Cliff Gardner: Leading Attorney for Danny Masterson's Appeal and Expert in High-Profile Criminal Defense.
Danny Masterson, the former star of That ’70s Show, has enlisted the prominent legal expertise of Cliff Gardner to handle his appeal following his conviction for rape. Masterson's case has garnered significant attention, particularly after he received a 30-year prison sentence.
Gardner’s extensive background in high-profile criminal defense includes notable cases like that of Scott Peterson, further establishing his reputation in the field of post-conviction law.
Cliff Gardner’s Legal Focus
Cliff Gardner has specialized in post-conviction work since founding his law firm in 1981 in Berkeley, California. His firm provides appellate representation and habeas corpus services at both state and federal levels. Gardner has a robust track record, having argued over 20 cases before the California Supreme Court and successfully defended clients facing capital punishment in multiple states.
In addition to his legal practice, Gardner serves as an adjunct professor of law at the University of California’s Boalt School of Law, sharing his expertise in post-conviction representation with future attorneys.
Academic Background
Cliff Gardner obtained his law degree from UCLA School of Law in 1980 after earning his undergraduate degree in Anthropology from the State University of New York at Binghamton in 1977.
Gardner’s Role in Masterson’s Appeal
Gardner was brought into Masterson’s case after a Los Angeles jury found the actor guilty of two counts of rape on May 31, 2024, following a retrial. The first trial in 2022 ended in a hung jury. Recently, Gardner requested a 30-day extension for Masterson’s appeal, focusing on any potential errors made by Judge Charlaine Olmedo during the trial. His next steps involve a thorough examination of the trial records, including some sealed transcripts.
Cliff Gardner’s Notable Cases
Gardner’s legal prowess was highlighted in his successful representation of Scott Peterson, who was convicted in 2004 for the murder of his pregnant wife, Laci. In 2020, Gardner argued that Peterson’s conviction should be overturned due to issues with jury selection and extensive media bias. The California Supreme Court unanimously agreed, citing significant errors that compromised Peterson’s right to a fair trial. As a result, Peterson was resentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Advocating for the Menendez Brothers
In addition to his work with Masterson and Peterson, Gardner is part of the legal team advocating for Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1996. Gardner submitted a habeas petition in May 2023, introducing new evidence of alleged abuse that could potentially lead to the brothers’ convictions being overturned. A press conference held in October 2024 called for a reevaluation of the case, and the L.A. District Attorney's office is currently reviewing the new information.
Cliff Gardner’s involvement in high-profile cases, including those of Danny Masterson and Scott Peterson, showcases his expertise in navigating complex legal landscapes. As he works on Masterson's appeal, his extensive background in criminal defense positions him as a key figure in ongoing discussions about justice and the legal system's integrity. The upcoming developments in both Masterson's case and the Menendez brothers' situation highlight the critical role Gardner plays in shaping their futures.
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