California has over 100 laws governing how state residents acquire, possess, and handle guns. A gun lawyer in Folsom can explain these laws as they relate to your charges.
In general, most residents who wishes to own a weapon are permitted to if they are at least 21 years old, pass a background check, and complete a gun safety course. Once you own a weapon, you are responsible for maintaining it and using it safely. If the weapon is lost or stolen, you are obligated to report it immediately.
If you buy a weapon outside California, you must ship it to licensed dealer who will follow California procedures. Before taking possession of the gun, you’ll have to pass background check, complete a 10-day waiting period, and you must present your gun safety course certificate.
Some individuals are prohibited from owning guns under California law, such as:
Individuals who are uncertain about their possession eligibility should seek guidance from a gun lawyer. You attorney can assist in the process of applying for a Personal Firearms Eligibility Check (PFEC) through the Department of Justice. It’s important to note that this application pertains solely to California regulations and does not have any bearing on eligibility under federal law.
Walsh Law has years of experience defending against many types of weapons charges, including:
"Mr. Walsh is a great attorney with in depth knowledge on how to navigate the local court system. I recommend him to all the people in the local area who needs a good attorney."
The penalties you can face vary widely depending on the type of gun charge you’re facing. Many gun crimes are wobbler offenses, so they can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances and severity of the alleged offense.
Here are some possible criminal penalties associated with gun charges in Folsom:
In addition to criminal penalties, being convicted of a gun crime can come with other types of fallout, such as:
Being convicted of a felony gun crime could cost you your gun privileges for life, not to mention the possibility of serving time in jail and being ordered to pay hefty fines.
To avoid a conviction and clear your name, you need the help of a Folsom gun lawyer. Your attorney will investigate the charges you’re facing and tailor your defense to the circumstances with strategies such as:
California also recognizes the right to self-defense under Penal Code Section 198.5. Under this law, you have the right to use deadly force if you reasonably fear great bodily injury or death. You have no duty to retreat from a fight — so, for example, if an intruder breaks into your home, you have the right to defend yourself on your property.
Proving self-defense can be tough, which is why it’s crucial to work with an experienced gun lawyer in Folsom who understands the intricacies of the law and how to successfully argue that you were within your rights to use deadly force.
The state attorney general’s website covers many frequently asked questions about California’s gun laws, such as:
Yes, you can carry a concealed weapon with the proper license. The minimum age to receive a concealed carry license is 21 years old, and applicants must complete 16 hours of training. California does not honor any other states’ concealed carry permits, and you may not carry a concealed weapon in places such as schools, courts, government buildings, hospitals, and airports.
There is no limit to the number of handguns that you may own, but you are generally limited to purchasing no more than one handgun every 30 days. However, there are some exceptions to the 30 day rule, such as private party transfers, returns to owners, and handgun transactions between law enforcement officers.
Your guns must be secured in a state-approved locked container if you know or should know that a minor is likely to gain access to it. If a child gains access to a firearm that should have been locked up and causes harm or death to someone else or themselves, you can face felony charges.
We understand how frightening and uncertain it can feel if you’re charged with a gun crime, especially if you’ve never been in legal trouble before. Attorney Chris Walsh knows how to fight these charges because he began his career as a prosecutor. Now, he defends people like you and will work hard to reach a favorable outcome in your case.
Call 916-237-8270 or contact us to schedule a free initial consultation.