LOS ANGELES SEX CRIME ATTORNEY
Comprehensive Counsel for Sex Crimes in Los Angeles and the Surrounding Areas
Being accused of and charged with a sex crime can radically change your life. A conviction may result in incarceration, fines, and the requirement to register as a sex offender. The criminal justice process associated with these cases is often complex and carries serious implications for your future. It is in your best interest to work with an experienced attorney who understands California’s sex crime laws and has a proven track record of successfully defending clients accused of these offenses.
When you choose The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, you can feel confident that Attorney Goodman will fight aggressively to protect your rights and their freedom, no matter the charges. She has decades of criminal defense experience and, having served as the Vice-Chair of the Sex Crimes Defense Seminar for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers since 2016, is especially passionate about these cases. Attorney Goodman understands that her clients are facing a difficult road ahead and will never treat them like just another case number. Her intimate understanding of each individual’s unique circumstances enables her to provide personalized, results-oriented representation designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
If you are facing these serious accusations, get in touch with a Los Angeles sex crime lawyer immediately. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling (714) 266-3945 or filling out an online contact form today.
I am committed to providing my clients with the trusted counsel and aggressive defense they deserve. I believe in redemption and helping people get second chances. I devote a significant portion of my practice to criminal justice reform and I have provided pro bono representation in impact litigation to change the laws to benefit every Californian.
No one is perfect, and everyone has flaws. A mistake should not define you, and our Orange County criminal defense attorney is ready to fight to protect your future, no matter the charges. Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is here to get you out of this difficult situation and put you back in the position you were in before your trouble started!
WHAT IS CONSIDERED A SEX CRIME IN CALIFORNIA?
In California, a variety of statutes govern different types of sex crimes. Engaging in sexually explicit conduct or unwanted touching of someone's intimate parts are illegal acts that can lead to serious criminal charges.
The seasoned Los Angeles sex crime attorney at The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman has many years of experience defending clients charged with these types of offenses, including:
- Sexual abuse. Sexual abuse involves engaging in a sexual act with the intent to harm or injure another individual.
- Sexual assault. Unwanted physical contact with someone's intimate parts constitutes sexual assault and can be prosecuted as a criminal offense.
- Rape. Rape occurs when someone has nonconsensual sexual intercourse with another person who did not consent to the act or was incapable of giving consent.
- Statutory rape. Someone commits statutory rape when they engage in sexual relations with an individual who is not yet 18 years old, as minors are unable to give consent in the state of California.
- Child pornography. Child pornography laws prohibit the possession, distribution, duplication, or advertisement of any material that depicts a person under 18 years of age participating in a sex act.
- Human trafficking. It is illegal to force, coerce, or intimidate someone into performing commercial sexual conduct.
- Prostitution. Soliciting or agreeing to engage in sexual activity for money can lead to criminal charges.
WHEN DO I HAVE TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER IN CALIFORNIA?
You only need to register as a sex offender if you plead guilty to or are convicted of a sex crime. An accusation alone does not obligate you to register, no matter the public opinion.
The rules surrounding who must register as a sex offender – and for how long – changed in 2021. In the past, anyone convicted of a sex crime would need to maintain their registration as a sex offender for life. Now, the severity of the underlying offense influences how long someone must register as a sex offender. Currently, California has a three-tiered sex offender registration system in place: Tier one requires registration for a minimum of 10 years, tier two requires registration for a minimum of 20 years, and tier three requires registration for life. Relatively minor offenses such as indecent exposure and misdemeanor sexual battery are usually considered “tier one” offenses, while the most serious crimes like rape or human trafficking of minors tend to trigger tier three requirements.
Being on the sex offender registry can bring about a multitude of negative repercussions. Prospective employers and landlords will almost certainly see a person’s sex offender status when conducting background checks, which will dramatically limit where you can live and work. Remember, though, that a simple accusation or criminal charge does not require you to register as a sex offender. Do not plead guilty or accept any sort of deal with the prosecutors involved in your case without first speaking to a legal professional.
Attorney Goodman will make every effort to help you avoid the need to register as a sex offender. If registration becomes unavoidable, a lawyer can also help you explore your options moving forward.
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"I don't know where to start. Honestly, I don't think I could possibly write anything that would come close..."- Sharif A.
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"She's an amazing attorney that you can count on."- Aliya J.
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"My family and I truly admire and respect this amazing and talented lawyer."- Chip E.
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"She really listened and asked questions and delivered advice that was very useful."- Mary P.
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"I felt like I was getting represented by a superstar attorney. She'll run circles around any DA."- Marcus W.
