Criminal Defense Attorney In Newport Beach, CA
When you are facing criminal charges, it is essential to act quickly to protect your rights. A guilty verdict can have serious lasting consequences, including incarceration, fines, and probation. Even if you are not sentenced to jail or prison time, having a criminal record may still affect your job prospects and access to opportunities in the future. When you hire a capable Newport Beach criminal defense lawyer, you gain an advocate who will work diligently on your behalf to build the best possible case strategy and ensure that your rights are fully respected throughout the legal process.
Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist with decades of experience fighting for the underdog. No matter the circumstances or the specific offenses you have been charged with, she is prepared to fight to protect your interests in and out of the courtroom. You deserve dedicated legal advocacy, and Attorney Goodman can offer the comprehensive, compassionate support needed to successfully navigate these high-stakes situations.
The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman offers confidential consultations. Call 714-879-5770 or fill out an online contact form to request yours today.
FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES?
Attorney Goodman handles a wide variety of criminal cases and accused crimes. Don’t see your charges below? Contact us for a consultation.
HOW ARE CRIMINAL OFFENSES CHARGED IN CALIFORNIA?
Criminal offenses vary in severity and will fall into one of three categories. The classification of the offense will influence the scope of the penalties for a conviction.
- Felonies are the most serious type of criminal charge. Depending on the severity of the offense and details of a case, those convicted of a felony could face life in prison or probation as part of their sentence. Some examples of crimes that can qualify as felonies include domestic violence, DWI, murder, and manslaughter.
- Misdemeanors are typically less serious crimes than felonies but can still carry significant penalties. Common types of misdemeanors might include first-time DUI, disorderly conduct, shoplifting, or simple assault. Depending on the severity of the offense, a misdemeanor conviction could result in up to a year in jail or prison and fines up to $1,000. In addition to potential incarceration and fines, a misdemeanor may also come with probationary terms that require regular check-ins with law enforcement or social services programs.
- The most minor type of criminal offense in California is an infraction. These offenses do not carry any jail time as punishment, although they may come with a monetary penalty. Infractions are typically associated with traffic violations or other relatively minor transgressions like littering. In most cases, infractions require only an administrative hearing in which the defendant enters a plea and faces sentencing by the presiding judge. No jury trial is held, nor is a public defender appointed if the defendant is unable to hire legal representation.
- Finally, some crimes are “wobblers,” meaning they can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies. The specific facts of the case, including the existence of any prior convictions, can influence how prosecutors proceed.
Some examples of wobbler offenses in California include:
- DUI/DWI
- Child abuse
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Possession of a controlled substance
A Newport Beach criminal defense attorney can help you understand the specific charges brought against you and the accompanying penalties if convicted. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman always aims to put its clients in the best possible position, which is why Attorney Goodman will attempt to negotiate lesser charges whenever practical.
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.
UNDERSTANDING CALIFORNIA’S ARREST PROCESS
Unfortunately, California’s criminal defense process is not known for its efficiency. You will need to go through several steps before your case goes to trial.
After an initial arrest, the court will schedule an arraignment. During this time, you should work with a seasoned lawyer to fully explore your options. During your arraignment hearing, the judge will review the charges brought against you, explain your rights, and ask you to enter a plea. Generally, your options are “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” A legal professional can help you make the best possible decision. After entering your plea, the judge will decide whether to set bail.
Sometime after your arraignment, you will attend a pre-trial conference. This meeting includes you, your legal representation, the prosecutor, and the judge assigned to your case. In this meeting, the prosecutor may offer you a plea deal. A plea deal typically involves an agreement to lessen the charges (and the resulting penalties) in exchange for your pleading guilty. This avoids a trial, but accepting a plea deal is not always in your best interest. Attorney Goodman can help negotiate a plea deal and advise whether taking one makes sense.
If you do not plead guilty or accept a deal, your case will go to trial. This could be a court trial (in which the judge makes the final decision) or a jury trial (in which a jury of your peers makes the final decision). In either scenario, the prosecution must demonstrate that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to obtain a conviction.
If the verdict is “guilty,” the judge will decide your sentence. This may include incarceration, fines, probation, and other penalties. If you are found to be “not guilty,” your case is over, and you will face no additional punishments.
Should you be unsatisfied with the verdict or sentencing, you may be able to file an appeal if new evidence surfaces or if one or more legal or procedural errors compromised your initial trial.
A higher court is not obligated to review your case, however, which is why you should have a legal professional help prepare your appeal.