CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM
Providing Skilled Legal Services in Orange County
Criminal justice reform is aimed at changing specific processes in the system to create greater fairness to those who are charged with or convicted of crimes. Various measures have been proposed and enacted to work toward achieving that goal, with many focusing on decreasing prison and jail populations, reducing penalties for specific crimes, and helping individuals released from incarceration readjust to society.
Criminal justice reform measures have a significant impact on many people’s lives. At The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is a strong proponent of such policies and is dedicated to taking on cases that can help change laws.
CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF JACQUELINE GOODMAN TODAY
Attorney Jacqueline Goodman fights hard to ensure that individuals facing criminal allegations receive fair trials.
Renowned Success Rate
Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
INCARCERATION REFORM
One of the major focuses of criminal justice reform is on reducing prison sentences. Typically, this means making penalties less harsh for certain crimes.
Currently, there are 124,000 people in California’s prisons and about 82,000 in its jails. The reason for the high prison and jail population in the state is likely due to a “harsh on crime” mentality that argued that the more severe punishments a person faces, the less likely they’ll be to commit a criminal offense. Unfortunately, that’s not completely accurate, and people are subjected unnecessarily lengthy incarceration sentences.
According to a report released by the National Institute of Justice, harsher penalties were not crime deterrents. It stated that if a person knows they’re likely to be caught, they’ll be less inclined to engage in criminal behavior. Additionally, time in prison can serve the opposite of its intended effect: Incarcerated individuals can learn from each other, and upon release, may be at an increased risk of committing a crime.
In 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom approved a bevy of criminal justice reform bills, including the following aimed at incarceration sentences:
- SB 136, which eliminates the 1-year sentence enhancement for each prior felony conviction a person had
- AB 484, which removes the mandatory incarceration sentence for specific drug crimes
BAIL REFORM MEASURES
Depending on the circumstances, when a person is charged with a crime, they must remain in jail until their scheduled court date – unless they can be released on bail. Unfortunately, under this bail system, that meant people who couldn’t afford the fee would have to remain in custody.
In 2018, then-Governor Jerry Brown passed a reform bill that would eliminate bail for people waiting for their trial. New processes would use an algorithm that assesses whether or not an individual is likely to return on their scheduled court date. However, the law has not been without controversy.
SOCIETY RE-ENTRY REFORM
One of the biggest challenges a person faces after they’ve been released from prison is successfully re-entering society. Having a criminal record can make it tough to find a job, get housing, or even qualify for government benefits. In some cases, a person can have their criminal record expunged, which means it is blocked from public access. However, this requires filing a petition with the court. A new reform measure automates this process, allowing qualifying offenses to be automatically sealed.
It is with tremendous thanks and a grateful heart that we let you know how much we appreciated your expertise, advice and phone calls on [client's name] behalf. You are a person of service and dedication.
- Former client’s parents
I don't know where to start. Honestly, I don't think I could possibly write anything that would come close to describing Mrs. Goodman's Skill as a Lawyer , she truly is remarkable at what she does. Do yourself a favor, if your in a bind, and are looking for a well respected lawyer that can produce results.... Call Jacqueline! I…
- Sharif A.
Ms Goodman and her staff were beyond helpful. I was in an extremely difficult situation that I hadn’t been in before and needed help. I was referred to Jackie and her office who were extremely helpful. Jackie and her team were extremely empathetic and knowledgeable. They were quick to respond, took action, and kept me informed. Thank you Ms Goodman…
- Nick K.
Ms.Goodman has been an amazing and thorough lawyer representing my family. She has shown up to each court date, being prepared and ready to speak to the judge. She has been a great communicator with my family and kept us informed along the way. She is authentic, and will go the long mile on your case. Choose her to represent…
- Elizabeth E.
I needed an appointment with Ms. Jacqueline Goodman and it was urgent. The best part was that she called me back immediately and I did not have to drive an hour to see her. The first meeting is free and she spoke with me for a lengthy time and she made me feel like for the first time in seeking…
- Mary P.
Ms Goodman was excellent an very professional. She took the time to understand our concerns an worries. I had 2 really bad cases facing 10+ years for trafficking, sales, an distribution between the both ... she was able to get me the best deal an walked away with probation an a new look at life. I will always recommend her…
- Joe G.
Ms. Goodman and her team is by far the best in Southern California. I literally had zero hope of getting anything but prison time on my current case and Ms. Goodman somehow got me an interview for probation. I can say it hasn’t been easy and she’s been doing a lot out of love more than any other attorney would…
- Former Client
The court was offering 9 years for 459pc. After retaining her I got the deal I wanted and even better I was free after serving just 2 years. She's an amazing attorney that you can count on.
- Aliya J.
I can't even begin to express how amazing Jacqueline was when I worked with her for a close friend's case. She was always a quick text away, and when we worried she was the vote of confidence we needed to keep going. Her office staff was also SO easy to work with. Her closing statement moved me, the family, and…
- Caleigha C.
Best lawyer! Jacqueline Goodman is an amazing lawyer, she knows her law well. She helped my brother out of a messy situation and she was always easy to contact and gave me all the information that came her way.
- Rosie C.
Jacqueline, was very professional, and knowledgeable. She listened closely, as we discussed my case. I could tell She truly cared about me. I was very pleased the outcome, and would strongly recommend Her. Honest, hard working, and compassion, would describe, Jacquie.
- Dorian C.
Ms. Jacqueline Goodman was a beacon of hope to my daughter at a time when options and hope seemed limited. Her hard work and dedication was an outcome of Excellence. Ms. Goodman’s attention to detail and knowledge of laws are truly unsurpassed. Thank you.
- Ralph S.
Jacqueline is the best! If any of my friends or family found themselves in a situation where they needed a Criminal Defense attorney I would highly recommend her. She and her staff are extremely professional and they know their stuff. I can't say enough good things!
- Travis H.
She was carring and attentive, always up front with information. She truly cares about her clients and works diligently to achieve the best possible outcome. My family and I truly admire and respect this amazing and talented lawyer. She is definitely someone you can count on for the best advice and outcome.
- Chip E.
Great attorney to work with. She's a boss and has some serious attorney swagger. When I walked into the court room with her, everybody stopped and starred. I felt like I was getting represented by a superstar attorney. She'll run circles around any DA.