Legal Defense of Firearm Charges in California
Carrying an unlicensed weapon can be a crime. Carrying a weapon while committing another offense can enhance the seriousness of a criminal charge and the severity of the potential sentence. The use of a firearm during the commission of another offense, such as a drug offense or theft, can transform that offense into a "strike" crime with possible life altering consequences.
If you have been charged with any firearm or weapons violation, it is important to speak to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact the Law Office of John R. Fielding, Jr. & Associates in San Diego. Our office has succeeded in getting weapons cases dismissed or the charges reduced.
We can assist you in all weapons-related charges, including:
- Concealed firearm/concealed weapon in vehicle
- Loaded firearm
- Unlawful sale
- Unlawful discharge
- Illegal firearm
- Felon in possession
- Machine guns, silencers and other federal violations
- Assault weapons and other items prohibited in California
- Brandishing, assault and questioned self-defense use of firearms, knives and other weapons
The Consequences of Conviction
Firearms crimes carry significant penalties in California and federal courts. If you are convicted of a crime committed with a gun or other firearm, you could spend substantial time in jail or prison. The harshness of the penalty depends on the specific facts of each case, including the type of weapon used, whether the weapon was loaded or concealed, what kind of crime was committed with the weapon, the offender's prior record and drug use. A gun does not have to be operational to be considered a weapon.
California has numerous laws concerning firearms, and it strictly regulates who can lawfully own and carry one. For instance, automatic weapons are illegal for all private citizens to own while certain citizens, such as convicted felons or mental patients, are prohibited from owning any type of firearm.
If you are accused of a crime involving the use of a firearm or other weapon, please contact us. We are conveniently located in downtown San Diego, California, across the street from the main court house.
