Criminal Law State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
Santa Ana Criminal Defense Attorney
Decades of Experience Defending Accused Californians
Facing criminal charges of any kind can be frightening and overwhelming. Failing to secure a robust defense can increase the risk of a conviction and lead to life-altering consequences like incarceration, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. At The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, our well-respected criminal defense lawyer is committed to defending your life and liberty.
Our lead attorney is a state bar-certified criminal law specialist with a deep understanding of the criminal justice process and proven results in complex criminal matters. From analyzing the evidence against you to developing effective defense strategies, we are committed to protecting your future through hands-on representation backed by decades of experience.
If you were charged with a crime in Santa Ana, we can help you build a strategic defense. Contact us online to discuss your case. Se habla español.
Real Acquittals, Time and Time Again
30 Years of Proven Results
-
Ended Sex Registration 290 Sex Offender Registration
Relief for yet another client who no longer has to register as a sex offender.
-
Case Rejected Assault With A Deadly Weapon
Strike felonies including assault with a deadly weapon – car with great bodily injury.
-
Case Dismissed Attempted Murder Of Police Officer
Los Angeles Arrest Pre-filing representation on Attempted murder of police officer, assault with a deadly weapon upon a police officer.
-
Case Dismissed Battery and Corporal Injury
243(e)(1) Battery/273.5 Corporal Injury of Spouse in Long Beach.
-
Case Dismissed Child Endangerment/ Cruelty
Penal Code 273a(b) Child endangerment/cruelty.
-
Case Dismissed Child Sex Abuse
Child Sex Abuse case dismissed.
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!
Your Experience Matters
Five-Star Client Reviews
-
“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 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.
-
“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.
-
“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.
-
“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.
-
“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
-
“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.
-
“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.
-
“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!”- Estela H.
A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.
In the News
What Can I Expect During the Criminal Process?
The criminal process generally involves the following stages:
- Arrest and booking. Law enforcement collects fingerprints and other personal information.
- Arraignment. The defendant must be brought before a judge for arraignment within 48 hours of being taken into custody.
- Pretrial motions. Both sides may negotiate plea deals and file pretrial motions to compel discovery, suppress evidence, or dismiss the case.
- Preliminary hearing. In felony cases, a preliminary hearing is held to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.
- Trial. If a mutual agreement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial and will be heard before a judge or jury.
- Verdict and sentencing. The court will render a verdict. If the defendant is found guilty, the judge will issue a sentence.
- Appeal. The defendant has the right to appeal the conviction if there are legal errors that influenced the outcome.
-
Co-Chair Sex Crimes Defense Education
Training lawyers nationally for 14 years.
-
Criminal Trial Lawyer of the Year
Chosen by Lawyers as Best Lawyers 2026 Lawyer of the Year-Orange County
-
State Bar Certified Specialist
Awarded to specialists who have demonstrated proficiency in specified areas of law.
-
1Renowned Success Rate
When your life depends on it, you need a lawyer known for winning the toughest trials.
-
2Certified Criminal Law Specialist
Less than 1% of California Attorneys meet the rigorous standards to be certified as a specialist by the State Bar.
-
3Rated 10.0 Superb on AVVO
Our practice is world-class, but you don’t have to take our word for it. Our clients love us, and we have the ratings to prove it.
-
4Named on The Wall of Recognition at The National Constitution Center
Named on the wall of recognition at the National Constitution Center in Washington, D.C., alongside some of the greatest lawyers in the nation.
-
5Admitted to Argue Cases Before the United States Supreme Court
“For litigators, there is no greater or more elusive honor than to argue before;this Court.” – The American Bar Association
.007% of lawyers gain admission in the USSC.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense
Will My Case Be Dismissed if Police Did Not Read My Miranda Rights?
If police failed to read your Miranda rights, any statements you made are typically inadmissible in court. This does not mean your case will automatically be dismissed, but it can limit the evidence against you and may strengthen motions to suppress or dismiss charges. We can review the circumstances of the arrest, file the appropriate motions, and challenge any statements obtained in violation of your constitutional rights.
When Is Sex Offender Registration Mandatory in California?
Certain sex crimes are punishable by mandatory sex offender registration under PC § 290, including (but not limited to) rape, sodomy, sexual battery, and most sex crimes involving minors. Registration can last for decades or be lifelong. We can review the charge, evaluate whether registration is required, and focus on strategies aimed at avoiding registration or limiting its duration.
