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With You Through Every Step of the Criminal Defense Process

Having successfully represented 1,000s of people, our Santa Rosa criminal defense firm is known for client-dedicated advocacy.

Santa Rosa Criminal Defense Attorney

Sonoma County Criminal & DUI Defense

At the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C., we are by our client’s side for every step of the criminal defense process. Our Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer, Evan Zelig, constantly communicates with clients to ensure that they understand their rights and what to expect as their case progresses. We are here for you around the clock.

Our Santa Rosa criminal defense attorney has skillfully defended thousands of clients, even garnering the Client Distinction Award for ethical, communicative service as well as selection for Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ 2015, 2016 and 2017. When your rights, liberty, and reputation are on the line, you can depend on our experienced advocate.

We are ready to start your defense, contact a Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer today at (707) 418-5352 for your free consultation!

Testimonials

Our Clients Tell It Best

    "Helpful and very good at communication throughout the court process."

    Helpful and very good at communication throughout the court process. I would recommend him for any time you need a lawyer. He ...

    Brent B.
    "Knowledgeable, honest, fair, hard-working, committed, enthusiastic, and aggressive."

    Evan Zelig is exactly what you want from a lawyer. Knowledgeable, honest, fair, hard-working, committed, enthusiastic, and ...

    Former Client
    "Evan is very knowledgeable, knows a lot of people in Sonoma County."

    Evan is very knowledgeable, knows a lot of people in Sonoma County. kept me well informed. Always returned my calls or emails ...

    Michael
    "Evan is an excellent lawyer, kind and gentle."

    Evan is an excellent lawyer, kind and gentle.

    Dan K.
    "He is definitely my go-to man."

    I went in for a consultation and being scared to death that a little housewife like myself was facing felony charges, he ...

    Former Client
    "He genuinely cared and wanted to help."

    I would like to start by saying thank you to Mr. Zelig. From our first conversation I could tell that he genuinely cared and ...

    Konstantine
    "Mr. Zelig has helped with not only my legal woes but with a friend's."

    Mr. Zelig has helped with not only my legal woes but with a friend's. He's patient and gets to the bottom of the problem ...

    Erin H.
    "He was in constant communication, was honest, knowledgeable and very forthcoming and available to answer any and all of my questions."

    Evan was great, every step of the way. He was in constant communication, was honest, knowledgeable and very forthcoming and ...

    Former Client
  • Criminal Defense Process
    If you were recently charged with a crime you are probably concerned about what will happen next.
  • Resources
    Bail agents, immigration issues, addiction rehabilitation options, and more! We get you the help you need.
  • Free Case Review
    Available to take your call, we are ready to discuss your defense strategies in a free consultation.

The Criminal Defense Process

What Happens After an Arrest?

Upon arrest, you should have been read your rights: your right to remain silent, and your right to an attorney. It is crucial that you assert these rights immediately.

Within two court days of an arrest, the defendant will hear the charges against him or her in an arraignment. This is where you can enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Bail can also be increased or reduced at this hearing. If the case moves forward, it will move on to the discovery phase, where the defense attorney and the prosecutor share information. This is also the time when pre-trial motions can be filed. During this time, your attorney may be able to request that certain evidence is thrown out from the case because an arrest or search was invalid. It may also be possible that your lawyer could negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor, where you plead guilty in exchange for a lesser charge or reduced penalties. If you can’t reach a plea bargain or case dismissal, however, then your case could move on to a trial.

  • 20+ Years' Experience in Criminal Law
  • Prompt Response Times
  • Client-Oriented Services
  • Aggressive, Proactive Approach to Handling Cases
  • Hands-On Guidance & Support Through the Criminal Justice System
Protect Your Rights At the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C., our Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer is ready to advocate for your rights and guide you through the process.
Meet Attorney Evan E. Zelig Committed to Criminal Defense Law from the Beginning.

After Attorney Evan E. Zelig gained experience in various positions throughout the legal field, he returned to Northern California to open up his own practice, the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig. Located in the heart of Sonoma County near the Hall of Justice Courthouse and Jail Detention Facilities, Mr. Zelig accepts criminal cases from all across California.

Protect Your Rights Now

Request Your Free Consultation

Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (707) 418-5352

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