Revolutionizing Resentencing: The Impact of California’s Legal Reforms on Justice

• In Event: Second Look Resentencing Developments

Abstract

As California's Penal Code 1172 and AB 600 reforms take shape, an increasing number of individuals are returning to court for resentencing hearings. Each person in this growing group brings a unique journey into the criminal justice system, with their own story and circumstances leading them to seek a fresh chance through resentencing. While these cases vary widely, the legal process demands consistency in its application to ensure fairness. However, due to the recent nature of these reforms, there is still a significant gap in understanding how the resentencing process works and how it interacts with the complexities of individual cases and the consequences of implementing reforms without the infrastructure in place to ensure its success. This paper aims to fill that gap by offering an in-depth review of resentencing policies across the United States, with specific attention to the resentencing process in San Diego County, shedding light on both the mechanics and personal experiences behind this evolving legal landscape.

Authors

• Kimberly R. Kras, San Diego State University

• Erica Redner-Vera, San Diego State University

• Tereza Trejbalova, San Diego State University