I am a lawyer from a legal family with deep roots in the Sacramento/California area. My family first came to California in the mid 1800's and were prominent ranchers.  In the past century my family turned to the law profession, and has now produced a total of five (5) lawyers over three generations, practicing from California to Australia. I worked with my father Francis W. "Bud" Zilaff from 1977 until his death in 1997.  He taught me to always treat clients with the same care and respect I would my own family and to always return phone calls. I have practiced in two main areas over my 37 year legal career:  Bankruptcy and Probate.  I find that no matter how carefully people have planned their financial affairs life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs such as divorce, loss of a spouse or partner, illness, loss of a job, or disability.  All of these situations can lead to enormously difficult financial woes such as foreclosures of houses, creditor harassment, judgments and levies or garnishments. I have helped a huge number of clients by stopping these terribly hurtful legal actions so that they can catch their breath.  Clients tell me that they can sleep peacefully for the first time in years after receiving my help. The above takes a lot of careful and compassionate listening, as does my other legal emphasis: Wills, Trusts and Probate.  I am happy to discuss and help my clients with any of their legal needs.

It might also be of interest to potential clients that I am actively involved with the cultural and social life of Sacramento.  I am involved in local charities and social organizations which round out my life. I am a linguist and teach Hawaiian language at a local cultural center, and try to keep in good shape by working out daily at my health club.  

I graduated from Christian Brothers High School in 1969, received my Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Santa Clara University in 1973, and received by Juris Doctor from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge Law School of Law.  I went into practice with my father and continued until his death in 1997. Since that time I have practiced in my own law firm, The Law Offices of Gary F. Zilaff.  You can reach me at, or through e-mail at  I will share with you an hour consultation at no charge or obligation.