Recent changes to California law have created new opportunities for individuals previously sentenced to long prison terms. These reforms offer real hope to families and open the door to revisiting cases that may now qualify for a reduced sentence. But these opportunities are not automatic; they require a formal legal process, a clear understanding of the new statutes, and a strong argument presented to the court.
At Law Office of Christopher Loethen, I guide clients through this process with a focused and thorough approach. I review the original conviction in detail, comparing the facts and sentence against what the current law allows. I provide direct and honest communication about eligibility and the steps involved.
My goal is to build a strong, fact-based case for your second chance and present it with the strength and clarity needed to be heard. This is about more than legal paperwork; it’s about your life, future, and chance to move forward.
Schedule a free consultation with a re-sentencing attorney in Merced, CA. Call me at (209) 546-6192 or contact my firm online to get started.
Understanding How Sentence Modification Works in California
Sentence modification is a formal legal process that allows the court to re-examine and reduce a previously imposed sentence. California has passed laws to correct sentencing practices that are now considered excessive or unjust. These changes have created specific legal pathways for relief, but they must be pursued through a petition or motion that clearly shows how the new law applies to the original case.
When pursuing one of these matters, I begin by analyzing the details of your conviction. I look closely at the sentence, the facts, and the legal changes that may apply to identify the legal grounds for a reduction and build a clear, fact-based argument that connects your case to today’s standards.
Whether it involves showing that a sentencing enhancement no longer applies or presenting a motion for re-sentencing to the District Attorney, I approach each case with a direct strategy and a focus on meaningful results. This process is about turning legal reform into a real opportunity for a second chance.
Are You Eligible for Re-Sentencing?
Eligibility for re-sentencing is determined by specific statutes that target different types of convictions and sentences. A successful petition must be grounded in one of these legal reforms.
At Law Office of Christopher Loethen, I am prepared to conduct a comprehensive analysis to see if your case aligns with one of these key opportunities:
Felony-murder rule reform (SB 1437 & SB 775). This allows individuals convicted of murder, but who were not the killer and did not have the intent to kill, to petition the court to have their murder conviction vacated and be re-sentenced for a lesser crime.
Elimination of sentencing enhancements (SB 136 & others). California has eliminated or granted courts the discretion to dismiss numerous sentencing enhancements, such as the one-year enhancement for a prior prison term. If your original sentence included now-invalid enhancements, you may be able to have those years removed.
Prosecutor-initiated re-sentencing (PC § 1172.1). Building on prior bills like AB 2942, this critical law allows a District Attorney to recommend that the court recall a sentence at any time if it is in the interest of justice. My work often involves presenting a strong case for mitigation and rehabilitation directly to the prosecutor's office.
Youth offender parole hearings. This law provides that individuals 25 or younger at the time of their offense are eligible for a parole hearing after serving a certain number of years, offering a meaningful chance for release based on their demonstrated growth and maturity.
If you live in the Merced area, or in the surrounding communities of Stockton or Modesto, reach out to my firm, Law Office of Christopher Loethen for a consultation if you believe you may be eligible for re-sentencing under any of these statutes.
My Approach to Your Re-Sentencing Case
Pursuing a sentence reduction is a legal process that demands precision and preparation. At Law Office of Christopher Loethen, I personally manage the critical stages of your case from start to finish. My approach is grounded in the same direct, uncompromising defense I’ve practiced since my first day as a public defender.
It begins with a thorough review of your case. I gather and examine every relevant record, from trial transcripts to prison documentation that shows rehabilitation. This allows me to build the strongest possible argument for relief. I then identify the legal basis for your petition and draft a motion that clearly explains why a new sentence is justified under current law and aligned with the principles of justice.
Whether I’m presenting your case to the District Attorney or arguing in front of a judge, my advocacy is direct, clear, and focused on one thing: your future. I never lose sight of the fact that I’m fighting for a person, not just a case file.
Contact my firm online or call (209) 546-6192 to schedule a free case consultation with a re-sentencing lawyer in Merced, CA, today.
