Always Kidnapping
A September 30, 2026, California ruling says moving a robbery victim around her own home was part of the robbery, not kidnapping for robbery.
Won Habeas Relief on One Part of Your Sentence? California’s Supreme Court Says That Does Not Always Mean a Full Resentencing
An August 17, 2026, California Supreme Court ruling says a habeas court can fix one part of a final sentence without a full resentencing under newer laws.
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