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Weapon Offenses: Illegally Owning, Using, or Handling a Weapon

California has some of the strictest stances on gun control and legal gun use in the country. While there are many circumstances in which it is legal to use, handle, or possess a firearm, there are many more ways in which it is illegal to do so. If you are a gun aficionado and living in California, you are going to need to know the basics of the state’s weapons offenses before you run into legal trouble and get charged with a violent crime.

A few of the most common weapons violations are:

  • Carrying a concealed weapon without a license: In order to wield a concealed firearm in California, you need to have a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license that has been issued in California itself. Do not make the mistake of thinking carrying a revealed weapon is not illegal, then. If you have a weapon visible near certain properties or parties, or if you hold it in intimidation, it can still be a crime.
  • Illegal weapons transactions: Selling, buying, trading, or gifting a firearm can be illegal depending on a number of factors, such as the type of firearm and who is involved as the buyer or seller. Want to purchase or sell a weapon? Check with a local criminal defense lawyer to make certain you are not missing any licenses or certifications to do so legally.
  • Illegal weapons modifications: You may be able to legally possess and even carry a weapon, but you might still be prohibited to modifying it as you wish. In California, there is a long list of weapon modifications you may not purchase, sell, create, or use. For example, it is illegal in most circumstances for a civilian weapon to have more than 10 rounds in its magazine.
  • Felony gun possession: Convicted felons in California lose gun ownership and Second Amendment rights by default. You can only restore your gun rights through deliberate efforts. If you have been convicted of a felony of any sort, including a nonviolent felony DUI, you cannot own, handle, or use a firearm until you restore your gun rights.

When all of the rules and regulations about gun use and possession in California are considered, it can be quite confusing to figure out what you may and may not do. Without expecting it at all, you could be targeted by a criminal investigation and arrested for weapons offenses. In case you find yourself in such an unfair and intimidating position, call (707) 418-5352 to connect with Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C. Our Santa Rosa weapons offenses attorney has successfully represented thousands of people in our communities, and he has also earned multiple Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ selections throughout his career.

Need our help with a criminal defense case? Schedule a free initial consultation today.

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