A person can transport a gun from Arizona to California. However, this individual must do so in accordance with California gun laws. Failure to comply with these laws can result in imprisonment.
Simmrin Law Group is an experienced criminal law resource in California. We offer tips and insights to ensure people can legally transport firearms from Arizona to California. In addition, we provide answers to common questions about this topic.
What do I Need to Know Before I Bring a Gun from Arizona to California?
Here are three factors to consider before carrying a gun from Arizona to California:
1. How Guns Must Be Transported Into California
California has laws in place relating to how people can legally transport firearms into the Golden State. These laws state that a gun can’t be loaded and must be stored in a locked and secured container inside a vehicle. Meanwhile, a non-concealable firearm only has to be unloaded during transport.
2. Who Can Own a Gun in California
There are limitations on who can acquire or possess firearms in California. A convicted felon is not allowed to have a gun in California. Also, people under the age of 18 who have a narcotics addiction or have a mental illness are ineligible to acquire or possess a gun in California.
3. “Personal Firearm Importer” Requirements
Anyone who brings a firearm into California is considered a “personal firearm importer.” As such, an individual must submit a New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership (BOF 4010A) to California’s Department of Justice. This individual must also pay a fee of $19.00 when their form is submitted.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
What Types of Guns Can I Carry from Arizona to California?
There are three types of firearms that a person can bring from Arizona to California:
1. Handguns
When transporting a handgun to California, an individual must ensure the firearm is unloaded, in the trunk of their vehicle, and not concealed. Ammunition must be stored in a container that is locked or another carrying device. The only people allowed to own the gun are the driver operating the vehicle that’s entering California or the passenger.
2. Firearms that Can’t Be Concealed
Examples of non-concealable firearms include shotguns, rifles, and long guns. Most of these firearms must be in a locked container when they are brought into California. They must also be unloaded during transport.
3. Weapons of Assault
California’s restriction on assault weapons was repealed in June 2021. Those who bring assault weapons into California must unload their guns and store them in locked containers. These weapons are only allowed to be transported to and from certain destinations, such as a firing range or shooting club.
What Are the Charges I Can Face if I Illegally Bring a Gun from Arizona to California?
A person can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony for bringing a gun into California without complying with the Golden State’s laws. A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony. Regardless, being charged with a misdemeanor or felony in California can carry serious ramifications.
In a misdemeanor case, an individual can face up to one year of jail time or a fine of up to $1,000. Comparatively, in a felony case, a person can receive probation. Or, this individual can spend up to 10 years in prison or receive a fine of up to $10,000.
Those who face an illegal weapons charge in California should partner with an experienced criminal defense attorney. This allows an individual to consider all of the legal options available to dispute their charge. Plus, the attorney will do their part to help this individual get their illegal weapons charges reduced or revoked.
What Should I Do if I Face an Illegal Weapons Charge in California?
An illegal weapons charge in California can cause a person stress. Fortunately, there are several things an individual can do to address this charge. These include:
1. Consult With a Criminal Defense Attorney
Hire a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer who has helped clients combat illegal weapons charges in California. The lawyer knows the ins and outs of gun laws in California. This attorney can look for ways to help an individual avoid a lengthy prison sentence or an expensive fine relating to their illegal weapons charge.
2. Build a Legal Strategy
Gather evidence to support an illegal weapons case. A defendant must collect evidence that can be used to show a court why an illegal weapons charge should be reduced or dropped. By partnering with a criminal defense lawyer, a defendant is well-equipped to do just that. At Simmrin Law Group, potential defense strategies may include:
- Challenging the legality of the search and seizure
- Exploring potential lack of knowledge or intent
- Protecting constitutional rights throughout the legal process
- Scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses
- Engaging in negotiations for favorable resolutions
- Considering alternative explanations or justifications
3. Negotiate the Terms of a Settlement
A defendant and their attorney can put together a plea bargain that eliminates the need for an illegal weapons trial. If a prosecutor agrees to the plea bargain, an illegal weapons case gets settled out of court. At this point, the defendant can move on from the case.
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What does It Take to Avoid an Illegal Weapons Charge in California?
Learn California’s gun laws before transporting a firearm into the state. If there are any concerns or questions about these laws, consult with the state’s Department of Justice. This allows an individual to guard against mistakes when transporting a gun into California that can otherwise lead to an illegal weapons charge.
If an individual faces an illegal weapons charge in California, It is beneficial to find legal help right away. A criminal defense attorney can review a defendant’s illegal weapons charge and consider myriad options to dispute it. The lawyer works in lockstep with a defendant to accomplish the optimal case result.
Remain persistent when disputing an illegal weapons charge. Communicate and collaborate with a criminal defense attorney to identify the best way to combat this charge. By doing so, a defendant and their attorney can create a successful legal strategy.
What Attorney Should I Hire to Defend Against an Illegal Weapons Charge in California?
Simmrin Law Group offers comprehensive legal help to those who face illegal weapons charges in California. We can review your case at any time. To learn more, please contact us today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form