If you have been charged with a weapons-related offense, we urge you to contact our experienced San Bernardino gun lawyers at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry today. Gun crimes carry strict, long-term penalties, so it is essential to have a capable criminal defense attorney who could fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future. Our accomplished legal team could advocate aggressively to have your charges dropped or reduced, minimizing any penalties.
Types of Weapons Crimes in San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County has strict laws regarding what types of weapons that someone can own, how and where they can be carried, and who can lawfully possess them. Any violation of these laws can result in harsh penalties. Some common firearm-related offenses include:
- Brandishing a firearm
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
- Carrying a concealed weapon
- Carrying a loaded firearm
- Shooting at a dwelling, vehicle, or aircraft
- Illegal sale of a firearm
- Illegal discharge of a firearm
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Making false statements to purchase a firearm
Illegal Gun Possession
State gun laws give most individuals the right to buy, own, and possess a firearm with a valid permit. There are, however, some exceptions. It is unlawful for someone to possess a firearm if they:
- Under the age of 18
- Are a convicted felon
- Have a narcotics addiction or have a history of substance abuse
- Have been convicted twice of brandishing a weapon
- Have been convicted of certain misdemeanors
- Suffer from a mental illness
If you are found guilty of unlawfully possessing a firearm, you could be sentenced to up to one year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. If you are a gang member or in possession of a stolen firearm, you may be charged with felony possession, increasing the penalties considerably. Our attorneys in San Bernardino could help someone prepare a defense if they have been accused of illegal gun possession.
Firearm Offenses and The Three Strikes Law
California’s habitual offender law, known as the Three Strikes Law, imposes increased penalties for those convicted of a felony who have one or more previous violent felony convictions on their criminal record.
If you are convicted of a felony gun crime and have a prior strike offense on your record, your sentence may be doubled. If you have two prior strikes on your record and are convicted of a felony gun crime, you may receive 25 years to life in prison.
How a Skilled Gun Defense Attorney Can Help
Defending those against gun charges takes both a high level of experience and dedication. During the legal process for a gun offense, our attorneys in San Bernardino could:
- Perform a thorough investigation into the alleged offense
- Interview all witnesses involved in the alleged incident
- Gather evidence supporting your case
- Make all required court motions
- Negotiate on your behalf to obtain a dismissal or reduction of your charges
- Provide a superior defense in court if necessary
- fight to minimize penalties by obtaining alternative sentencing such as community service or electronic surveillance if a conviction is unavoidable
Speak with a Reputable San Bernardino Gun Attorney
Gun-related charges are a serious matter. Because the consequences can be severe, it is essential to immediately seek the advice of a reputable San Bernardino gun lawyer. Our skilled attorneys at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry have a thorough understanding of both the 2nd Amendment and the state’s stringent gun legislation. We know how to effectively defend those facing charges and could build a case-specific persuasive strategy to help you obtain the result you need. Contact us today for a free case analysis and let us begin fighting aggressively to defend your liberties.