About Your Rights - Criminal Defense

The single greatest mistake made by people who are accused or suspected of criminal wrongdoing is talking to law enforcement without having first consulted with an attorney. You always have the right to ask for an attorney before questioning, and you should exercise that right. Attorney Barry A. Zimmerman is one of Placer County’s only Specialists in Criminal Law Certified by the State Bar of California. We are available at any time to assist you in what may be your greatest time of need.

Strict time limits may apply to certain types of cases. Following a DUI arrest, for example, you only have ten days to call the DMV to have any chance of getting your license back without serving a mandatory suspension period. Many other cases involve a need to locate and interview witnesses immediately, before they become hard to find or before memories begin to fade. Contacting a lawyer as soon as you are under suspicion or scrutiny can be the difference between success and failure.

In misdemeanor cases and in most felony cases, a lawyer can appear in court without you being personally present, saving you time and embarrassment. A local lawyer who is familiar with the county where the charges are pending is also in the best position to negotiate your case. He will have a regular working relationship with the prosecutors and judges. The Law Offices of Barry A. Zimmerman has attorneys who have worked in Placer County since 1992. Mr. Zimmerman is regarded as one of the top criminal defense attorneys in Placer County.

Contacting an attorney before your court appearance will give you the advantage of taking steps to mitigate punishment and to begin to establish factual defenses. Your lawyer will have access to licensed private investigators who can immediately begin working on your case. Your lawyer will have recommendations for steps you can immediately take to better your chances for success. Perhaps most importantly, you can direct that all communication and contact concerning your matter go straight to your attorney rather than through yourself.

If you can afford to retain an attorney, it is absolutely critical you do so if at any time you find yourself under suspicion, accusation, or if you are pending a criminal charge. The Law Offices of Barry A. Zimmerman have free initial consultations and negotiable retainer agreements on all criminal cases. We accept all major credit cards and are also willing to structure payment plans. Before you contact them, contact us.

Call us at (530) 823-0705, or send an email to info@bazlaw.com.