Case Outcomes
People v. Guevara (2025)
Reversed a resentencing under Penal Code §1172.75 for ineffective assistance of counsel, where counsel failed to file promised mitigation and briefing. The decision reinforces the right to competent representation during resentencing proceedings.
Citation: People v. Guevara (2025) 116 Cal.App.5th 1081
People v. Duenas (2025)
Held that when a sentence is vacated in post-conviction proceedings, the defendant is entitled to a full resentencing that considers applicable changes in the law.
Update: Following the California Supreme Court's decision in People v. Esquivias, this case was returned to the Second District Court of Appeal for further proceedings, and the published opinion is no longer citable. It is a reminder of how quickly the law can change. We are hopeful for another positive decision from the Court of Appeal, but because litigation is ongoing, we cannot comment further.
Young v. Superior Court of Solano County (2022)
California's first published decision interpreting the Racial Justice Act's discovery provisions. The court clarified the standard for obtaining RJA discovery and remanded for reconsideration. This case ensures defendants can access relevant evidence when alleging bias in the criminal process.
Citation: Young v. Superior Court (2022) 79 Cal.App.5th 138
