Riverside Criminal Defense Attorney

State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialist with Decades of Experience

Being accused of a crime can feel intimidating, uncertain, and overwhelming. Whether you are a first-time offender or facing a serious felony charge, securing legal representation is imperative to avoiding the life-changing consequences of a criminal conviction. At The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we are committed to defending your rights and reputation at each stage of the legal process. 

Don’t leave your future to chance after an arrest or indictment. We understand that bad things happen to good people, which is why we are dedicated to safeguarding your freedom. Our criminal defense lawyer is a state bar-certified criminal law specialist with an unrivaled track record of dismissals, reductions, and favorable verdicts, highlighting our well-respected reputation among the local legal community.

If you’re facing a criminal charge in Riverside, choose a criminal defense firm with decades of experience to protect your liberty. Contact us online to discuss your case. Se habla español.

Common Crimes We Defend Against

Our firm defends Californians against a wide range of criminal charges, including:

• DUI 
• Arson
• Homicide
• Sex Crimes
• Theft Crimes
• Drug Crimes
• Gang Crimes
• Violent Crimes
• Internet Crimes
• Juvenile Crimes
• Weapon Charges
• Domestic Violence
• White-Collar Crimes
• Probation Violations

How Long Can I Be Detained Before My Arraignment?

California law mandates that defendants in custody be arraigned before a judge within 48 hours of arrest or on the next date thereafter in which the court is in session (Cal. Penal Code § 825). Even if the 48 hours have not elapsed, law enforcement is prohibited from postponing the arraignment without a legitimate cause. Our attorney is well-versed in these legal nuances to uphold your right to a speedy arraignment. 

Should I Testify in My Own Defense?

Testifying in your own defense is a critical choice that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. While sharing your side of the story can be powerful, it may not be necessary in every case. 

Defendants are generally not advised to testify because they must waive their Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and expose themselves to cross-contamination, which can be distressing and confusing. 

We can analyze the evidence against you, weigh the risks and benefits of you taking the stand, and determine the best path forward for your specific circumstances.

What Are the Penalties for a Criminal Conviction?

A criminal conviction can lead to a wide range of penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, fines, probation, community service, mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) installation, mandatory treatment or counseling programs, and restitution. 

Defendants may also face collateral consequences, such as the loss of civil liberties and professional licenses, difficulty obtaining affordable housing and employment, and restrictions on where they live, work, and travel.

Convictions for qualifying sex offenses may also require mandatory sex offender registration, which can last for decades or a lifetime. We can work tirelessly to mitigate the impacts of a conviction and advocate for alternative sentencing or reduced charges if possible.

How Is Bail Determined in Criminal Proceedings?

Bail is determined based on the county bail schedule for the alleged crime. Courts may also consider the seriousness of the offense, prior criminal history, your ties to the community, and flight risk. We can request a bail reduction or argue for release on your own recognizance if possible to minimize time in custody while your case is pending.

Should I Accept a Plea Bargain?

It depends. In some cases, the prosecution may offer a plea deal. While accepting a plea offer can lead to a more efficient resolution and reduced charges or sentencing, it usually requires you to plead guilty and waive your right to a trial, which can have long-term consequences on your future. We can evaluate the terms of the offer to determine if a proposed deal is in your best interests. 

When Can I Appeal a Criminal Conviction?

Criminal convictions can be appealed after a final judgment is entered if one of the following applies:

1. There was not enough evidence in the trial to justify the verdict or judgment.
2. There were mistakes of law during or before the trial that hurt your case. 

Appeals must be filed within 60 days for felony cases and 30 days for misdemeanor cases. We can identify any improper procedures or legal errors that may justify an appeal, guide you through the filing process, and pursue a fair outcome.

Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Lawyer? 

A criminal charge can have lasting consequences on your life and liberty, regardless of whether you are convicted. Securing a robust defense is paramount to protecting your future opportunities. If you were arrested or indicted for a crime, let us put our decades of experience to work for you. 

When you choose our firm, you can expect direct attorney involvement and hands-on guidance every step of the way. Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is a nationally acclaimed trial advocate with a strong track record of results in high-stakes criminal cases, underscoring our proven competency and courtroom excellence. 

If you were arrested for a crime, don’t face this challenging process alone. Call (714) 266-3945 to schedule a free consultation with our fearless defense attorney.