Sex Crime Attorney In Fullerton, CA
Have you been accused of a sex crime? Your freedom, reputation, and even your ability to access housing and employment may be at stake. These offenses are prosecuted aggressively in California, and the penalties can include jail or prison time, fines, and mandatory sex offender registration.
You should not face these allegations or criminal charges without the help of a Fullerton sex crime lawyer like Jacqueline Goodman. A seasoned legal professional can provide the guidance and advocacy you need to successfully navigate the criminal justice system and protect your future.
Attorney Jacqueline Goodman has served as the Vice-Chair of the Sex Crimes Defense Seminar for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers since 2016, and has devoted much of her firm’s resources to fighting for the rights of those accused of sex crimes in Fullerton, Orange County, and throughout CA.
She and the firm’s team are committed to fighting for the underdog. If you choose Attorney Goodman to take on your defense, you can expect tenacious, results-oriented representation built on decades of experience. You can also count on clear communication, compassionate support, and sound advice from start to finish.
Do not wait to discuss your defense options after learning about a sex crime accusation. Fill out an online contact form or call 714-879-5770 to request a consultation today.
SOMETIMES BAD THINGS HAPPENTO GOOD PEOPLE
You Need Jacqueline On Your Side
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 Constitutes a Sex Crime in California?
In California, an individual can face criminal prosecution for a wide range of sex-related offenses. Unlawful sexual acts such as sexual contact without the other person’s consent, engaging in prostitution or solicitation, and committing statutory rape are just a few of the acts prohibited under state law.
The Fullerton sex crime attorney at The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is prepared to handle cases involving many types of offenses, including:
- Sexual assault. Sexual assault occurs when one person acts without the consent of another and engages in physical contact with their intimate parts. This includes groping, fondling, or any other form of nonconsensual touching.
- Rape. Rape is defined as nonconsensual sexual intercourse between two people. It involves penetration of another person’s body without their consent, either by force, exploitation, manipulation, or ignoring a person’s inability to consent.
- Statutory rape. Statutory rape refers to scenarios where someone engages in sexual relations with a minor (someone under the age of 18). California law recognizes that minors are unable to give meaningful consent due to their young age.
- Sexual abuse. Sexual abuse is the intentional infliction of harm or injury to an individual through unwanted sexual contact. It can take many forms, including touching someone’s intimate parts without consent, forcing someone to engage in a sexual act they do not want to perform, or manipulating someone into engaging in a sexual act against their will.
- Human trafficking. Human trafficking is a form of exploitation in which victims are coerced or forced into performing commercial sexual conduct against their will. This can involve threats, intimidation tactics, economic deprivation, blackmailing victims, and more in order to control them and manipulate them into participating in activities against their will for financial gain.
- Prostitution. Prostitution involves offering or agreeing to engage in sexual activity for monetary payment.
- Child pornography. It is unlawful to possess, distribute, duplicate, or advertise any material that depicts a person under 18 years old engaged in a sex act.
Understanding California’s Sex Offender Registration Requirements
With the introduction of a new three-tier system in California in 2021, the amount of time a person must register as a sex offender following a conviction for a sex crime is in part determined by the severity of their offense.
- Tier one requires registration for a minimum of ten years
- Tier two mandates at least twenty years
- Tier three requires registration for life
Misdemeanor acts such as indecent exposure and sexual battery typically fall into the first tier, while more serious crimes like rape or human trafficking of minors are classified as tier three.
Being on the registry will almost certainly have damaging repercussions. Hiring managers and landlords will almost certainly be aware of someone’s status when conducting background checks, which could limit their opportunities to secure professional opportunities or housing.
You do not have to register if you are only accused of a sex crime. You will only be required to register if you plead guilty or are convicted. Therefore, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced attorney before pleading guilty or accepting a plea deal to any charges related to a sex crime.
Attorney Goodman has extensive experience fighting for clients facing criminal prosecution for alleged sex crimes and will leave no stone unturned in her effort to avoid an outcome that requires registering as a sex offender. If you do become obligated to register, she can help you explore your options for removing yourself from the registry in the future.
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.
- Marcus W.
Penalties for California Sex Crime Convictions
Sex crimes are some of the most serious offenses in California, and a conviction can carry severe penalties with lifelong effects. Penalties for misdemeanors usually involve up to 6 months behind bars, while felonies can result in up to 4 years in prison. For more serious offenses such as rape, convictions can lead to sentences ranging from 13 years or longer.
Additionally, individuals convicted of sex crimes in California must register as sex offenders with law enforcement agencies. This information is often publicly accessible, making it difficult for individuals to rebuild their lives after a conviction.
The consequences of a sex crime conviction can last long after an individual has completed a jail or prison sentence. Someone convicted of a sex crime will likely have difficulty securing housing or employment opportunities due to their status as a registered sex offender.
For this reason alone, it is essential that anyone accused of these crimes seeks qualified legal counsel from an experienced sex crime attorney in Fullerton who can help them protect their rights and minimize the potential consequences of a conviction.