Proposition 47 has revolutionized the criminal justice system in California and prompted similar initiatives in multiple states throughout the US.
In November 2014, Proposition 47 passed California voters, creating ripple effects throughout the state. If you’ve been sentenced for a nonviolent crime anytime in the last few decades, you may be eligible to have your case reopened and resentenced.
Questions about Proposition 47 have been pouring into our office here at Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell, and we’re happy to discuss Proposition 47 in general, and as it pertains to your specific case when you schedule a complimentary initial consultation by calling 909-920-0908 or emailing torrence@torrencelhowelllaw.com.
In the meantime, to get you started, here is some pertinent information that everyone needs to know about California’s Proposition 47.
Main effects of Proposition 47
This measure reduces sentences for non-violent crimes such as drug possession, shoplifting, credit and check fraud, forgery, theft, and possession of stolen goods when the amount of money affected by the crime equals less than $950. Those who are in the process of being charged with these crimes and those who were convicted of these crimes in the past will be effected by Proposition 47.
Downgraded from felonies to misdemeanors
These crimes are now no longer felonies—they are misdemeanors. This is a big deal because if you have a felony charge on your record, your life has likely been majorly impacted. Finding a stable job and proper housing becomes much more difficult, and you’re not allowed to vote. Plus the social stigma can be heavy, especially since criminal records are publicly available online. These repercussions can vanish into thin air when a felony charge is reduced to a misdemeanor one on your record.
Investigate resentencing
If there’s even a minute possibility that a felony charge can be removed from your record, it’s worth looking into by calling 909-920-0908 or emailing torrence@torrencelhowelllaw.com to speak with the expert Proposition 47 attorney at Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell.
New penalty
Now the maximum sentence for these crimes is one year in prison, instead of the previous sentence of three years. Thousands of people serving prison time in California have now been freed or are in the process of being freed as a result of the passage of Proposition 47. If you or a loved one is currently serving prison time and the crime falls under the scope of Proposition 47, contact Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell to start the resentencing process immediately.
California’s leadership
Prison reform is one of the areas in which California is leading the nation. Instead of so much money going to lock up nonviolent offenders, the funds saved from Proposition 47 measures will now go to a fund for crime victims, education, and drug treatment and rehabilitation programs. California’s whole judicial system will benefit from the passage of Proposition 47.
To learn more about Proposition 47 and schedule an appointment to review the details of your case today, just call 909-920-0908 or email torrence@torrencelhowelllaw.com.
