Criminal Defense Attorney In Yorba Linda, CA
Serious Defenses for Serious Charges in Yorba Linda, CA
Facing criminal charges of any kind can be frightening and overwhelming. You may be unsure of your legal rights or overwhelmed by the complexities of the criminal justice system. Without seasoned legal representation, you could face a higher risk of conviction, which may bring serious consequences like incarceration, fines, probation, and a criminal record that will negatively impact your future.
Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is an experienced and well-respected Yorba Linda criminal defense lawyer who has dedicated her career to protecting the rights of the criminally accused. She is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist with decades of experience, giving her a deep understanding of the legal process and the strategies needed to achieve successful outcomes. From filing motions and gathering evidence to devising defense strategies and negotiating plea bargains, she knows when and how to make every move count to seek the best possible resolution. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is committed to advocating aggressively on behalf of its clients while also providing them with the respect, compassion, and communication they deserve.
Start exploring your defense options today by scheduling a confidential consultation. Call 714-879-5770 or fill out an online contact form to get started.
FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES?
Attorney Goodman handles a wide variety of criminal cases and accused crimes. Don’t see your charges below? Contact us for a consultation.
UNDERSTANDING HOW CRIMES ARE CHARGED IN CALIFORNIA
A criminal offense will be classified as an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony in California. Some crimes always fall under a particular classification, while in other cases, the prosecution may have some discretion when deciding how to charge a defendant.
- A felony is the most serious type of offense someone can be charged with, and a conviction can in many scenarios result in permanent or near-permanent consequences. Examples of felonies in California include murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, rape, and assault with a firearm. Potential punishments for the most severe cases may include life imprisonment, exorbitant fines, and more.
- Misdemeanors are typically considered less serious than felonies, but a conviction can still lead to hefty, life-altering penalties. Some of the most common crimes that fall into this category include first-time DUI/DWI, disorderly conduct, shoplifting, and simple assault. Depending on the severity of the offense, an individual convicted of a misdemeanor may face up to one year of jail time and fines of up to $1,000.
- Infractions are the least serious form of crime. You cannot be jailed for committing an infraction, a category that includes traffic violations, littering, and other types of minor offenses. The penalties for infractions are usually only monetary, but note that you are not entitled to a jury trial or a court-appointed lawyer when accused of committing one. A presiding judge will typically decide the case at an administrative hearing.
- A “wobbler offense” can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecution will make their decision based on the facts of the case. In cases involving a wobbler, a skilled Yorba Linda criminal defense attorney can fight to secure reduced charges, in turn protecting you from the potential penalties of a felony conviction.
California defines many criminal offenses as wobblers, including (but not limited to):
- Burglary
- Spousal battery
- Lewd acts with a minor
- Statutory rape
- Vehicular manslaughter
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.
HOW THE CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROCESS WORKS
While the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution entitles you to a “speedy trial,” the reality is that the criminal justice process is not instantaneous. It will take time to review your legal options, enter a plea, build your defense, and prepare for trial, if necessary.
An arraignment following an arrest is the first step. During your arraignment, you will come before a judge, who will walk you through your rights, confirm the charges brought against you, and request that you enter a plea. You can choose to plead “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest” in most cases. You should not plead guilty or no contest without first discussing your situation with a legal professional.
After you have entered your plea, the judge will decide whether to set bail. Next comes a pre-trial conference. At this stage, the prosecution may attempt to negotiate a plea bargain. Should you accept, you will plead guilty in exchange for some form of concession from the prosecution, typically reduced charges (and thus reduced sentencing). Plea bargains are not always a good deal, and The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman can provide tailored guidance if you are offered one. In some cases, it does make more sense to go to trial.
A trial may be a jury trial or a court trial. In a jury trial, a jury of your peers decides the verdict, while in a court trial, the judge decides whether you are guilty. In either case, the prosecution must prove you are guilty of the specific criminal offense you are charged with beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is any reasonable doubt, the jury or judge must acquit.
Once a verdict has been reached, the judge will announce the decision and sentencing. If you are unhappy with the results (either the verdict itself or the sentencing), you may have the option to appeal. Appealing is only a viable option if new evidence becomes available or if you can demonstrate that some procedural or legal error may have affected the outcome of the case.
Attorney Goodman can review your options for appealing in these scenarios.