How is a New District Attorney Impacting Criminal Cases?
Like all of the courts in Los Angeles County, the new head District Attorney has given directives to district attorneys who prosecute felonies.
They are to dismiss all prior strikes pending against people in criminal cases, along with all special allegations. They've also been given a significant directive related to California criminal cases: There is a presumption now.
When the District Attorney evaluates cases, each defendant should receive probation unless the District Attorney can identify an aggravating factor that makes it outside the new policy.
Even then, they cannot sentence the person to prison. They must write a letter to the Bureau Chief in the District Attorney's office explaining why they think the case is worth prison. Then, they get an answer back, and they decide what to do.
Long story short, as a criminal defense attorney for the past 27 years practicing in Los Angeles, I believe that that courthouse has been impacted very positively by the new directives as far as criminal defendants are concerned.
Some Judges Are Refusing to Follow New Directives
The District Attorney's office and some judges don't like what's going on. Judges, for example, have tried to block the new head prosecutor's directive and have ordered that strikes not be stricken.
They are refusing to strike special allegations. They're doing whatever they can to block the new DA, basically saying that he is not acting in the interest of justice, that his actions are political, and that they don't see any justification for it.
Probably the biggest argument against the policies in the San Fernando court and across Los Angeles County is that they're just blanket policies that do not consider each case individually to determine whether it warrants prison or probation.
New Policies Improve Chances to Avoid Prison
The bottom line is the pendulum has pretty clearly shifted in favor of defendants in criminal cases in the San Fernando courthouse. This is a crucial change because it gives people who are charged with crimes in the San Fernando Valley a fighting chance to:
- stay out of prison.
- to preserve their life,
- to preserve their criminal record, and a whole host of other things.
So, if you or a loved one has a case pending in San Fernando court, you'll need to hire an attorney like me.
With my extensive background and experience, I am well-equipped to navigate the new directives in your favor. I can help lessen any punishment, get charges dismissed, and put you in the best possible position moving forward. You can trust that you're in good hands with me.
If you have a case in the San Fernando court, don't hesitate to reach out. Schedule a meeting with me, Ron Hedding, and I'll be ready to answer all your questions. Together, we'll develop a plan to put this criminal matter behind you. Your first step to a brighter future starts with a call to me.
Hedding Law Firm is a criminal defense law firm located in LA County. We offer a free case review. Call (213) 542-0940 or fill out our contact form.
