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Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Cruel and unusual punishment refers to punishment that fails to meet social decency standards – it is overly painful, torturous, degrading, or humiliating (e.g., disemboweling, beheading, public dissecting and burning alive) or is grossly disproportionate to the crime committed. For example, the Supreme Court, in Coker v. Georgia, 433 U.S. 584 (1977) found the death penalty cruel and unusual punishment for the rape of an adult woman – death was disproportionate to the crime.

California's Three Strikes Law has resulted in some prison sentences being ruled cruel and unusual punishment, for example, where a defendant is charged with petty theft, but because of two prior convictions gets a sentence of life imprisonment. The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution forbids cruel and unusual punishment.

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Client Reviews

At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

  • "God Bless you Stephen, wish you all the successes in life."

    Stephen is a great contact and extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I am glad that I was his client in the past. Top lawyer, top man. God Bless you Stephen, wish you all the successes in life.

    - HS Singh
  • "Don't hesitate to contact them!"

    I was referred to this group of Attorneys. I was started with a low cost made arrangements. My case had to do with assault allegations. The case was dismissed they helped me not to loose my daughter to the system.

    - Adriana C.

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  • Restitution Defendant charged in Federal case with felony Fraud involving several million dollars with a 40 years prison exposure.
  • Dismissed Defendant arrested for Spousal Battery.
  • Dismissed Defendant arrested for felony Rape.
  • Mistrial Defendant (Los Angeles photographer) charged with assault and battery.

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  • Comprehensive Defense Strategies

    We focus on the facts of the case to create a strategic defense. We work tirelessly for our clients, prepare for trial, and work toward securing the best possible outcome – whether that be a dismissal, reduction in charges, or alternative sentencing.

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    We provide step-by-step guidance throughout each phase of the process. The criminal justice system can be a confusing and frightening place, which is why we support our clients every step of the way. We provide the confidence you need to move forward.

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    At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, our defense attorneys have the ability and experience to handle even the most complex criminal cases. From misdemeanors to serious felonies, no case is too small or large for us to handle.

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