In April, Hochman moved to withdraw Gascón’s recommendation, arguing that he did not believe the brothers had taken full responsibility for their crimes. This move was then rejected by Judge Jesic, paving the way for this week’s hearings to take place.

The decision could lead to the release of Lyle and Erik Menendez, more than three decades after they were sent to prison for killing their parents.

Nearly three decades after Erik and Lyle Menendez were sentenced to life in prison for the murders of their parents, a California judge has reopened a door many believed would remain closed.