Lawyers for the state appealed to a ruling of a panel of federal judges that the overcrowding in California prisons constituted a violation of the Eighth Amendment's protection against cruel and unusual punishment. The judges ordered California to release 40,000 inmates over two years. But Lawyers for the state argue that releasing so many prisoners would put Californians at risk, because there isn't currently enough money for the rehabilitation programs that released inmates would need.

The lawyers for the prisoners argue that California's prisons are housing twice as many prisoners as they were built to contain, risking the safety of prisoners, guards, and prison personnel. Donald Specter of the Prison Law Office says "prisoners are dying unnecessarily at the alarming rate of one every eight days because they do not receive basic medical care from the state.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges it is important that you have a qualified and experienced attorney on your side. Contact our office today to schedule a free face-to-face consultation. The attorneys at the Hedding law firm will work hard to get the best possible outcome for your unique case.