Penal Code 186.22 - The "Gang Enhancement" in California

California criminal defense attorney Michael Becker explains Penal Code 186.22 PC, what is known as the "gang enhancement" in California criminal law. More info at https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/... or call (855) 999-7755 for a free consultation. California Penal Code 186.22 PC is normally referred to as the "gang enhancement" law. This law is intended to add on an extra punishment to criminals who are convicted of committing a felony at the direction of a gang, or in order to assist a gang. When someone is convicted of a gang enhancement, they have to serve two prison sentences, one for the underlying felony (such as robbery, residential burglary, or attempted murder) and one for the gang enhancement. The gang enhancement can last from 2 years to life in prison depending on the severity of the case. In order to be convicted of a gang enhancement, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant not only committed the felony, but that the felony was committed at the direction of other gang members, or to assist a gang. Since this can often be a difficult burden of proof, there are many defenses that a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney can use to get their client's criminal charges reduced or dismissed. The best way to fight a gang enhancement charge is to fight the underlying felony. If you are not found guilty of the original felony, then there can be no gang enhancement. But even if a client is convicted of the original felony, a criminal defense attorney can still fight the gang enhancement by arguing that there is no evidence that the crime was committed to help promote a street gang. If you or a loved one is charged with a crime we invite you to contact us at Shouse Law Group. We can provide a free consultation in office or by phone. We have local offices in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Long Beach, Orange County, Ventura, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose and throughout California.