Gun Crimes
California takes weapon crimes very seriously. The laws regarding the use of firearms are extensive and strict. Depending on the type of offense, you could face jail time, fines, probation, community service, or other serious penalties. Being informed of the law about firearms is an important step in ensuring you avoid being convicted of gun crime.
- California Firearm Laws Regarding Possession: It is illegal for anyone previously convicted of a felony to own or be found in possession of a firearm. If a person has prior misdemeanors, they may not possess a firearm until 10 years after conviction. A minor may not possess a handgun unless written permission or accompaniment of a parent or guardian has been given.
- California Firearm Laws Regarding Transportation: It is, at all times and under all circumstances, illegal to carry a loaded rifle, handgun, or shotgun in a public place where it is not a designated area for firing the firearm. Traveling with a handgun in your vehicle is illegal, unless a permit has been granted, because it is considered concealed
- California Firearm Laws Regarding Brandishing: It is illegal to draw a loaded or unloaded firearm in a threatening manner and if the offense took place on public property, the minimum jail time will be three months according to California Penal Code §417. Brandishing a firearm while in a vehicle as an attempt to threaten is illegal.
When determining what the charges are, four important factors must be considered: what type of firearm was used, the criminal background, if any, of the accused, whether or not the weapon was concealed as well as how it was used in the incident in question.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a gun crime in California, there is help to be provided to ensure the best possible outcome. Every California resident is entitled to certain rights, and when facing gun crime, it is very important to have an advocate that is dedicated to seeing those rights obtained, no matter the situation. An attorney from The Law Office of Bruce C. Bridgman knows how imperative it is to fight aggressively in cases such as this. Our lawyers are well-versed in criminal defense and will take on each unique case with the same professionalism and knowledge of the California legal system that will ensure that each of our clients receives the justice they deserve.