MENENDEZ BROTHERS: Erik and Lyle Menendez may be released from prison before Christmas. Here’s what you need to know!

Erik and Lyle Menendez, convicted of homicide for killing their parents in 1989, may be close to leaving prison before Christmas, according to recent information. Sources linked to the case have stated that the brothers’ attorneys will appear in court on December 11, when the judge could make a crucial decision that would allow for their immediate release, according to TMZ.

The hearing date was set during a meeting on Wednesday that included Erik and Lyle’s defense team, prosecutors, and the new judge on the case, Michael V. Jesic, of the Los Angeles County Superior Court.

The defense, led by attorney Mark Geragos, plans to ask the judge to reclassify the murder conviction as involuntary manslaughter. Previous reports indicate that the prosecution is willing to consider this change. If the judge agrees, the brothers could be released immediately, as they have already served three times the maximum time for a manslaughter conviction.

There are two other legal avenues for the Menendez brothers’ release. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón is seeking a new sentence, suggesting that the judge replace the life sentence without parole with a 50-year-to-life sentence, which would make them eligible for parole immediately.

In this case, the involvement of the parole board would be necessary, a process that could take up to six months. Another alternative would be clemency granted by California Governor Gavin Newsom. Geragos has stated that he is preparing a petition for this, and if approved, Erik and Lyle could be released.

While the process is progressing, there is a possibility that the judge may postpone his decision after the hearing, which could delay the outcome. However, there is a real chance that the Menendez brothers could spend the holiday season out of prison.