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To all our current and prospective clients: In light of the National Emergency, our office will still be operational from either our office or remotely depending on the status of events. Either way, we still answer all of our calls directly 24/7. The best way to get a hold of us would be through our office number (951) 686-4818 or email (kia@kialaw.com). Our day-to-day operations depend on the safety of our staff and the courts being open for business. Feel free to reach out to us to inquire about your case or discuss any new cases with Mr. Feyzjou at the number above. Stay safe and we remain hopeful that this too shall pass with everyone’s health and safety in mind.

FELONY CONVICTION NO LONGER A BAR TO JURY SERVICE New Criminal Law of 2020

The California State Legislature made a number of changes last term that impacts how we practice criminal law in California.

 

FELONY CONVICTION NO LONGER A BAR TO JURY SERVICE

 

  • Senate Bill 310 modified Code of Civil Procedure Section 203.
  • Under the previous rule, If you have been convicted of a felony or malfeasance in office and have not had your civil rights restored, you cannot serve as a juror.
  • Under the new rule, a felony conviction is no longer an automatic disqualification for jury service.
    • Exceptions:
      • Persons who have been convicted of a felony and are currently on parole, post-release community supervision, felony probation, or mandated supervision for the conviction of a felony.
      • Persons who are currently required to register as a sex offender pursuant to Section 290 of the Penal Code based on a felony conviction
    • Among the historical justifications for excluding felons from jury service are the belief that these individuals lack character and harbor an inherent bias, both against the government and in favor of the defendant.
    • Essentially, the new law provides for a far better cross section of the population of the area served by the court.