Defining Armor-Piercing Ammunition in California
Understanding the definition of armor-piercing ammunition makes it easier to understand PC 30315 accusations in California. Armor-piercing ammunition is a kind of munition. It is specifically designed to pierce a body shield or “bulletproof” vest.
Armor-piercing ammunition generally uses more steel than other ammunition. In fact, this type of ammunition is sometimes called steel jacketed or steel core ammunition.
California specifically restricts armor-piercing ammunition designed for use in handguns, not other kinds of firearms. Handguns include weapons like pistols and revolvers. Rifles and shotguns are not considered handguns in the state of California.
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Restrictions on the Ownership of Armor-Piercing Ammunition
Individuals and corporations are not allowed to own armor-piercing ammunition throughout the state of California. A person should only face this charge if they knowingly had possession of armor-piercing ammunition.
The specifics of this charge mean that a person can avoid a criminal conviction if they were unaware that they had armor-piercing ammunition. Sometimes, individuals are given ammunition without being informed of its armor-piercing capabilities. In this case, they should not get convicted under PC 30315.
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Penalties for Possession of Armor-Piercing Ammunition
Possession of armor-piercing ammunition is a wobbler in California. Wobblers are sometimes treated as misdemeanors. In other situations, these charges get filed as felonies. The prosecution has the right to decide how to treat these charges based on the individual’s past criminal record and the facts of the current case.
Misdemeanor and felony convictions are not treated in the same way in California. Individuals convicted of a misdemeanor can expect to face:
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Incarceration of up to one year
- Summary probation
Felony charges receive more serious treatment from the court system in Los Angeles. Felony convictions often lead to:
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Incarceration of up to three years
- Formal probation
A weapons charges lawyer in Los Angeles can provide you with more information about both misdemeanor and felony accusations. Our team at the Simmrin Law Group can provide you with the legal advice you need.
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Firearm Ownership and a PC 30315 Conviction
Felony convictions lead to a longer period of incarceration than misdemeanor charges. Felony convictions also have other repercussions in the state of California. Individuals convicted of a felony will lose their firearm ownership rights. This means that after a felony conviction, individuals cannot legally:
- Own a gun
- Buy a gun
- Possess a gun
Individuals convicted of a felony only have a limited period of time to turn their firearms over to law enforcement. Failure to properly turn over firearms can result in additional criminal charges in California. Some people face charges under Penal Code 29800. PC 29800 represents California’s “felon with a firearm” law.
Felons found with firearms can face additional felony charges. These charges can lead to extra years of time behind bars. Keep these restrictions in mind when facing PC 30315 charges in Los Angeles.
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Immigration Consequences of a PC 30315 Conviction
It is possible that a conviction of a violation of California PC 30315 could have additional consequences for non-citizens. If you are convicted of a felony charge, and it is determined that it constitutes an “aggravated” felony, you could be deported or marked as inadmissible to the country.
An aggravated felony is one where the actions of the defendant are deemed to have been particularly egregious. If you face a PC 30315 charge as a non-resident, you will likely want to hire a criminal defense lawyer with experience related to immigration law. It is vital to know the full consequences you face and how to fight back against potential penalties.
Charges Similar to PC 30315
The court system in California uses a number of charges similar to PC 30315. These charges restrict the ownership or possession of other firearms. For example, individuals can face charges under:
- Penal Code 30600, for the possession of assault weapons and rifles
- Penal Code 30605, for the possession of an assault weapon
- Penal Code 30610, for the possession of a .50 BMG rifle
Our state also restricts the ownership of general firearms. Individuals in California are not legally permitted to carry firearms in public without a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit. These permits are difficult to acquire. Individuals who carry weapons can face additional criminal charges.
Using a weapon to hurt or kill another person will lead to very severe charges. Individuals can face charges for battery or even murder if they use a firearm on another person. A violent crimes lawyer in Los Angeles can help you in this situation.
Defenses for Possession of Armor-Piercing Ammunition
There are defenses that work to handle PC 30315 charges in the state of California. You can review these options with a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles. Members of our team are fully prepared to argue that you:
- Did not know you had armor-piercing ammunition
- Did not actually have armor-piercing ammunition
- Were subjected to an illegal police search
Did Not Know You Had Armor-Piercing Ammunition
PC 30315 charges should only apply if an individual knowingly possesses armor-piercing ammunition. This condition means you could avoid a conviction if you were given armor-piercing ammunition without your knowledge. Inform your lawyer if you are in this situation.
Did Not Actually Have Armor-Piercing Ammunition
There are many different kinds of ammunition in California. Only a few types of ammunition are classified as “armor-piercing.” Your lawyer can work to show that the ammunition in your possession does not meet the definition of “armor-piercing ammunition.”
Were Subjected to an Illegal Police Search
You have constitutional rights here in California. This means that police officers can only search you and your home in specific circumstances. Evidence found through an illegal search is often blocked during court proceedings. Your case could get dismissed if the police violated your constitutional rights to find armor-piercing ammunition.
Is It Possible to Get a PC 30315 Conviction Expunged?
If you are convicted of a violation of Penal Code 30315, you may be in a position to get your conviction expunged from your record. Before a conviction can be expunged, you must first complete your jail or probation sentence.
If you are convicted of a felony charge and serve time in prison rather than jail, you will not be able to get the conviction expunged. A prison sentence automatically precludes you from expunging a conviction.
Ask a Lawyer About Penal Code 30315 Charges
Were you charged with possession of armor-piercing ammunition in California? The Simmrin Law Group is here to help you handle Penal Code 30315 charges. You can easily contact us to get a free consultation about your legal options. We’ll work to build a defense for you. Let a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer take steps to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
Find out more by calling us or filling out our online contact form. In your free, no-obligation consultation, a member of our legal team will review the details of your case. We will answer all your questions and advise you of your options going forward.
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