US v. Lopez: Ninth Circuit Holds Cal. Pen. Code § 273.5 not a Crime of Violence
On July 28, 2026, the Ninth Circuit ruled that Cal. Pen. Code § 273.5 is not a crime of violence. This practice advisory discusses the reasoning of the decision and provides advice on next steps for removal defense practitioners and criminal defenders representing noncitizens.
Why it matters
Useful as a practitioner-oriented overview from Immigrant Legal Resource Center on Removal Defense; review the source material for the most current authority and procedure.
Topics
Removal defense
Crimes and categorical approach
Workflows
Immigration court deadline
BIA, PFR, and federal court
Crim-imm screening
Forums
Court of appeals
Jurisdictions
9th Circuit