Find Out What Your Options Are by Working with an SB 1437 Attorney in Stockton CA
Many people who were unfairly sentenced via the felony murder rule in California potentially have good news. Thanks to recent changes to the law, resentencing could reduce sentences by decades. If you or a loved one was sentenced with the felony murder rule then it is time to contact an SB 1437 attorney in Stockton CA. At Chambers Law Firm we have the necessary experience to help you through this process. Call us now at 714-760-4088 to get started.
Do Any of These 3 Criteria Apply to Your Case?
While SB 1437 does not allow for everyone convicted via the felony murder rule to be resentenced, those who meet certain eligibility requirements can be resentenced. Generally speaking, the person in question would need to be fit into one of these three categories:
- They were convicted under the first-degree felony murder rule and did not have kill, intend to kill, or act as a major participant in the felony with reckless indifference to human life.
- They were convicted as an accomplish to a “target” crime under the second-degree felony murder and did not kill or act with malice in the killing.
- They were convicted of second-degree murder.
Do one of these three categories cover the case you are concerned about? If so, that does not necessarily mean that the case is automatically eligible but it is a good sign. If you are not sure if one of these categories applies then you can contact your trial and / or appeal attorney to find out, talk to an SB 1437 attorney in Stockton CA who is experienced in these cases, or review the sentencing requirements the judge read at the trail to see what type of crime the case involved.
There Are Several Steps Involved in Applying for Resentencing
A person is not automatically resentenced if their case falls under the changes made by the legislature. Instead, they must fill out a petition and submit declarations regarding their conviction. Copies of those documents must then be sent either to the District Attorney or Attorney General – whichever office handled the original case. Copies must also be sent to either the Office of the Public Defender or an SB 1437 attorney in Stockton CA.
It is worth mentioning that a person who was sentenced to life without parole after conviction of felony murder with “special circumstances” may still be eligible. We always suggest talking to an attorney about your individual case before deciding that you are not eligible.
An SB 1437 Attorney in Stockton CA Can Help You Decide How to Proceed
The truth of the matter is that the rules outlining SB 1437 are complex – and they are also new. As a result, it is not always clear how the courts will interpret the law. For this and many other reasons, it is best to work with an SB 1437 attorney in Stockton CA. You can contact an experienced lawyer by reaching out to Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free initial consultation.
