Three Strikes Crimes
The LAW OFFICES OF LAWRENCE WOLF have been helping individuals charged with crimes for over 40+ years. Mr. Wolf has both prosecuted and defended thousands of adults and juveniles charged with every type of felony and misdemeanor crime. Lawrence Wolf has been a pioneer in developing all forms of alternative sentencing such as house arrest and diversionary programs. He has established relationships with Judges and District Attorneys throughout Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura Counties.
The Law Offices of Lawrence Wolf has a long history of successfully handling the defense of clients charged with crimes in California.
It seems unbelievable that you could spend 25 years to life in prison for stealing a loaf of bread but it’s true. California’s controversial “three strike law”, passed in 1994, is very complex and difficult to interpret but, simply stated, it means that:
- If you have previously been convicted for committing 2 serious felonies (strikes); and
- If you are convicted for committing a third offense (possibly a misdemeanor)
- You may be sentenced to serve a minimum of 25 years in prison and a maximum of life.
It is important that you are aware that the courts will include convictions prior to the passing of the “three strike” law, convictions from other states, federal convictions and, in some cases, juvenile convictions when they add up the “strikes” against you. The most frightening possibility is that the court has the power to elevate a misdemeanor charge, such as petty theft, to a “strike” charge if you have prior felony convictions.
Some examples of strikes are as follows:
- arson
- murder
- rape
- kidnapping
- assault with a deadly weapon
- home invasion
- drug trafficking
- armed robbery
- bank robbery
- any attempted felony that would carry a life sentence in prison
For a complete list, please refer to the California penal code, sections 1192.7. (c) and 667.5. (c).
In addition, certain felonies committed by juveniles over the age of 16 are also strikes. These felonies are essentially the same as listed above. For a complete description of juvenile strikes, please refer to the California Welfare and Institutions code, section 707 (b).
You must seek the advice of an experienced California strike crime attorney if you have been charged with any crime no matter how minor you think it is. Your only defense against the California three strike law may rest on your attorney’s ability to change the present and the past.
An experienced Los Angeles three strike defense attorney may be able to successfully argue that your prior felonies were not, in fact, “strikes”. Your attorney may also convince the courts that your current charges are unwarranted.
Criminal charges can carry life changing consequences. If you or someone you know has been arrested, or is being investigated for a crime, you need immediate advice from an experienced Los Angeles strike crime defense lawyer. Protect your rights and your freedom…
Related Links
Get your questions answered - call me for your free, 20 min phone consultation (310) 277-1707.
