California's Three Strikes Law (PC §§ 667 & 1170.12) imposes draconian mandatory sentencing enhancements for repeat felony offenders. Filing a Romero motion requesting the judge strike prior strikes in the interest of justice is often the single most vital defense step.
1. The Mechanics of a Romero Motion (People v. Superior Court (Romero))
🏛️ Judicial Authority to Dismiss Strikes (PC § 1385)
Under People v. Superior Court (Romero) (1996) 13 Cal.4th 497, trial judges possess inherent statutory discretion under Penal Code § 1385 to dismiss prior strike convictions if the defendant falls outside the spirit of the Three Strikes sentencing scheme.