Three Strikes Law: Criminal Defense in California

Facing a charge that qualifies as a “strike offense” under California's Three Strikes Law is understandably concerning—especially if it's not your first “strike.” The prospect of prolonged prison time and limited parole options means your future and your family's future are very much at stake. In the Central Valley, prosecutors in Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, Fair Oaks, and other locations can be especially aggressive in pursuing convictions for strike offenses. If you're in this situation, the need for an experienced criminal defense attorney could not be greater.

The Law Firm of David J. Cramer has more than two decades of local experience in the courtrooms of Sacramento and beyond. I will work tirelessly and aggressively on your behalf to defend against strike offenses and protect your future.

What is California's Three Strikes Law?

California's Three Strikes Law imposes harsher sentencing on repeat offenders convicted of certain serious or violent felonies. This law mandates longer prison terms for individuals with prior convictions of “strike offenses,” aiming to deter subsequent offenses but often resulting in life-altering penalties. Under the Three Strikes Law, a second strike results in double the normal sentence for the current conviction. A third strike can lead to a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life.

What Crimes Count as “Strike Offenses”?

A range of serious and violent felonies are classified as “strike offenses” in California, including but not limited to:

• Murder or attempted murder

• Manslaughter

• Robbery

• Sexual assault and certain sex crimes

• Arson

• Kidnapping

• Certain types of burglary (especially first-degree)

• Any felony involving great bodily injury or the use of a firearm

Roseville, CA Criminal Defense Attorney for Strike Offenses

Facing a strike offense means you're at risk of enhanced sentencing and long-term consequences that could impact you and your family. When facing strike offense charges in the Central Valley region, your best hope of minimizing these risks is to hire a skilled criminal defense attorney with plenty of experience in local courthouses. I will leverage my 21-plus years of experience to build a defense strategy that is most likely to get you a favorable outcome, including, but not limited to:

• Challenging the evidence

• Pre-trial motions, including moving for dismissal

• Challenging prior strikes

• Negotiating for reduced charges (i.e., “non-strike” offenses)

• Direct, aggressive defense at trial, if necessary

If you're charged with a “strike offense” under the Three Strikes Law, too much is at stake to leave your defense to just anyone. Let me put my experience to work for you. For skilled criminal defense in Sacramento, Placerville, Jackson, Citrus Heights, Orangevale, or throughout the Sacramento Valley, contact the Law Firm of David J. Cramer today using our online form.