Violent felonies include offenses like murder, rape, robbery, and assault with a deadly weapon. These crimes carry harsher sentences and often count as strikes under California’s three-strikes law. A violent felony conviction can reduce time-served credits and limit parole options. Prosecutors often seek harsh penalties for these types of crimes due to the societal harm caused by violent crimes.
Santa Ana Violent Crime Lawyer
Violent Crime Attorney In Santa Ana, CA
Violent crime charges in Santa Ana can lead to serious consequences, including the possibility of time in state prison and a permanent felony record. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, especially when the allegations involve a victim who was seriously harmed. Defending against violent crime accusations requires a focused legal strategy and guidance from a Santa Ana violent crime lawyer who understands how to fight back against the charges in court.
Trusted Defense Backed by Proven Results
If you are facing violent crime charges, you need an attorney who has a track record of getting results. At The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, our legal team focuses on serious felony crimes, and we have extensive experience representing defendants facing violent crime accusations. We understand that over-policing and discriminatory investigation practices disproportionately affect residents in Santa Ana and its Central City neighborhood. When defending area residents, we don’t rely on generic strategies.
Every case demands a custom-built defense focused on suppressing weak evidence and exposing flaws in the state’s case. From day one, we can work to protect your freedom and pursue positive outcomes in court.
Contact us today at 714-879-5770 to schedule an initial consultation.
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!
UNDERSTANDING VIOLENT CRIME TRENDS IN SANTA ANA AND CENTRAL CITY
Santa Ana ranks 14 out of 100 on national safety indexes. This means that the city is considered safer than only 14% of cities in the United States. While areas like Park Santiago, Lemon Heights, and Rocking Horse Ridge are among the safest when it comes to crime rates, neighborhoods in the western part of the city, including Central City, continue to experience higher levels of police activity and violent crime.
In 2023, the city reported six homicides, which marked a significant drop from 26 the year before. However, not all trends were positive. Aggravated assaults jumped by 36%, with 1,165 cases reported, which was up from 856 in 2022. Sexual violence saw a slight decline, with 311 rape and sexual assault cases recorded, decreased by 5% from the prior year.
PENALTIES FOR VIOLENT OFFENSES IN CALIFORNIA COURTS
Violent offenses are among the most heavily punished crimes under California law. Charges like assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, attempted murder, and rape are typically filed as felonies and may count as strikes under the state’s three strikes law.
A conviction can lead to lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, strict parole conditions, and the loss of key civil rights, including voting and firearm ownership. In Costa Mesa, prosecutors often pursue these charges aggressively, especially when incidents occur near Victoria Street, Harbor Boulevard, or public spaces like Lions Park.
Even individuals with no prior record may face enhanced penalties if a weapon was used or if the alleged victim sustained serious injuries. Additional sentencing enhancements may apply for crimes tied to gangs, firearms, or those committed near schools or parks. A felony conviction can severely impact employment and housing opportunities because most landlords and employers conduct background checks and flag serious criminal records.
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.
DEFENSE STRATEGIES FOR ASSAULT, ROBBERY, AND WEAPONS CHARGES
Building a strong defense against violent crime charges starts with understanding how cases are handled inside the Central Justice Center at 700 Civic Center Drive West. Prosecutors in Santa Ana aggressively pursue convictions, and any defense presented must be grounded in clear facts and sound legal arguments.
In violent crime cases, effective strategies often focus on uncovering flaws in the investigation, such as unlawful searches, unreliable witness accounts, or contradictions in reports. Arrests made in areas like Central City or along 4th Street may stem from assumptions or rushed police work that doesn’t hold up in court.
In cases involving assault or domestic violence, self-defense can be a viable defense strategy. Other defenses may involve challenging intent or proving the accused did not understand their conduct was unlawful. Success in these cases depends on filing motions to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence, exposing weakness in the prosecution’s case and legal arguments, and forcing state prosecutors to meet their full burden of proof.
HOW PROSECUTORS HANDLE VIOLENT FELONY CASES IN SANTA ANA
Prosecutors in Santa Ana allocate significant time and resources to violent felonies. For cases that result in convictions, the presiding judge often seeks harsh punishments. Prosecutors routinely consult with law enforcement and victims early in the case to build a narrative that reflects the victim’s recounting of events.
When a case originates from Central City or another high-policing area, prosecutors may push for enhanced sentencing when there are allegations of gang affiliation or aggravating factors. Even after charges are brought, the prosecution may continue to comb over evidence or seek further statements to build their case.
Although prosecutors may seek trials for high-profile cases, they are also likely to offer plea bargain offers to try to resolve potential backlogs of cases. Prosecutors consider the evidence before them when determining whether they will offer reduced penalties or even reduced charges in return for an admission of guilt by the defendant.
WHY LEGAL REPRESENTATION IS CRITICAL IN HIGH-STAKES CASES
High-stakes cases in Santa Ana, especially those involving violent or sex crime charges, often start with arrests near Ross Street, 4th Street, or Civic Center Drive. Without legal representation, you can incriminate yourself or accept an unfavorable plea bargain agreement when your case should have been dismissed from the beginning.
An attorney can review your case, identify illegal searches or procedural errors, and file motions to exclude certain testimony or unlawfully obtained material. Defense lawyers can conduct their own investigations to counter the claims made by the prosecution. With legal representation, the scales of justice can be balanced in your favor.
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT ATTORNEY FOR YOUR CASE
If your case began with an arrest near Jerome Park, Downtown Santa Ana, or anywhere in Central City, you need an attorney who understands how cases are built in those environments. Look for someone familiar with law enforcement patterns in neighborhoods like Memorial Park or along Civic Center Drive.
Don’t rely on flashy ads or broad promises. Find a lawyer with real experience defending serious cases in Santa Ana, particularly violent felonies or sex crime allegations. Ask about their case results, their approach to plea negotiations, and how often they go to trial. A strong attorney can be honest, aggressive when needed, and ready to challenge the state from day one.
VIOLENT CRIME LAWS FAQ'S
Santa Ana, CA
Protecting Your Future Begins With a Call to Goodman Criminal Litigation
Violent crime charges are some of the most serious and consequential accusations someone can face in criminal court. One mistake defendants make when preparing for a case is failing to secure representation from an attorney who has extensive experience representing clients in tough cases and securing favorable outcomes, like dropped or reduced charges.
At The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, we do not settle for anything less than a positive outcome for our clients. By scrutinizing the evidence and looking for weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case, we can take decisive steps to shield you from the harshest penalties under the law.
Take the first step by contacting our office to learn more today.