THREE STRIKES LAW

California’s Three Strikes Law has gained notoriety as one of the most punitive measures in the nation. A variety of crimes fall under the Three Strikes Law including but not limited to murder, voluntary manslaughter, attempted murder, rape, forcible sexual assault, robbery, arson, residential burglary, assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault mayhem, kidnapping, carjacking, criminal threats, dissuading a witness, and felony gang allegations. Allegations can turn non-strikes into strikes such as if felony vandalism is charged with a gang allegation. A prior strike conviction can result in the doubling of any future punishments. Two prior strikes may result in the accused facing 25-life in prison even if the current charge does not allow for a life sentence. Any strike is very serious and an experienced attorney is needed to attack not only the current charge but also to examine the past alleged strikes.