In California, many people can legally own and carry guns. But even those who lawfully own guns are subject to numerous restrictions. It is unlawful to carry a loaded firearm in public. It may also unlawful to carry a firearm which is concealed on your person or in your car, even if you have a license to own the gun, unless you have a concealed weapons license.
If you are charged with a firearms offense, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to determine if the charges are appropriate and to understand the possible punishment. California firearm laws are complicated, and a firearms offense may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the facts and the person’s prior criminal record.
There are a number of possible defenses to a firearms charge, including whether the person knew of or was in control of the firearm, whether or not the person was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm, whether or not the weapon was in fact a “firearm” as defined by law, and whether or not the police officers searched for and seized the weapon legally.
In addition to guns, possession of certain other weapons can be illegal in California. Some of these include metal knuckles, dirks or daggers, switch blade knives and nunchakus.
If you have been charged with a firearms or weapons crime, call Robbi A. Cook for a free consultation at 510-208-5051.
