The commutations are part of 1,100 pardons granted by Governor Brown.
California has long held a reputation as a “tough on crime” state. But in 2011, the United States Supreme Court ruled that its overcrowded state prisons were the equivalent of cruel and unusual punishment. This decision has led to a series of criminal justice reforms that ultimately reduced the prison population significantly. These reforms have included a number of recent changes, including moves to re-classify certain criminal offenses.
Governor Jerry Brown has stood out among California governors in terms of issuing pardons and commutations. He has issued more than 1,100 pardons, compared to just 15 pardons granted by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and 0 by Governor Gray Davis.
He recently has courted controversy by issuing commutations for 20 individuals convicted of murder. Unlike pardons, which restore many of the rights lost after a criminal conviction, a commutation grants a parole hearing to an incarcerated individual who would otherwise not be eligible for parole. A commutation is effectively a reduction in sentence, giving the person the possibility of receiving parole after being sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Governor Brown has issued 82 commutations during his time in office. He has also approved parole for more than 2,300 people sentenced to life in prison for murder.
These commutations have been highly controversial amount victims’ rights advocates and law enforcement groups. However, criminal justice reform groups have applauded the move. They have noted that in the past, people convicted of similar crimes would have an opportunity to get out of prison after a period of time. Moreover, people should have a chance to rehabilitate themselves and redeem themselves.
According to an experienced Riverside criminal defense lawyer, while pardons and commutations are rare, they are incredibly beneficial. There are three ways to obtain a pardon from the governor in California. First, a person can apply for a Certificate of rehabilitation from the superior court. Second, a person can file an application directly with the governor’s office. Third, a person currently in prison can receive a recommendation for a person from the California Board of Parole Hearings. A skilled Riverside criminal defense lawyer can help you determine if you are eligible for a pardon based on the type of offense that you have been convicted of, and other factors.
At the Chambers Law Firm, we are advocates for our clients and for the types of common sense criminal justice reform that will protect all Californians. We will work with our clients to help them seek pardons and other forms of justice if they have been convicted of a crime. We will also aggressively defend them against all criminal charges. If you have been charged with or convicted of a California criminal offense, we can help. Contact our office today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation today.
