

Understanding California's Three Strikes Law
What It Is and How It Impacts the Accused
California’s Three Strikes law is one of the most controversial and impactful legal frameworks in the state’s criminal justice system. Designed to deter repeat offenders, it imposes increasingly severe penalties for those convicted of multiple serious or violent felonies. While intended to reduce crime, the law has had far-reaching consequences for individuals accused of crimes, including life-altering penalties that may not always fit the circumstances. Here’s what you need to know about this law and how David Canty, a seasoned criminal defense attorney with more than 20 years of experience, can provide strategic representation to protect your rights.
What Is California’s Three Strikes Law?
Enacted in 1994, California’s Three Strikes law mandates heightened sentencing for individuals convicted of multiple felonies classified as serious or violent. Here’s how it works:
- First Strike: If convicted of a serious or violent felony, this is the first strike.
- Second Strike: A second conviction for a serious or violent felony results in a sentence that is double the usual term.
- Third Strike: A third strike for any felony, even non-violent ones in some cases, could result in a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
While reforms like Proposition 36 (passed in 2012) have softened some aspects—making third strikes applicable only to serious or violent felonies—it remains a harsh system for many.
The Impact of California’s Three Strikes Law on the Accused
California’s Three Strikes law has had profound implications, often resulting in disproportionately severe penalties for individuals. Common issues include:
- Overly Harsh Sentences: Non-violent offenders, such as those convicted of minor thefts, have faced life sentences due to third-strike convictions.
- Pressure to Plead Guilty: Defendants facing the possibility of a second or third strike may feel coerced into plea bargains, even when they have viable defenses.
- Long-Term Consequences: A strike on your record can affect employment, housing, and future legal outcomes, creating lifelong challenges.
Without skilled legal representation, individuals accused under this law often find themselves facing an uphill battle against a system designed to impose harsh penalties.
How David Canty Can Help
With over two decades of experience in criminal defense proceedings, David Canty has a proven track record of fighting for clients accused under California’s Three Strikes law. Here’s how he can make a difference:
- Strategic Defense Planning: David analyzes every aspect of the charges, evidence, and prior convictions to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Sentence Reduction Advocacy: If a third strike is on the table, he fights to have charges reclassified to avoid life sentences.
- Expungements and Appeals: For past convictions, David works to clean up records where eligible, mitigating the long-term impact of strikes.
- Personalized Support: Understanding the stress and stakes involved, David provides compassionate and personalized support to guide clients through every step of the process.
Don’t Face California’s Three Strikes Law Alone
If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime in California and are at risk of a second or third strike, time is of the essence. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but with David Canty’s experience and dedication, you have a fierce advocate on your side.
Contact the Law Office of David Canty, PC, today to schedule a consultation and start building a defense tailored to protect your rights and your future. Together, we can challenge the system and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Schedule an Appointment for a Free Consultation
If you need help regarding California Racial Justice Act in Pomona or surrounding area, don’t wait to seek legal representation. With offices in Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, West Covina, and Riverside, David Canty is ready to fight for you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complex legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
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