Criminal
Jan. 7, 2026
Why justice requires kindness, not just conviction
Twenty years in California's criminal courts reveal a clear pattern: The system doesn't need radical overhaul--it needs practical reforms. Mental health diversion, remote appearances and reasonable continuances aren't just compassionate. They're more efficient.
Lou Shapiro
Email: LouisJShapiro@Gmail.com
Louis, a former Los Angeles County Public Defender, is a criminal defense attorney and State Bar-certified criminal law specialist out of Century City. He is also a legal analyst, board member of the California Innocence Project and Project For The Innocence at Loyola Law School, CACJ and LACBA'S Criminal Justice Executive Committee.
As we move into 2026--and into my 20th year practicing law--I do so with genuine gratitude. I truly enjoy this work. It has given me lasting friendships, meaningful experiences and countless memories that I value deeply. I'll begin with a brief acknowledgement: some of what follows calls for compassion, patience and restraint in a system that often operates under intense pressure. But after two decade...
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