Orange County Rape Attorney
Defending Against Rape Charges in California
In California, rape is a felony offense, which means a conviction could result in several years behind bars. If you have been accused of committing this crime, secure aggressive legal defense as soon as possible. Criminal penalties are not the only punishments you could face, as there are also various collateral consequences. For instance, after you have served your time, you may have difficulties getting a job, finding housing, or even qualifying for government benefits, making it challenging to readjust to society. Additionally, some rape convictions result in a sex offender registration requirement, which can ruin your reputation and severely limit where you can live and work.
Know that if you’ve been accused of rape, you do not have to face the criminal justice process alone. At The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is here to provide the aggressive defense you need to fight charges. Backed by extensive legal experience, she is a skilled Orange County rape lawyer who knows what it takes to develop an effective defense strategy and identify weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case. She will leverage her knowledge, skills, and resources to work toward a favorable outcome on your behalf.
When you are facing serious charges, you need a serious defense. For an initial consultation, call 714-879-5770 or contact the firm online to get started with our rape attorney in Orange County.
How is Rape Defined in California?
If two people engage in sexual conduct and one does not “freely and voluntarily” give their consent for the act, the other individual could be considered to have committed rape under California law. This legal definition means that the act of rape does not necessarily involve the use of physical force.
Specifically, California Penal Code 261 PC defines rape as sexual intercourse with someone other than a person’s spouse in which:
- The alleged victim could not give consent (because of a mental disorder or developmental disability)
- The alleged perpetrator used force, violence, duress, or threatened to cause serious bodily injury
- The alleged victim was intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance
- The alleged victim was unconscious during the act
- The alleged perpetrator used false pretenses to further the act
- The alleged perpetrator threatened retaliation against the alleged victim or another person
- The alleged perpetrator threatened incarceration, arrest, or deportation
Renowned Success Rate
Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
HOW IS RAPE PENALIZED IN CALIFORNIA?
In California, allegations of rape are taken very seriously, and the prosecutor will work hard to land a conviction. If they prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed the offense, that individual could face serious consequences.
The penalties for a rape conviction include:
- 3, 6, or 8 years in prison
- 7, 9, or 11 years in prison if the alleged victim was 14 years of age or older
- 9, 11, or 13 years in prison if the alleged victim was under 14 years of age
- Mandatory registration as a sex offender for life
An Orange County rape attorney can help you avoid these and other consequences by mounting a compelling defense. Get in touch with The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman as soon as you have been accused or learn you are under investigation for rape.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE BEEN ACCUSED OF RAPE IN CALIFORNIA?
You may be caught completely off guard by a rape accusation. What you thought was a consensual sexual encounter may suddenly be presented by the other party as something entirely different in the days, weeks, or years after the fact. While you may be tempted to directly defend yourself and fight to establish the truth of what happened, doing so is generally not in your best interest. Any arguments fought in the public square are not likely to result in a favorable outcome, even if you know with total confidence that you are in the right. Even worse, anything you say is likely to be further distorted and used against you.
The bottom line: If someone accuses you of rape, exercise your right to remain silent and seek legal representation. Do not post on social media, do not talk to others about the accusations, and absolutely do not reach out to your accuser. If you are arrested, continue to stay silent and ask to speak to an attorney. Do not answer any questions or give any statements to the police without first getting legal advice. An Orange County rape lawyer can assess the circumstances and help you understand what to do next.
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.
Defenses Against Rape Charges
Common defenses in rape cases include the following:
- Consent: One of the most common defenses against rape allegations is proving that the sexual encounter was consensual. In many cases, the accused and the accuser may have differing perceptions of the events that transpired, leading to misunderstandings regarding consent. By presenting evidence that supports a consensual encounter—such as text messages, witness testimony, or prior history between the parties—this defense can help establish that no crime occurred.
- False Accusations: Unfortunately, false allegations can occur for various reasons, such as personal disputes, jealousy, or the influence of others. False accusations may also arise in cases involving divorce or child custody disputes. Uncovering inconsistencies in the accuser’s story or motivations for making the allegations can help build a strong defense that challenges the claim’s credibility. We work meticulously to investigate and expose any false information that could influence the case.
- Lack of Evidence: Rape cases often lack direct physical evidence, relying primarily on testimony from the accuser and the accused. When physical evidence is weak or inconsistent, we highlight these gaps in the prosecution’s case. Forensic analysis, expert testimony, and a review of evidence collection methods can reveal flaws that weaken the prosecution’s argument.
- Mistaken Identity: In some situations, the accuser may have misidentified the person they believe assaulted them. This is particularly relevant in cases where the alleged incident occurred under low visibility or where the accuser was under the influence. DNA testing, alibi witnesses, and other forensic evidence can be invaluable in establishing that the defendant was not involved in the alleged incident.
- Mental Incapacity or Intoxication: In some cases, the accused may have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to impaired memory or misinterpretation of the events. By examining any relevant substances or conditions that might have impacted judgment or perception, this defense can sometimes cast doubt on the accusations or clarify misunderstandings surrounding the incident.
- Violation of Legal Rights: In any criminal case, law enforcement must adhere to strict procedures regarding evidence collection, arrests, and interrogations. If your legal rights were violated at any point in the process, such as during an unlawful search or a coerced confession, any evidence obtained unlawfully may be inadmissible in court.
Contact Our Rape Attorney in Orange County Today
If you have been accused of rape, Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is ready to take the time to listen to your side of the story. Upon learning the facts of the case, she will begin developing a legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
When you need personalized legal representation, turn to The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman. Fill out an online contact form or call 714-879-5770 to get started with our Orange County rape lawyer.