Weapons charges are often a result of a genuine mistake or misunderstanding of the state’s expansive gun legislation. Our Temecula gun lawyers understand how confusing these laws can be, especially if you recently moved here from another state.
If you have been charged with a weapons-related offense, we strongly urge you to contact our seasoned criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry. Our attorneys have a proven track record in gun cases and could fight skillfully to ensure your Constitutional rights are protected. We are committed to providing you with a strong defense that helps you put this matter behind you.
Types of Firearm Offenses
Those who violate gun laws are diligently pursued by local law enforcement. There are various ways in which someone may violate one of these laws. Some common gun charges include carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a loaded firearm, brandishing a firearm, a felon with a firearm, unlicensed sale of a firearm, and negligent discharge of a firearm. One of our skilled attorneys in Temecula could determine how to proceed with your case if you have been accused of a gun crime.
Gun Rights and Criminal Convictions
Sometimes an individual is prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm due to a felony criminal conviction, a conviction of certain misdemeanor crimes, or a restraining order. If a prohibited individual is found to be in possession of a firearm, they can be charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm under California Penal Code 29800 PC. It states that it is illegal for these individuals to “own, possess, use, store, receive, or sell” a firearm. Felon in Possession of a Firearm is charged as a felony and carries penalties of up to three years in state prison.
Concealed Weapon Charges
In California, it is illegal to carry a concealed weapon on your person or in a vehicle that is under your control. A concealed weapon can be a pistol, handgun, revolver, or any other weapon that can be concealed. Under California Penal Code 25400 PC, you are guilty of this charge if:
- You were carrying a firearm concealed on your person, or
- You carried a firearm in a vehicle under your control, or
- You caused a firearm to be carried and concealed in a vehicle under your control
Carrying a Concealed Weapon is typically charged as a misdemeanor and carries a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Under certain circumstances, it can be charged as a felony. If you are convicted of a felony charge, your sentence could include up to three years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Legal Defenses for Various Gun Crimes
Facing gun charges is a dire matter. Fortunately, there are several solid arguments our skilled defense attorneys in Temecula could argue in a gun case. Some of these defenses include:
- Carrying the weapon in self-defense.
- The possession of the firearm in question was legal.
- Not being aware of carrying the weapon in question.
- The discovery of the firearm was a result of an illegal search and seizure, a violation of your 4th Amendment rights.
- The firearm was planted.
Speak with a Leading Temecula Gun Attorney
The consequences associated with a weapons conviction can be harsh and permanent. If you have been charged with a firearms-related offense, do not delay. Contact our leading Temecula gun lawyers today.
Our skilled team of attorneys has the highest level of experience in weapons defense. We have over four decades of experience handling these cases and know exactly how to defend our clients against these serious charges. Contact us today for a free case analysis. During your consultation, one of our knowledgeable attorneys could explain your gun charges in detail and go over your legal rights and options.