Frequently Asked Questions
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Los Angeles

California Criminal Defense

Know the Facts
Below are questions we frequently receive about Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer, Ronald A. Ziff, California felonies, misdemeanor cases, and criminal attorney representation. If your question does not appear below or is not satisfactorily answered, please contact us.

What rights do I have during my California arrest?
When arrested in California, you may wish to remain silent. Frequently, a criminal defendant wants to talk to the police and tell his or her side of the story.  Since you don’t know what information law enforcement already has, you may unintentionally doing more damage to your case than good by filling in blanks.

If law enforcement attempts to question you while you are in custody, you should be read a list of rights, known as “Miranda Rights,” as follows:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
• You have the right to an attorney.
• If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided free of charge prior to questioning.
• Having these rights in mind, do you want to talk to us?

By hiring a California criminal defense attorney, such as Ronald A. Ziff, your rights will be fully protected. 

Can I represent myself in a California criminal offense?
According to California and Federal laws, you are permitted to represent yourself in your criminal case; however, this is strongly discouraged.  There is no substitution for a skilled California criminal defense attorney, such as Ronald A. Ziff, who has devoted his entire career to researching, studying, and practicing California law. As a former, veteran prosecutor, Mr. Ziff has been on both sides of the criminal justice system and he knows the court personnel who run that system.   Learn more.

Do I need a criminal defense attorney even if I'm innocent?
Even though you may be innocent, you are not innocent—until the California courts or the jury agree. Unfortunately, you must go through the criminal defense process in pursuit of this goal.  Running the risk of losing your freedom due to self-representation is costlier than hiring an attorney.  Maximize your chances of winning by employing the services of a seasoned California criminal defense attorney, such as Ronald A. Ziff.  Contact us to schedule a free consultation. 

What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor?
In the State of California, any criminal offense should be taken seriously and put in the hands of an experienced defense attorney.  While felonies typically carry more severe punishments, misdemeanors can be equally as damaging to your record, freedom, and future.  The fundamental differences between California felonies and misdemeanors are as follows:

• California felonies are crimes punishable by up to one year in county jail or longer state prison sentences.  Felony crime examples include homicide, rape, and vehicular manslaughter committed while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• California misdemeanors are crimes punishable by up to one year in jail. Examples of misdemeanor crimes include DUI, domestic violence, reckless driving, and vandalism and petty theft offenses.

When it comes to your California misdemeanor or felony case, it's important that you hire a qualified Los Angeles defense attorney, such as Ronald A. Ziff, who has a strong background and solid experience related to your criminal matter.  

When are the police required to have a warrant for arrest?
California police do not always need a warrant to make an arrest.  For example, if a felony or misdemeanor crime is committed in police presence, they can legally arrest you on the spot without a warrant.  Typically, police need a warrant to enter and search your home, but this can differ on a case-by-case basis.  If you have been arrested in California, your best means of defense is to immediately contact Ronald A. Ziff and discuss the details of your case.  

What is the California alcohol limit for DUI?
California DUI laws have two Vehicle Code Sections that are usually charged in a DUI case.  When an individual is arrested for California drunk driving (or DUI), he or she could face charges under Section 23152(a) for being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and face additional charges under Section 23152(b) if your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is .08 or greater. 

What is white collar crime?
White collar crime is a category of non-violent crimes that often times involves cheating as its primary element.  Normally associated with business dealings, examples of California white collar crimes include embezzlement, bribery, tax evasion, workers compensation fraud, real estate fraud, DMV and Bureau of Automotive Repair fraud as well as  other fraudulent behavior.  Ronald A. Ziff has a history of working with white collar criminal defendants, performing thorough investigations, and obtaining excellent results as a result of meticulous preparation and motion work.  

What is the difference between grand theft and petty theft?
California grand theft includes any crime involving the theft of property whose value exceeds $400; otherwise, in most cases the theft is charged as California petty theft.  Both grand theft and petty theft can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor; this decision will be made by the prosecutor assigned to your case.  The most important decision you can make is to contact Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer, Ronald A. Ziff, and have him begin early intervention with the Prosecutor’s office.   This can greatly impact the way your case is filed and and lead to advantageous results.  Learn more...

Can traffic violations become California criminal offenses?
The answer depends on whether or not your traffic violation led to serious harm, injury, or property damage.  If so, you could be charged with a California misdemeanor—or even a felony, offenses worthy of hiring an experienced California criminal defense lawyer, such as Ronald A. Ziff.  

The following crimes could lead to California criminal offenses:

• DUI (driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol)
• Evading police officers
• Death or great bodily injuries that happened in conjunction with your traffic violation
• Reckless driving
• Hit-and-Runs
• And more

Contact Ronald A. Ziff to find out if your traffic violation could become a California criminal offense. 

What areas of California criminal defense do you cover?
Ronald A. Ziff, a former prosecutor and seasoned Los Angeles criminal defense attorney—with a separate California criminal appeals division on site—has been in private practice for more than 35 years, handling many different types of cases, such as:

How much do you charge for attorney representation?
Fees vary from case to case, depending on time requirements, severity of charges, and degree of complexity.  Of greater importance is the comfort level you have when selecting a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.  We invite you to come in and meet with Ronald A. Ziff, a Phi Beta Kappa UCLA graduate who has the personality and perseverance to win your case.  Please contact the firm today to schedule a free evaluation.

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