Why a Conviction Isn’t the End: Two Cases That Prove You Should Never Give Up
Why a Conviction Isn’t the End: Two Cases That Prove You Should Never Give Up Being convicted of a crime after a trial can feel like the end of the road. But in reality, it often isn’t. Appellate courts regularly review trial records for serious legal errors, and when those errors affect fairness, convictions can be reversed and cases sent back for a new trial. Two California cases—In re Melson and People…
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How People v. Valencia Could Help Accused Individuals Facing Serious Charges
How People v. Valencia Could Help Accused Individuals Facing Serious Charges At Wallin & Klarich, we often remind clients that even after a conviction, the law still provides important protections during sentencing. Courts must follow strict rules when calculating prison terms, especially in cases involving multiple charges and enhancements. A recent appellate decision, People v. Valencia, shows how sentencing errors can lead to a new sentencing hearing—and potentially a reduced…
Read MoreRacially Charged Police Remarks Can Open the Door to a New Hearing—and Possibly a Reversed Conviction
Racially Charged Police Remarks Can Open the Door to a New Hearing—and Possibly a Reversed Conviction When police officers allow racial bias to influence their decisions, the consequences can extend far beyond an unlawful stop or an improper search. Under California’s Racial Justice Act (RJA), racially charged remarks—whether spoken during a traffic stop or written into a police report—can form the basis for meaningful postconviction relief, including a new evidentiary…
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Veteran Wins Appeal for Resentencing Under California Law
Veteran Wins Appeal for Resentencing Under California Law When you or a loved one is facing a lengthy prison sentence, it can feel like there is no hope for a second chance. But as the case of Eric Hayde shows, the law provides opportunities for resentencing — and having the right legal team on your side can make all the difference. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich…
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Appeals Court Allows Man to Withdraw Guilty Plea After Lawyer Failed to Explain Immigration Consequences
Appeals Court Allows Man to Withdraw Guilty Plea After Lawyer Failed to Explain Immigration Consequences At Wallin & Klarich, we know how devastating it can be when a guilty plea leads to unexpected immigration consequences. Recently, a man won his appeal after the court found that his original attorney failed to properly advise him about the risk of deportation before pleading guilty to a felony. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys…
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It May Not Be Too Late to Appeal Your Criminal Conviction
It May Not Be Too Late to Appeal Your Criminal Conviction At Wallin & Klarich, we’ve represented thousands of clients who feared their criminal case was over after a conviction. Many of them asked: Is it too late to appeal? The truth is, as the recent reversal in the Etan Patz case shows—sometimes, it’s not too late at all. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide…
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Setting Aside a Guilty Plea Due to Mental Unfitness: What You Need to Know
Setting Aside a Guilty Plea Due to Mental Unfitness: What You Need to Know Plea bargains are common practice in our legal system, but there are circumstances where a guilty plea might be deemed invalid or unjust. One such circumstance involves mental unfitness or impairment that prevented the defendant from fully understanding the consequences of their plea. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through…
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Understanding Your Rights Under California Penal Code 1172.1: A New Path to Resentencing
Understanding Your Rights Under California Penal Code 1172.1: A New Path to Resentencing In California's evolving criminal justice landscape, recent changes have opened new doors for individuals seeking to challenge their original sentences. One of the most significant developments is California Penal Code 1172.1, which provides a pathway for felony defendants to have their sentences reconsidered when circumstances suggest the original sentence may no longer be just or appropriate. Our…
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How Criminal Appeals and Penal Code 1172.6 Can Transform Life Sentences
How Criminal Appeals and Penal Code 1172.6 Can Transform Life Sentences A recent case involving Penal Code section 1172.6 shows why criminal appeals are so crucial and how new legislation can provide hope for those serving sentences that no longer fit their actual culpability. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through the legal process. Call Wallin & Klarich today toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for…
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Why Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Matters: A Cautionary Tale from the Racial Justice Act
Why Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Matters: A Cautionary Tale from the Racial Justice Act At Wallin & Klarich, we understand that your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line when you’re facing criminal charges. That’s why having a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorney by your side isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. A recent California appellate decision involving Brandon Wagstaff shows just how much is at stake when…
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