We construct a simple quasi-static model of seismic zone with embedded pre-existing faults and present a self-consistent method for incorporating both the stick--slip behavior at the fault surfaces and the long-ranged stress redistribution following a rupture or a slip event. Driven by a slow tectonic plate (relative) motion, the model evolves to a critical state exhibiting Gutenberg--Richter power law for the frequency--size distributions. Results on spatial and statistical features of earthquakes in the model are also presented. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1995