Learn California's New Laws with Kristen Mason's New Book

We’re thrilled to announce the publication 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 author is CAA's very own Kristen J. Mason, the head attorney of the firm's California practice.

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.

Ms. Mason's 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 Ms. Mason's 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

  
  

About the author

Kristen J. Mason is a criminal appeals attorney at Criminal Appeals Advocates P.C. She handles direct appeals, habeas corpus writs, new‑law filings, and other post‑conviction matters for clients throughout California. Her day‑to‑day practice—and the questions she hears from clients and families—informs the book’s accessible structure and practical tone.

How to get your copy

Unlocked is available now in paperback (October 22, 2025). If you’re evaluating legal options, consider reading the relevant chapter first and then speaking with a qualified attorney about your specific circumstances. Unlocked is a resource to help you spot issues and understand the law; it is not a substitute for legal advice tailored to your case.

Please note that Ms. Mason is not available to offer free legal advice, as her time is devoted to the firm's current clients. Criminal Appeals Advocates P.C. can be reached at (424) 377-0235.