California is one of the top restrictive states for gun owners. There are currently 107 laws that restrict firearms to some extent. If you have been criminally charged with a weapons offense, our legal team is here to help you through this.
The state laws surrounding weapons charges can be challenging to understand, and you might face federal charges in some situations. You can get the legal protection you need with a weapons charges lawyer in West Covina. The Simmrin Law Group has experience winning cases just like yours.
How Much does It Cost to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A seasoned lawyer is capable of clearing or reducing your weapons charge, but it will cost you. The average cost of a weapons defense attorney can range from $1,500 to $3,500 per hour for more experienced lawyers. The depth of your case and any special fees like filing fees will add to the rate. Our team can offer you an initial consultation free of charge.
For a free legal consultation with a weapons charges lawyer serving West Covina, call (310) 928-9347
Should I Represent Myself or Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
When navigating a case with a weapons offense, a criminal defendant can partake in pro se representation, hire an attorney or ask for a public defender. Selecting the option that increases the possibility of winning your case can be decided by assessing who has more legal experience. The factors drastically improve your odds of a favorable outcome:
Knowing the Criminal Justice System
Criminal law requires tactical defense. Ensuring that your legal option is up-to-date with policy changes and legal framework strengthens your strategy.
Efficiently Managing Paperwork
There are many documents that require attention to detail, depth and submission by a certain deadline. Caseload paperwork can be a tedious task with catastrophic consequences if done wrong.
Protecting Your Constitutional Rights
Perhaps evidence was mishandled or an unfair plea is on the table. An expert lawyer will assist you in weighing options that are fair to you and your rights at all times.
Understand, it is your right to represent yourself or ask for a public defender if you can not afford an attorney. During a free case evaluation, your legal needs can be addressed with an attorney.
West Covina Weapons Charges Lawyer Near Me (310) 928-9347
What Are the Laws for Owning Guns in West Covina?
Even though firearm ownership is a Constitutional right, there are exceptions to this rule. The state of California has made it illegal for members of certain groups to own a firearm. The “felon with a firearm” law prohibits these individuals from gun ownership:
- Convicted Felons
- Narcotic Drug Addicts
You can also be prohibited from owning a firearm by certain protective or restraining orders and if you were convicted of some misdemeanors.
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Can You Sell Firearms in West Covina?
Selling, leasing, or otherwise changing the ownership of a firearm is heavily regulated. You must have a license to sell or lease a firearm in West Covina. There are exceptions to this rule, but they can be difficult to understand and may lead to an accidental breach of the law.
The punishment for the unlicensed sale of a firearm is a fine of $1,000 and jail time for 6 months. Even with a license, you can also face charges for selling or purchasing an assault rifle. Make sure you’re following all of California’s laws surrounding the sale of firearms by working with a criminal defense lawyer in West Covina.
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State Gun Laws and Penalties for West Covina, CA
The California Department of Justice Bureau of Firearms prohibits most individuals from carrying firearms while in public. Note that you may apply for a concealed carry permit (CCP) to get around these laws. Without a permit, you can be charged for:
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon
- Carrying a Loaded Firearm
You cannot legally conceal a weapon on yourself or in your vehicle in West Covina without a permit. You can be fined $10,000 and sentenced to 3 years of jail time if you are caught carrying a concealed weapon illegally. You can face harsh penalties if you are caught with a loaded firearm, even if the gun does not function.
What Is Considered a Concealed Weapon in California?
The legal definition of a weapon can be stretched by prosecutors. Concealed pertains to any weapon that is carried in a way that others can not see it. The following objects can all be considered a weapon in court:
- Rifles and Revolvers
- Handguns and Shotguns
- Tasers and Antique Guns
- Pens
- Scissors
- Baseball Bats
- Rocks
- Beer Bottles
- Knives
- Power Tools
- Clubs
- Swords
Penalties for Weapons Charges in California
California legislation harshly penalizes the act of brandishing a deadly weapon. You can be criminally charged for displaying a weapon in a threatening way resulting in a three-year prison conviction and high fines.
You can also be charged with negligent discharge for recklessly firing a gun, leading to fines of $10,000 and three years of jail if you intentionally fire the weapon. Improve your odds of winning in court by getting a skilled weapons offense lawyer in West Covina.
What Defense Strategy Can be Used for a Weapons Charge in West Covina?
Working with a weapons defense attorney in West Covina can ensure a reduction in charges in some cases and an acquittal in others. Commonly, entrapment, fourth amendment violation, self-defense and accidentally discharging a firearm can be a strong defense. Each defense requires validating elements.
Defend Yourself Against Weapons Charges in West Covina
Being criminally charged is life-changing. Contact us for expert legal support. We have weapons charges attorneys in West Covina who can evaluate your case for free. Our defense strategy will ensure that you aren’t being accidentally charged and that none of your constitutional rights were violated.
Call or text (310) 928-9347 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form