The San Bernardino Superior Court is poised to release all misdemeanor and lower-level felons from San Bernardino County jails, so long as they do not fall within one of the 13 exceptions per the Chief Justice of the State of California. This order has officially gone into effect and was expected to be mandatorily applied by no later than 5 p.m. on April 13, 2020.
Such exceptions limiting release include:
- if the defendant is charged with a violent or serious Strike offense;
- if the defendant would have to register as a sex offender if convicted; and
- numerous specific felonies, including but not limited to criminal threats, spousal abuse, felon in possession of a firearm, felony DUI.
Apparently, the District Attorney’s office will send a list of those who they feel should not be released and, presumably, a hearing will be scheduled to tackle each defendant’s circumstances on a case-by-case scenario. At that hearing, the District Attorney would have to show that the defendant represents a danger to the community or a flight risk by clear and convincing evidence. It is unknown how quickly these hearings will be calendared.
Questions About Your Eligibility for Compassionate or Early Release? Call My Office: (909) 695-0095.
If someone you love is currently being held in a San Bernardino County jail, their health and safety are at risk during this global pandemic. Contact my office to learn more about their options for compassionate or early release, as this may be the only way to safeguard their wellbeing at this time.
I have spent the past 20+ years defending locals who are facing criminal charges and convictions and now is no different. I have taken and will continue to take, every precaution to protect the rights of my clients without sacrificing or otherwise jeopardizing the health and safety of you, my staff, or anyone else involved in the legal process of seeking early release.
That being said, at this time, I am conducting all consultations via video chat, phone, or email. This will best ensure that you and your family remain safe and well without sacrificing the legal representation you need and deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact my office at (909) 695-0095 for a FREE consultation. I can also be reached online via the message form on my website.