Most people are familiar with the basics of California’s three-strikes law that imposes harsher penalties for those who are serially convicted of certain types of violent crimes. However, many fewer people have ever heard of what is referred to by some as the “one-strike law.” Keep reading to learn what this refers to and then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you require a free legal consultation from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Basics of the One Strike Law
The one strike law, aka PC 667.61, indicates sentencing enhancements for specific sex crimes. It is referred to as the one-strike law because, unlike the three-strikes law that requires several convictions before enhancements kick in, these longer sentences apply to the first conviction of the alleged perpetrator.
Eligibility for the One Strike Law
The one strike law only applies to people convicted of specific crimes along with certain aggravating factors. The crimes apply to those convicted of rape, lewd or lascivious acts, continuous sexual abuse of a child, sodomy, or oral copulation.
The aggravating factors that can make a person eligible for the one strike law include having previously been convicted of one of the above crimes, kidnapping the alleged victim, inflicting bodily harm on the alleged victim, giving the victim a controlled substance, typing up or otherwise binding the victim, or using a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime.
The Repercussions of the One Strike Law
If a person is convicted of one of the qualifying laws and an aggravating factor was relevant then they could face a sentence extension. Generally the sentence extension will be 15 or 25 years but in a worst-case scenario, a person could face life in prison due to this law.
How to Fight the One Strike Law
If you have been accused of any sexual crime that could qualify you for the one strike law then you should work with a criminal defense attorney who has a lot of experience with sex crimes. Not just any criminal defense attorney is going to be ready to take on this task. The good news is that you have found an attorney who is.
If you are facing criminal charges that could result in you ending up in prison for the rest of your life, then you need the most experienced, aggressive, and communicative attorney around. You need Attorney Chambers. Call our offices now at 714-760-4088 to request a free legal consultation.
