If you’ve been charged with a weapons crime, a Vista criminal defense lawyer can help you fight your charges. The consequences of a conviction can be life-changing. Whether you’ve been arrested for illegal possession, assault with a firearm, or another offense, legal assistance is crucial to a favorable outcome.
The lawyers at Simmrin Law Group have decades of combined experience. If you’ve been charged with a weapons offense, a Vista weapons charges lawyer can help you develop a strong defense.
Why Hire a Vista Weapons Charges Attorney?
A weapons charges lawyer in Vista can further your case in numerous ways, including by:
- Negotiating for reduced charges or penalties: An attorney can work with prosecutors to seek a plea deal or alternative sentencing.
- Building a strong defense: An attorney can develop a robust defense based on the circumstances of your arrest.
- Representing you: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can advocate for you in court.
For a free legal consultation with a weapons charges lawyer serving Vista, call (310) 896-2723
Penalties for Weapons Charges in California
California imposes serious penalties for weapons-related offenses, including:
- Jail or prison time
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- Loss of gun rights
- Deportation for non-citizens
The severity of the penalties you face will depend on the type of weapon involved, whether the offense was committed in conjunction with another crime, and your criminal history. A weapons charges attorney in Vista can work to minimize the consequences of your arrest.
Vista Weapons Charges Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Common Defense Strategies
A knowledgeable weapons charges attorney will consider a variety of defense strategies, such as:
- Illegal search and seizure: If police found the weapon during an unlawful search, the evidence may be inadmissible in court.
- Lack of knowledge: You may not have known the weapon was in your possession, especially if it was found in a shared vehicle or residence.
- Valid permit or license: If you had the proper documentation to carry or possess the weapon, the charges may be invalid.
- Self–defense: If the weapon was used to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, your actions may be legally justified.
- Weapon not operable: In some cases, an inoperable firearm may not meet the legal definition required for a conviction.
A weapons charges attorney can evaluate your situation and determine the strongest possible defense.
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How Does the Criminal Defense Process Work?
Here’s what you can expect if you’re facing weapons charges in Vista:
- Arrest: You may be taken into custody by local law enforcement or cited and released, depending on the nature of the charge.
- Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where you’ll be formally charged and enter a plea.
- Pretrial proceedings: Your attorney will file motions, negotiate with prosecutors, and review evidence through discovery.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, both sides will present their evidence and arguments to a judge or jury.
- Verdict and sentencing: If you’re found guilty, the judge will issue a sentence based on your charges and the circumstances of the crime.
Many weapons cases are resolved during pretrial negotiations, but your attorney will be prepared to go to trial if necessary. Founding lawyer Michael Simmrin has tried over 100 jury trials. He will use that experience to present the strongest defense possible if your case ends up in court.
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Types of Weapons Charges in California
California’s Penal Code includes a wide range of weapons offenses. Common charges include:
- Illegal possession of a firearm (PC 29800), which prohibits felons and certain other individuals from owning or possessing firearms
- Carrying a concealed weapon (PC 25400), which makes it illegal to carry a firearm hidden on your person or in a vehicle without a valid permit
- Possession of an assault weapon (PC 30605), which bans the possession of certain high-powered firearms classified as assault weapons
- Brandishing a weapon (PC 417), which prohibits displaying a weapon in a threatening or aggressive manner
- Unlawful sale or transfer of firearms (PC 27545), which requires that all firearm sales and transfers go through a licensed dealer
What to Do if You’re Arrested on Weapons Charges
If you’re arrested on a weapons charge, your actions in the aftermath can have a significant impact on your case. Here’s what you should do:
- Comply calmly: Avoid resisting arrest or arguing with officers. Stay calm and cooperative.
- Remain silent: Do not answer questions from police without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Avoid discussing your case: Do not talk to friends, family, or cellmates about your charges. These conversations can be used as evidence.
- Request a lawyer: Politely insist on your right to an attorney and do not waive this right.
Contact a Weapons Charges Lawyer in Vista
Weapons cases can be complicated, which is why it’s so important to seek professional help. If you or someone you love has been arrested on weapons charges, a Vista weapons charges attorney from Simmrin Law Group can gather evidence and build a strong defense.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your case today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form