California’s Three Strikes Law treats serious and violent crimes as strikes. If convicted of a crime that falls under this sentencing scheme, you face a lengthy prison sentence and a prior conviction that will enhance any future sentence. If you are charged with such a crime, you should immediately contact an experienced criminal lawyer here at O’Connor Law APC for assistance.
California’s Three Strikes Law is one of the most severe sentencing laws in the country. Originally enacted in 1994, the law was designed to target repeat offenders by significantly increasing prison sentences for individuals convicted of multiple serious or violent felonies. Under this law, if you have one prior strike and are convicted of a second serious or violent felony, your sentence is automatically doubled. If you have two prior strikes and are convicted of a third felony—regardless of whether it is serious or violent—you could face a sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.
In 2012, voters approved Proposition 36, which revised the Three Strikes Law to impose a third strike sentence of 25-to-life only when the new felony conviction is serious or violent. However, there are important exceptions. Certain offenses, such as drug trafficking, sex crimes, or crimes involving firearms, can still trigger a third strike, even if they are not classified as violent. Additionally, individuals with certain prior convictions may be excluded from relief under Prop 36.
At O’Connor Law APC, we understand what’s at stake when you’re facing a potential third strike. A 25-to-life sentence isn’t just about time—it’s about your future, your family, and your freedom. Our legal team brings decades of experience in handling serious and violent felony cases across Contra Costa County and beyond. We know how prosecutors approach these cases, and we know how to push back.
We thoroughly analyze every aspect of your case to determine if your prior strikes qualify under current law. In many situations, we can challenge the classification of prior convictions, file motions to strike prior strikes under People v. Superior Court (Romero), or seek sentencing alternatives under Proposition 36. Whether your case calls for aggressive trial advocacy or strategic negotiation, we tailor our defense to achieve the best possible outcome.
When you work with O’Connor Law APC, you’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re hiring a team that knows how to tackle the Three Strikes system and is prepared to fight for your life and liberty.
Don’t run the risk of getting your third strike without having competent legal representation in your corner. O’Connor Law APC has effectively fought on behalf of clients facing all types of criminal charges, including violent crimes, for decades, and we stand ready to fight for you, too. You have a lot on the line–don’t leave your future to chance. Contact O’Connor Law APC for a free consultation today.
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