Sheri R. Sandecki

15+ Year Law Practice with an Emphasis on Criminal Defense, including Extensive Work in the Veterans, Homeless, Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol (DUI) Courts.

California

Early on in my career, it became apparent to me that roughly 90% of the crimes committed by my clients were, in whole or in part, related to their use of drugs and/or alcohol. Therefore, the rational solution for the clients, and society as a whole, seemed to be rehabilitation programs rather than incarceration. If the underlying problem of drug and alcohol abuse could be properly addressed, then not only would the client benefit by beginning a healthy productive, sober life, but society would also benefit by reduced taxpayer costs of incarceration, social services for the children of the clients, reduced crime recidivism rates, and the jails and prisons could reserved for the serious, violent offenders. To this end, I have focused my efforts on the establishment and implementation of rehabilitation programs as an alternative to jail for those clients suffering from drug and alcohol addictions, as well as those affected by a mental health condition. Time and time again, I have had the privilege of watching a client go from the lowest point in their lives, to their first steps in sobriety, to reuniting with their children and other family members, to obtaining gainful employment, and living without the fear of the next arrest or jail stay. As the concept of "Rehabilitation Law" grows within the legal community, I am pleased and honored to be able to continue to educate others on this rational solution, as well as assist the clients, one at a time, to begin their lifelong journey of sobriety and success.

Orange County Bar Association
Orange County Women Lawyers Association
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorneys Association
California Public Defenders Association