State Bar-Certified Defense for California Grand Theft Allegations
Facing grand theft allegations can be a stressful situation. From worries about reputation to jail time, our team at The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman recognizes the challenges our clients face. As such, we provide experienced criminal defense focused on guarding our clients' rights at every stage of the process.
We evaluate the prosecution’s legal theory, available records, witness accounts, and the statutory category at issue. Early review is especially important before charges are filed, evidence is lost, or statements complicate the defense.
California Penal Code section 487 defines grand theft based on property value and certain categories of property or conduct. In applicable circumstances, theft of property or services worth more than $950 may qualify as grand theft. The statute also addresses theft from a person and theft involving an automobile or firearm.
California Penal Code section 490.2 generally classifies theft of property valued at $950 or less as petty theft, subject to statutory exceptions and the defendant’s record. Because this rule can affect property categories otherwise addressed by section 487, the exact subsection and facts must be examined. A grand theft allegation isn’t automatically a felony.
Important classification issues can include:
Fair market value: The property’s value at the time and general location of the alleged theft.
Property type: Whether the allegation involves money, services, an automobile, a firearm, or property taken from a person.
Method of taking: How the accused allegedly obtained or retained possession.
Criminal intent: Whether the evidence proves the intent required for the charged form of theft.
The prosecution must prove every required element beyond a reasonable doubt. Receipts, the property’s condition, comparable sales, ownership records, and witness testimony may affect whether the evidence supports grand theft or petty theft.
Choose Our Grand Theft Attorney in Orange County
Jacqueline Goodman is certified in criminal law by the California State Bar. Our practice is focused on criminal defense, and we bring decades of experience to cases with serious personal and professional consequences.
Jacqueline’s national criminal defense leadership includes service with the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. That background informs our hands-on approach to challenging the charging theory, identifying disputed elements, and preparing each case for its current stage.
Other reasons to choose us include:
Compassionate representation: We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with criminal allegations and treat every client with respect, care, and personal attention.
30 years of experience: Jacqueline Goodman brings three decades of criminal defense experience to evaluating evidence, challenging allegations, and developing defense strategies.
Proven track record: Our firm draws on its criminal defense experience to examine the facts, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and pursue the strongest available defense options.
Sometimes Bad Things Happen to 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!
“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'm Extremely Happy
“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.
Patient & Responsive
“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.
Got the Best Deal
“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.
Awesome Attorney
“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.
Persistent & Compassionate
“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
She is the Best
“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.
Tenacity and Care
“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.
Trustworthy & Empathetic
“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!”
How We Build a Grand Theft Defense in Orange County
We offer pre-file investigation services throughout Orange County. Before prosecutors decide whether to file charges, we can review the accusation, preserve relevant materials, identify witnesses, and examine whether the known facts satisfy the applicable theft statute.
A defense evaluation may address:
Ownership and permission: Whether the accused had ownership rights, consent, or lawful possession.
Intent: Whether the evidence establishes the intent required by the prosecution’s theory.
Identity: Whether witnesses, surveillance, or other evidence reliably identifies the accused.
Valuation: Whether the prosecution can substantiate the claimed fair market value.
Witness reliability: Whether witness accounts align with records, communications, and physical evidence.
Police conduct: Whether statements or evidence were obtained in compliance with constitutional requirements.
The defense strategy depends on the allegations, documents, communications, physical evidence, witness accounts, and procedural history. No single issue determines every case.
Evidence & Valuation in California Grand Theft Cases
Valuation may be disputed when the prosecution relies on an asking price, replacement cost, incomplete receipt, or estimate that doesn’t reflect the property’s condition at the time of the alleged offense. Comparable sales, transaction records, photographs, maintenance history, and qualified valuation evidence can provide a more accurate picture.
Other disputes may involve surveillance footage, digital communications, business records, identification procedures, or witness credibility. Search-and-seizure issues can also lead to evidence suppression, a court order that can prevent unlawfully obtained evidence from being used.
The analysis also changes with the prosecution’s theory. Allegations involving grand theft auto, firearm theft, or theft from a person may raise different statutory questions than a case based primarily on aggregate property value. We review the actual charge and evidence before assessing which rules apply.
Get a Confidential Review of Your Grand Theft Case in Orange County
Led by a California State Bar-certified criminal defense attorney with decades of experience, we represent people under investigation and those facing filed charges. Contact us to discuss the allegations, court status, available evidence, and practical next steps.
We can begin by examining the property involved, how its value was calculated, what statements were made, and whether a hearing or filing deadline is approaching.
Call The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman at (657) 571-2266 to request a confidential case evaluation. Our Orange County grand theft lawyer can advise you.
