Orange County Sexual Abuse Lawyer
Sexual Abuse Attorney In Orange County, CA
California takes accusations of sexual abuse seriously. So seriously, in fact, that it recently passed a law that expands the statute of limitations for victims of the offense to file a civil lawsuit against their alleged abuser. If you’ve been accused of committing a sexual abuse offense, speak with an attorney who will staunchly defend your case and will discuss your legal options with you.
A conviction for a sexual offense carries harsh punishments. Understanding the impacts on a person’s life, Attorney Jacqueline Goodman, of The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, will examine every detail of your case to spot weaknesses in the prosecutor’s claims and develop an effective legal strategy on your behalf. Trying to navigate the legal system on your own or going up against a prosecutor who will do everything they can to land a conviction can be challenging, and you shouldn’t have to go it alone.
Delivering Effective Legal Representation
If you’ve been accused of a sexual abuse offense in Orange County, know that Attorney Goodman is ready to provide the skilled legal counsel and aggressive defense you need to fight your charges. She has obtained favorable outcomes for past clients and will work hard toward a just result on your behalf. You can reach to to her for consultation and strategic legal help.
To level the playing field in your sexual abuse case in Orange County call (657) 571-2266 today.
30 Years of Proven Results.
Real Acquittals, Time and Again
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
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“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.
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“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.
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“Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is the best! Every part of our experience with her was great. Without her on our side, we wouldn't know what might happen to my family. She is very good and passionate at her job and always knows what she's doing.”- Former Client
How Is Sexual Abuse Defined?
The term ‘sexual abuse’ is used to describe sexual acts that are intended to cause pain, harm, or humiliation to the individual.
California doesn’t have a specific law prohibiting acts of sexual abuse. Rather it has several statutes that criminalize certain sex offenses. For instance, under California Penal Code 243.4 PC (sexual assault), a person could be accused of committing an offense if they touch the intimate parts of another person for sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse. This offense is a wobbler, which means it could be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. A conviction could result in either up to 6 months in jail or up to 4 years in prison.
Additionally, a person could be accused of committing sexual abuse if they violate California Penal Code 288 PC, which is concerned with lewd and lascivious acts with a minor.
Specifically, the law states that it’s illegal to engage in a lewd or lascivious act:
- With a person under 14 years of age
- With a person under 14 years of age by use of force
- Upon a dependent when the actor is a caretaker
- With a person who is 14 or 15 years of age and the actor is 10 years older than the minor
The potential conviction penalties for a violation of California Penal Code 288 PC include up to 10 years in prison.
Speak with Attorney Goodman during a consultation by calling (657) 571-2266 or filling out an online contact form.
Leading Sex Crimes Defense Training Nationwide for Over a Decade.
Leading Sex Crimes Defense Training Nationwide for Over a Decade.
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Co-Chair Sex Crimes Defense Education
Training lawyers nationally for 14 years.
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Criminal Trial Lawyer of the Year
Chosen by Lawyers as Best Lawyers 2026 Lawyer of the Year-Orange County
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State Bar Certified Specialist
Awarded to specialists who have demonstrated proficiency in specified areas of law.