Defining Wallet Guns in the State of California
PC 17730 deals specifically with wallet guns. Wallet guns are, more specifically, firearms that are:
- Mounted or enclosed
- In a case that looks like a wallet
- Kept in a purse or pocket
- Weapons that can be fired while still in their cases
Many wallet guns are fairly small. However, despite their size, they are still illegal to possess in the state of California. Note that PC 17730 only provides the definition of a wallet gun. People do not face charges under PC 17730 in California.
Criminal Charges Associated with Wallet Guns
PC 17730 defines what wallet guns are. PC 24710, on the other hand, is used to prosecute individuals who misuse wallet guns in our state. PC 24710 charges are enforced on people who are accused of:
- Possessing wallet guns
- Making wallet guns
- Importing wallet guns into the state
- Selling wallet guns
- Giving or lending people wallet guns
Wallet guns are only a single example of a prohibited weapon in the state of California. Individuals can also face criminal charges if they are accused of having, making, selling, or giving away items like:
- Brass knuckles
- Concealed daggers
- Belt buckle knives
The Simmrin Law Group can help you get more information about prohibited weapons in our state. Start talking with a member of our team today by calling (310) 896-2723.
Penalties for a PC 24710 Violation in California
PC 24710 is considered to be a wobbler in California. Wobblers are charges that are prosecuted either as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanor charges are generally less severe than a felony accusation. A misdemeanor conviction can result in:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Incarceration of up to one year
Meanwhile, a felony conviction may lead to:
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Incarceration of up to three years
However, both misdemeanor and felony convictions can lead to probation in some cases. Probation allows individuals to stay out of jail or prison in California. While on probation, you must obey certain regulations set by the court.
You should also know that the prosecution decides how to handle a wobbler. The prosecution makes their decision by considering:
- An individual’s past criminal history
- The facts of the current criminal charge
A weapons charges lawyer in Los Angeles can help you learn more about these charges and how to fight them, including other misdemeanor and felony charges in California.
Defenses Against a Misuse of a Wallet Gun Charge in California
A criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles can help if you have been charged under PC 24710. We are ready to build you a personalized defense, starting right now. Contact us so we can review the facts of your case. We can work to show that:
You Didn’t Have a Wallet Gun
PC 17730 provides the specific definition of a wallet gun. If you possessed a firearm that did not meet the definition of a wallet gun, you should not be convicted of PC 24710 charges. We can assess the kind of firearm you had and determine how best to proceed.
You Were Legally Allowed to Have a Wallet Gun
Some individuals in California are exempt from the laws controlling access to wallet guns. For example, some antique dealers are allowed to sell or possess wallet guns. Additionally, individuals working in law enforcement are allowed to handle these weapons in some cases.
Speak to a Lawyer About How to Fight Wallet Gun Charges in California
You can face criminal charges for the possession of a wallet gun in California under Penal Code 24710. PC 17730, on the other hand, covers the legal definition of a wallet gun. If you are facing wallet gun charges, get help today from the Simmrin Law Group. Find out more with a free consultation. Our criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles are standing by to help you.
Contact us by calling (310) 896-2723. You can also complete our online contact form.