Firearm and Gun Crime Defense in California
California has extensive laws regulating the possession, purchase, transportation, carrying, and use of firearms. A firearm-related arrest or criminal charge can carry serious consequences, including potential restrictions on the future possession or ownership of firearms.
Because California firearm laws are complex and the applicable charges depend heavily upon the individual circumstances, anyone facing a firearm-related criminal allegation should have the facts and evidence carefully evaluated.
California Law Centers, APC. represents individuals facing firearm and weapons-related criminal charges throughout San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.
Types of Firearm-Related Charges
Firearm cases can arise under many different circumstances and may involve allegations including:
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm: California law prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms. Whether a person is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm depends upon the individual's circumstances and applicable law.
- Carrying a Concealed Firearm: Criminal charges may arise from allegations involving the unlawful carrying of a concealed firearm.
- Carrying a Loaded Firearm: California law regulates carrying loaded firearms in public and in vehicles, subject to applicable laws, permits, and exceptions.
- Possession in Prohibited Locations: Firearms may be prohibited or subject to additional restrictions in certain locations.
- Possession of Prohibited Firearms or Weapons: California regulates certain firearms, weapons, ammunition, magazines, and firearm-related devices.
- Brandishing a Firearm or Weapon: Displaying or exhibiting a firearm in certain circumstances may result in criminal charges.
- Assault Involving a Firearm: Allegations involving the use of a firearm during an assault or another criminal offense can significantly increase the seriousness of a criminal case.
- Other Firearm and Weapons Offenses: Additional California and federal laws may apply depending upon the type of weapon, the location, the individual's status, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense.
Defending a Firearm Charge
An arrest involving a firearm does not establish guilt. The prosecution must prove the required elements of the charged offense.
Depending upon the circumstances, important issues may include:
- Whether the search or seizure of the firearm was lawful
- Whether the accused knowingly possessed the firearm
- Whether the firearm belonged to another person
- Whether the accused was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm
- Whether an applicable permit, exception, or other legal authorization existed
- The location and manner in which the firearm was possessed or transported
- Statements made to law enforcement
- Whether the evidence establishes each required element of the alleged offense
California Law Centers carefully reviews the police reports, circumstances of the search or seizure, statements, available video, and other evidence to identify potential defenses and legal issues.
Firearm Charges and Other Criminal Cases
Firearm allegations sometimes arise together with other criminal charges. Depending upon the circumstances, the alleged presence or use of a firearm may affect the charges or potential consequences of the overall case.
Every case should therefore be evaluated individually based upon the specific allegations and available evidence.
How California Law Centers Can Help
With over 30 years of legal experience, Attorney James Hairgrove and the legal team at California Law Centers provide experienced criminal defense representation.
We evaluate the evidence, explain the charges and potential consequences, identify available defenses, and pursue the best available resolution based upon the individual facts and circumstances of each case.
Contact California Law Centers
If you have been arrested, are under investigation, or are facing a firearm or weapons-related criminal charge, contact California Law Centers, APC. for a free case evaluation.
888-DMV-2DUI (888-368-2384)
619-667-3743
[email protected]
San Diego • Riverside • San Bernardino
The information provided on this page is general information and is not legal advice. California firearm laws are complex and subject to change. Every criminal case is different, and no particular result is guaranteed.
