Criminal Law State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
Costa Mesa Criminal Defense Attorney
Aggressive Representation for the Criminally Accused
Have you been charged with a crime, or are you the subject of a criminal investigation? The outcome of your case will almost certainly impact your reputation, freedom, and future. You need a seasoned lawyer who has what it takes to protect your rights and fight effectively for the best possible outcome.
When you hire The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman to represent you, you put a California State Bar-certified criminal law specialist on your side. Our founder, Attorney Jacqueline Goodman, has decades of experience handling high-stakes cases and a strong record of securing dismissals, reductions, and favorable verdicts. Her skilled trial advocacy and ethical defense strategies have earned her the respect of prosecutors, judges, and peers, and she works directly with clients from beginning to end. No matter the severity or complexity of your charges, we can provide hands-on, client-focused, and results-driven representation throughout each stage of the legal process.
We can meet with you virtually and are available 24/7, so don’t wait to explore your defense options. Call (657) 571-2266 or contact us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation with our Costa Mesa criminal defense lawyer. Se habla español.
Real Acquittals, Time and Time Again
30 Years of Proven Results
-
Ended Sex Registration 290 Sex Offender Registration
Relief for yet another client who no longer has to register as a sex offender.
-
Case Rejected Assault With A Deadly Weapon
Strike felonies including assault with a deadly weapon – car with great bodily injury.
-
Case 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.
-
Case Dismissed Battery and Corporal Injury
243(e)(1) Battery/273.5 Corporal Injury of Spouse in Long Beach.
-
Case Dismissed Child Endangerment/ Cruelty
Penal Code 273a(b) Child endangerment/cruelty.
-
Case Dismissed Child Sex Abuse
Child Sex Abuse case dismissed.
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!
Your Experience Matters
Five-Star Client Reviews
-
“Amazing lawyer. Excellent staff. If you are in some trouble and need someone that will fight for you and actually put in 110% effort into your case, Jacqueline Goodman is the one.”- Kody E.
-
“I reached out to Jacqueline Goodman after shopping around and getting expensive quotes for an expungement. Her office was very helpful and informative. My needs were met and I am extremely happy.”- Mike L.
-
“Extraordinary dedication, compassion, and expertise. When I had lost all hope, she fought tirelessly to achieve the best outcome, proving her commitment not only as a skilled attorney but as someone who truly cares about her clients.”- Erlinda B.
-
“She took the time to understand our concerns and worries. She got me the best deal, and I walked away with probation and a new look at life. She never gave up and always told me jail was not an option for her, as I had a family to support.”- Joe G.
-
“Couldn’t have asked for a better attorney than Jacqueline Goodman. She was there since day one to answer all my questions when I needed her guidance. I 100% recommend her professionalism/honesty. Do not hesitate to call her!”- Debbie W.
-
“I cannot say enough positive things about Jacqueline Goodman. She is an excellent attorney who is persistent, committed, and extremely knowledgeable. She listens, is compassionate, and has shown a genuine interest in my well-being.”- Former Client
-
“Jacqueline Goodman is THE BEST! I highly recommend her. She is timely, structured, intellectually gifted, with an extremely strong knowledge of law. I am grateful and feel blessed to have chosen this law firm.”- Dave C.
-
“She took care of my cases with tenacity, professionalism, experience, and care. She handled all my cases (that I've had hanging over my head for twenty years) in a few months. I asked for a reduction, and she got them expunged!”- Rick B.
-
“She gave me hope and peace of mind with how clearly she explained the situation, especially because it was my first time seeking a lawyer. If you are looking for a lawyer who is trustworthy, empathetic, and professional, she is the one!”- Estela H.
A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.
In the News
We Can Defend Against Many Types of Misdemeanor & Felony Charges
Don’t underestimate the potential impact of what may seem like a minor misdemeanor charge. Any kind of criminal charge demands a strong defense. A conviction results in a criminal record, meaning, in addition to potential incarceration or fines, you could face significant obstacles to obtaining housing or employment long after you complete your initial sentence.
The breadth of our experience allows our team at The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman to effectively defend against numerous types of misdemeanor and felony charges, including those involving:
- Arson
- Domestic violence
- Drug crimes
- DUI
- Felonies
- Gang crimes
- Internet crimes
- Juvenile crimes
- Probation violations
- Sex crimes
- Terrorist and bomb threat crimes
- Theft crimes
- Violent crimes
- Weapons crimes
- White-collar crimes
-
Co-Chair Sex Crimes Defense Education
Training lawyers nationally for 14 years.
-
Criminal Trial Lawyer of the Year
Chosen by Lawyers as Best Lawyers 2026 Lawyer of the Year-Orange County
-
State Bar Certified Specialist
Awarded to specialists who have demonstrated proficiency in specified areas of law.
-
1Renowned Success Rate
When your life depends on it, you need a lawyer known for winning the toughest trials.
-
2Certified Criminal Law Specialist
Less than 1% of California Attorneys meet the rigorous standards to be certified as a specialist by the State Bar.
-
3Rated 10.0 Superb on AVVO
Our practice is world-class, but you don’t have to take our word for it. Our clients love us, and we have the ratings to prove it.
-
4Named on The Wall of Recognition at The National Constitution Center
Named on the wall of recognition at the National Constitution Center in Washington, D.C., alongside some of the greatest lawyers in the nation.
-
5Admitted to Argue Cases Before the United States Supreme Court
“For litigators, there is no greater or more elusive honor than to argue before;this Court.” – The American Bar Association
.007% of lawyers gain admission in the USSC.
As your representative, our criminal defense attorney can:
- Conduct a comprehensive investigation. We can independently investigate the details of your case, going beyond the police report. This includes visiting the scene of the alleged crime, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence that may have been overlooked or ignored by law enforcement.
- Analyze the prosecution’s evidence. We can scrutinize the evidence brought against you to identify weaknesses, inconsistencies, or procedural errors. This may allow us to challenge the validity of the prosecution’s case and move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights.
- Develop a strategic defense plan. Every case is unique. Our lawyer can craft a tailored defense strategy based on the specific facts of your situation, relevant laws, and our extensive experience in criminal defense.
- Negotiate with prosecutors. We can leverage our knowledge and reputation to negotiate directly with the prosecution. Our goal is to get your charges dismissed or reduced whenever possible.
- Represent you in court. From arraignments and bail hearings to pre-trial motions and jury trials, our attorney can serve as your fierce advocate in the courtroom. We can persuasively present your case to the judge and jury, challenging the prosecution’s narrative and defending your innocence.
- Guide you through the process. The legal system is complex and often confusing. We can keep you informed about the status of your case, explain your options clearly, and provide the counsel you need to make informed decisions about your future.
- Work to mitigate potential consequences. If a conviction is unavoidable, we can advocate for any available alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs, probation, or community service, to minimize the impact on your life and livelihood.
When your future is on the line, our attorney can fight to protect it. Call (657) 571-2266 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation now.
