In California, Proposition 47 has quietly changed thousands of lives—but many people still don’t know they qualify. Passed by voters in 2014, Prop 47 reclassified certain nonviolent felonies as misdemeanors, allowing individuals with past convictions to reduce their charges and, in some cases, their jail or prison time.
At Law Office of Michael L. Fell, we help clients throughout Southern California take full advantage of Prop 47’s protections. Whether you're trying to clean up your criminal record or get out of custody early, understanding how Prop 47 works—and how to apply it to your situation—can open the door to real, lasting change.
What Does Prop 47 Actually Do?
Proposition 47 reclassifies a select group of nonviolent, non-serious felonies as misdemeanors. These crimes include:
- Petty theft (property value under $950)
- Shoplifting (under $950, including entering a commercial building with intent to steal)
- Receiving stolen property (under $950)
- Forgery and writing bad checks (under $950, unless you’re also convicted of identity theft)
- Simple drug possession (personal use quantities only)
If you were previously convicted of one of these felonies and meet the eligibility requirements, you can petition the court to have your charge reduced to a misdemeanor—even if you’ve already served your sentence.
Who Qualifies for Relief Under Prop 47?
Most people convicted of one of the eligible offenses can apply for resentencing or reclassification. However, Prop 47 does not apply if you:
- Have a prior conviction for a serious or violent felony (such as rape, murder, or child molestation)
- Are required to register as a sex offender under Penal Code § 290
- Are currently facing new felony charges or have other disqualifying circumstances
Each case is unique, and eligibility often depends on specific facts—including the dollar value of the property involved or the amount and type of drug in possession.
That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your record and guide you through the process.
How Prop 47 Can Change Your Life
Reducing a felony to a misdemeanor does more than shrink your sentence—it can completely shift your future. Here’s how:
- Restore your rights – A misdemeanor record is less damaging when applying for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.
- Improve your employability – Many employers won’t consider applicants with a felony on their record.
- Shorten or eliminate probation – Misdemeanors carry lighter probation terms than felonies.
- Remove barriers to education and loans – Felony convictions can limit access to financial aid.
- Qualify for expungement – Once your felony is reduced, you may be eligible to have the misdemeanor expunged altogether.
In some cases, clients are also released early from custody when their felony sentence is resentenced under Prop 47 guidelines.
Timing Matters—Prop 47 Relief Isn’t Automatic
One of the biggest misconceptions about Prop 47 is that it automatically changed eligible convictions. It didn’t. You must actively petition the court for relief, and there are legal steps involved in doing so.
If you were convicted before Prop 47 passed in November 2014, the deadline to file for reclassification technically expired—but courts still have discretion to hear late petitions if there’s good cause. And for newer convictions, you can still file while serving your sentence or after release.
Don’t let paperwork or outdated assumptions keep you from the second chance you deserve.
If you think you or a loved one may be eligible for relief under Prop 47, contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 today. We’ll review your criminal history, determine your eligibility, and help you take the steps to reduce your conviction and reclaim your future.