In a dramatic moment inside a packed courthouse, the brothers, infamous for murdering their parents in 1989, were resentenced to 50 years to life in prison with the possibility of parole, potentially paving the way for their release.

Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were convicted of murder in 1996 and sentenced to life without parole, now face a possible release after decades behind bars.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael V. Jesic announced his decision after just one day of emotional testimony from Menendez family members. Family members described the brothers' complete transformation during their long incarceration. They detailed the educational efforts and self-help group participation undertaken by Erik and Lyle, arguing that these actions warranted a reconsideration of their original sentence.

Judge Jesic also reviewed numerous letters submitted by corrections officers, who described the brothers as model prisoners and supported the resentencing effort. In the silent courtroom, Judge Jesic agreed that a change in sentencing was appropriate but emphasized that the decision on the brothers' actual release rested elsewhere.

"This was an absolutely horrific crime," Judge Jesic said. "I’m not suggesting they should be released. That’s not for me to decide. I do believe they have done enough over the last 35 years to get that chance."

Following the judge's ruling, Mark Geragos, attorney for the Menendez brothers, expressed optimism, stating, "We're one huge step closer to bringing the boys home."

Although Judge Jesic’s decision opens the door for the brothers' release, their immediate fate now rests with Governor Gavin Newsom and the state parole board. The parole board and governor will soon determine whether the Menendez brothers will be freed, potentially very soon.

Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman opposed the resentencing. Governor Newsom, however, allowed the court proceedings to move forward, enabling a review of the brothers' arguments, supportive letters from corrections officials, and statements from family members.

The Menendez brothers' case has drawn renewed attention due to shifting cultural attitudes toward issues raised during their original trials. Those 1990s trials—one resulting in a mistrial and another in their conviction—were broadcast live and closely watched by millions, as accusations of severe sexual abuse by their father came to light. At that time, however, such allegations were limited in court proceedings.

In recent years, the Menendez brothers have gained significant support through social media and a viral Netflix documentary released on October 7, 1994. This documentary reexamined their case and galvanized global support, particularly among younger audiences. Advocates, including influential celebrities, argued for a new hearing, pointing to outdated 1980s-era laws concerning trauma and sexual abuse, which had previously barred such considerations in criminal defenses.

Notably, Ann Burgess, a forensic expert who testified for the brothers in their initial trials, recently clarified her stance during an interview with ABC 7 News. When asked if she still believed the brothers were sexually abused, Burgess responded emphatically.

"They were more than sexually abused," Burgess said. "There was such an aura of environment, control, coercion, and psychological abuse. I had received drawings from Erik and was always amazed that many depicted him and his father in the bedroom. It was this profound fear that drove them to actions they otherwise wouldn’t take."

Erik and Lyle Menendez are scheduled to appear before the parole board on June 13 as part of Governor Newsom’s previously announced consideration of clemency, a review process initiated prior to this latest resentencing.