Criminal Law State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
Yorba Linda Criminal Defense Attorney
Nationally Recognized Trial Advocate with Decades of Criminal Defense Experience in California
When your freedom is on the line, you need a defense lawyer who understands what is at stake. At The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we take a hands-on approach to give every case the personalized care and attention it deserves. Our criminal defense attorney has a deep knowledge of the sensitive nature of criminal proceedings to guide your steps with empathy, honesty, and care.
From analyzing evidence to negotiating with the prosecution, our firm can provide the robust defense you deserve while safeguarding your rights at every turn.Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is a state bar-certified criminal law specialist with decades of experience and astrong track record of results, underscoring our well-respected reputation for achieving successful outcomes in high-stakes criminal cases.
If you are facing a criminal charge in Yorba Linda, we can provide the aggressive defense you deserve. Call (657) 571-2266 to schedule a free consultation.
Real Acquittals, Time and Time Again
30 Years of Proven Results
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Ended Sex Registration 290 Sex Offender Registration
Relief for yet another client who no longer has to register as a sex offender.
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Case Rejected Assault With A Deadly Weapon
Strike felonies including assault with a deadly weapon – car with great bodily injury.
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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.
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Case Dismissed Battery and Corporal Injury
243(e)(1) Battery/273.5 Corporal Injury of Spouse in Long Beach.
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Case Dismissed Child Endangerment/ Cruelty
Penal Code 273a(b) Child endangerment/cruelty.
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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
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“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.
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“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.
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“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.
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“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.
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“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.
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“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
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“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.
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“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.
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“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
Will My Criminal Case Go to Trial?
The majority of criminal cases are resolved before trial through plea bargains, dismissals, or other negotiations. However, a case may proceed to trial if the parties cannot reach an acceptable resolution or the defendant exercises their right to a jury trial. As a recognized trial lawyer with national honors for courtroom excellence, our attorney is uniquely positioned to represent you at each stage of the process.
Should I Accept a Plea Deal?
We advise against accepting a plea deal until our attorney can review the terms of the offer. While plea bargains can sometimes lead to faster verdicts, reduced charges, and lesser sentencing, they usually require you to admit guilt and waive your right to a trial. We can evaluate the plea deal and negotiate with the prosecution if needed to reach an agreement that aligns with your best interests.
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Co-Chair Sex Crimes Defense Education
Training lawyers nationally for 14 years.
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Criminal Trial Lawyer of the Year
Chosen by Lawyers as Best Lawyers 2026 Lawyer of the Year-Orange County
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State Bar Certified Specialist
Awarded to specialists who have demonstrated proficiency in specified areas of law.
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1Renowned Success Rate
When your life depends on it, you need a lawyer known for winning the toughest trials.
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2Certified Criminal Law Specialist
Less than 1% of California Attorneys meet the rigorous standards to be certified as a specialist by the State Bar.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Common Legal Defenses in Criminal Cases
Common legal defenses against criminal charges include:
- Lack of intent. Many offenses require intent to secure a conviction. If you lacked the intent to commit a crime, we can advocate for a dismissal.
- Self-defense. If your actions were necessary to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, self-defense can be a viable strategy to employ.
- Insufficient evidence. If there is not enough evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we can file a motion for dismissal.
- Unlawful search or seizure. If law enforcement violated your rights during an arrest, we can fight to dismiss inadmissible evidence from your case.
- Entrapment. If law enforcement enticed you to commit a crime that you would not have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
- Alibi. If you were mistakenly identified as the offender, we can gather evidence to prove that you were not present when the crime occurred.
- Duress or coercion. If you only committed the crime due to threats of violence or death, we can argue that you acted under duress.
Working with a qualified lawyer is key to determining an effective defense for your specific circumstances. From analyzing the evidence against you to identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, we leave no stone unturned in our investigations to build you the strongest possible defense.
