[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Newly elected Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón made waves his first week on the job by announcing and implementing policy changes that could have a dramatic effect on criminal defense law in his jurisdiction. Gascón made national headlines on Monday at his swearing in when he pledged to make major criminal justice reforms. Among these pledges include the elimination of cash bail, refusing to pursue the death penalty, and ending the practice of charging juveniles as adults. Gascón is already facing pushback on several fronts.
See the full national news story here.
Of the three major policy changes, the elimination of cash bail will have the most profound effect. The elimination of cash bail was passed as a law in 2018, but the law was never implemented. The law instead was placed before voters during the recent 2020 election as Proposition 25. California voters rejected the measure 56.4% to 43.6%, rejecting the elimination of cash bail. Los Angeles County voters rejected the measure, championed by supporters of criminal justice reform, at a slightly lower margin of 54.7% to 45.3%. LA County voters, however, elected Gascón, championed by supporters of criminal justice reform, over incumbent Jackie Lacy 53.6% to 46.4%.
The changes implemented by LA County District Attorney Gascón will need to be taken into consideration by criminal defense attorneys in Los Angeles county. The Law Offices of Scott Warmuth works with accused defendants to keep them out of jail while awaiting trial. Our defense attorneys will continue to monitor the situation and make the most optimal changes to our practice to ensure the needs of our clients are met and the rights of our clients are not violated. If you have been accused of a crime, call our law firm today at 888-517-9888. All initial consultations are free.
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