Folsom Attorney Publishes Memoir Detailing Addiction, Crime, and Insanity

Cyrus Zal's book 'Twice Dead, Once Saved' recounts his journey from chaos to redemption through faith in Jesus Christ.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:07pm

Folsom attorney Cyrus Zal has published a confessional-style memoir detailing his life of addiction, crime, and mental breakdown, until he found salvation through accepting Jesus Christ. The book describes Zal's extraordinary experiences, including his escape from the U.S. to Iran as a fugitive and his subsequent return, as well as his shocking crimes committed while he was a licensed attorney. Zal hopes his story will encourage and help others struggling with similar issues to turn to God for healing and transformation.

Why it matters

Zal's memoir provides a raw and honest account of the power of faith to redeem even the most hopeless of lives. His story sheds light on the challenges faced by those battling addiction, mental illness, and involvement in the criminal justice system, and offers a message of hope for those seeking a path to redemption.

The details

Zal's book, 'Twice Dead, Once Saved', details his journey through crime, addiction to drugs like marijuana, LSD, mescaline, and alcohol, as well as his mental breakdown and insanity. It describes his escape from the U.S. to Iran as a fugitive, and his subsequent return, during which he continued his life of dissipation and criminal activity until he finally met and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

  • Zal attended the University of California, Berkeley from 1966 to 1971, during the height of the counter-cultural revolution.
  • Zal's book was published in January 2026.

The players

Cyrus Zal

A Folsom, California attorney who has authored a memoir detailing his life of addiction, crime, and mental breakdown, and his ultimate redemption through faith in Jesus Christ.

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What’s next

Zal's book 'Twice Dead, Once Saved' is available for purchase on the book's website, https://www.twice-dead once-saved.com.

The takeaway

Zal's memoir offers a powerful message of hope and redemption, demonstrating the transformative power of faith in overcoming even the most daunting personal challenges. His story serves as an inspiration for those struggling with addiction, mental illness, and involvement in the criminal justice system.