Kristen J. Mason, founding attorney of Mason Appellate Law, is the author of Unlocked: How California's New Laws Are Giving Inmates a Second Chance, a clear-eyed guide to California's rapidly evolving post-conviction landscape. The paperback edition was published on October 22, 2025 — and it arrives at exactly the right moment for people seeking clarity, and a path forward, under California's new reforms.
Why This Book — and Why Now
In just a few years, California has reshaped major parts of its criminal justice system. New statutes have opened doors that didn't exist before, especially for people seeking relief after conviction. Unlocked demystifies what those changes mean in real cases, translating legal reforms into plain language and practical steps.
The book spotlights laws including:
- SB 1437 — felony-murder reform and avenues to challenge murder convictions
- SB 81 — guidance for striking enhancements in the interests of justice
- AB 333 — higher standards and new defenses for gang allegations and enhancements
- SB 483 — retroactive relief from certain sentence enhancements
- California Racial Justice Act — tools to raise and litigate racial bias claims
While no post-conviction petition is easy to win, Unlocked gives readers a grounded understanding of what these reforms actually do, who may qualify, and how to think about next steps.
What You'll Find Inside
- Straightforward explanations of the most important new laws — without legal jargon.
- Issue-by-issue chapters on resentencing, early release, racial bias claims, innocence review, and more.
- Practical framing for families, advocates, and incarcerated people: what to gather, what to expect, and where relief may be possible.
- Context, not hype — so readers can make informed decisions about whether and how to pursue relief.
Who the Book Is For
- Incarcerated people exploring options under California's new laws
- Families and supporters seeking to understand realistic paths forward
- Community advocates and organizers helping clients navigate relief
- Law students and practitioners who want a concise orientation to recent reforms
Unlocked is available in paperback. It is a resource to help you spot issues and understand the law; it is not a substitute for legal advice tailored to your case. To discuss a California appeal or post-conviction case, call Mason Appellate Law or use the contact form below.