Proposition 47 passed California voters in November 2014, and the aftereffects are still being experienced throughout the state. Are you wondering if you’re a Prop 47 candidate? Find out below.
If you’ve been charged with a nonviolent crime in California, whether it happened yesterday or decades ago, you may be a Prop 47 candidate.
Many felonies are now misdemeanors
Many nonviolent crimes that were previously charged as felonies or were considered “wobblers” (crimes that could be charged as either felonies or misdemeanors) are now required to be charged as misdemeanors throughout the state. For example:
- Drug possession (including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other illegal drugs)
- Shoplifting
- Check and credit fraud
- Forgery
- Theft
- Possession of stolen goods
Fine print
There is one important caveat to be aware of, though—the amount of money that has been affected as a result of the crime must not exceed $950. So if you forged a check for $950.01 or any other higher amount, unfortunately, Proposition 47 will have no effect on your case. Or if you stole something that’s worth $1,000, you’re out of luck in terms of Prop 47 being able to help you out.
Perks of the new sentencing requirements
Can you imagine the huge wave of relief that would come over you if you realized that your felony charge could be changed to a misdemeanor? If you have a misdemeanor on your record, it’s not that big of a deal. But if you have a felony, you won’t be able to vote, it’ll be a lot harder to get a steady, well-paying job, and even finding housing will be more challenging. Plus social relationships will suffer—you’ll always have to explain your record when getting to know someone, just in case he or she looks up your public record online.
Additionally, if you’re currently serving prison time or have yet to begin serving it after a conviction has been issued, you can petition for resentencing immediately. You’ll likely be released sooner that you thought possible.
I think I’m a Prop 47 candidate. What should I do now?
If you think you might fit this criteria, don’t hesitate to act now. The most important action you can take is calling a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in Prop 47 cases, such as Dan Chambers of the Chambers Law Firm. His office has been inundated with Prop 47 candidates since November 2014, so he has the experience and drive to help Prop 47 candidates reduce their charges and sentences as soon as humanly possible so they can get on with their lives.
Does that sound good to you? Schedule a free initial consultation with Dan Chambers himself by calling 714-760-4088, emailing dchambers@clfca.com, or sending an online message using the Chat box at the bottom right of this page.
