In a decision that could lead to more development along the coastline, the state Supreme Court on Thursday limited the California Coastal Commission’s authority to restrict or halt coastal construction that has been approved by a city or county.

The Sixth District Court of Appeal has held that a trial judge erred in dismissing criminal charges faced by a defendant who was placed on mental health diversion based on a finding that the party made “amazing progress” while in custody for a new crime spree committed during the period of supervision, declaring that a court does not have “unfettered” discretion to determine what qualifies as satisfactory performance.

The Sixth District Court of Appeal has reversed the felony conviction of a man for driving under the influence based on the prosecution’s peremptory challenge to a Hispanic prospective juror who recounted a negative experience with law enforcement but said he would be fair and impartial, finding inadequate the judge’s explanation of why he was honoring the challenge.

California lawmakers alarmed by the treatment of people brought to hospitals by federal immigration agents want to strengthen protections for detained patients receiving care at medical facilities, including by making it easier for their families and attorneys to find them.