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"Ms. Goodman’s attention to detail and knowledge of laws are truly unsurpassed."- Ralph S.
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"If you are looking for someone that is going to put in all of their effort and fight for the outcome you want, choose her."- Former Client
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"I can't say enough good things!"- Travis H.
REAL PEOPLE. REAL RESULTS.
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CASE DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSEDCHILD ENDANGERMENT / CRUELTY
Penal Code 273a(b) Child endangerment/cruelty.
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CASE DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSED
CHILD MOLESTATION
Child molestation: Felony.
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CASE DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSED
PROBATION VIOLATION
PC 1203.2 Committing a new crime or violating any term or condition of probation.
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CASE DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSED
ATTEMPTED MURDER OF POLICE OFFICER
Los Angeles Arrest Pre-filing representation on Attempted murder of police officer, assault with a deadly weapon upon a police officer.
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CASE DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSED
CONTEMPT OF COURT ORDER
Contempt of court order by a gang member.
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CASE DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSED
CHILD SEX ABUSE CASE
Child Sex Abuse case dismissed.
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ANAHEIM, CA DUI ATTORNEY FAQ'S
Brea, CA
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Is a White Collar Crime a Federal Offense?
White-collar crimes can be charged as federal offenses for several reasons, primarily due to the nature of these offenses and the impact they can have on national or interstate commerce. Here are some reasons why white-collar crimes often fall under federal jurisdiction:
- Interstate Commerce: Many white-collar crimes involve activities that cross state lines or have a substantial impact on interstate commerce. The federal government has jurisdiction over such cases because it has the authority to regulate and oversee interstate commerce.
- National or International Scope: White-collar crimes often transcend state boundaries and may have a national or even international scope. Federal agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), are better equipped to handle cases that extend beyond individual state jurisdictions.
- Specialized Federal Agencies: Federal agencies are often specialized and have the expertise and resources to investigate and prosecute complex financial crimes. For example, the SEC deals with securities fraud, while the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) focuses on tax-related offenses.
- Protection of Federal Programs and Institutions: Some white-collar crimes involve fraud or corruption against federal programs, agencies, or institutions. Fraudulent activities targeting government programs or funds may lead to federal charges.
- Uniform Application of Laws: The federal legal system provides a uniform set of laws and regulations that can be applied consistently across the entire country. This helps ensure a standardized approach to prosecuting and sentencing white-collar offenders.
- Global Financial Markets: Crimes such as securities fraud or insider trading often affect global financial markets. The federal government is better positioned to address these issues, working in coordination with international law enforcement agencies.
- Complexity and Resources: White-collar crimes are often intricate, involving complex financial transactions, extensive paper trails, and sophisticated schemes. Federal law enforcement agencies typically have the resources, expertise, and jurisdiction to handle such intricate cases.
- Deterrence and Public Trust: Federal prosecution of white-collar crimes is seen as a deterrent, sending a strong message that the government takes financial misconduct seriously. It helps maintain public trust in financial institutions and markets.
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What is the First Offense for Possession of a Controlled Substance in California?
For the first offense of possessing a controlled substance in California, the charge has been reduced to a misdemeanor, thanks to Proposition 47. This law means you'll likely face a maximum sentence of up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. However, the severity can still vary depending on the specific type and amount of drug possessed, with certain substances potentially enhancing the charge or adding additional penalties. Remember, this is just a general overview, and it's always best to consult with an attorney to assess your situation precisely. -
Lewd acts with a minorAny sort of sex crime involving a child under the age of 14 can be classified as a violent crime, even when no force or threat is involved. It is a legal tactic adopted by California criminal courts to allow prosecutors to push for inordinately severe penalties against child sex offenders.
WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF A SEX CRIME CONVICTION IN CALIFORNIA?
Whether a sex crime is charged as a misdemeanor or felony, a conviction can result in severe penalties that adversely impact your freedom, reputation, and ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities. A conviction can lead to significant jail or prison time as well as costly fines.
Misdemeanors are usually punished by up to 6 months behind bars, whereas felony convictions can result in up to 4 years in prison. Rape is one of the most serious offenses and carries a potential sentence of 13 years.
Even if you are only incarcerated for a relatively brief period of time, most individuals convicted of sex crimes in California are obligated to register as sex offenders. This means providing personal information to law enforcement agencies that will likely appear on background checks and may be publicly accessible.
For more severe offenses, this requirement can last for life, which is why hiring a skilled Los Angeles sex crime lawyer to defend your rights is so important.
