Gun Crimes Lawyer in Salinas and Monterey

California has among the most restrictive gun laws in the United States. The law is complex and there are many legal issues that can arise and put your ability to own a firearm at risk. In these situations, it is important to seek representation from an experienced gun crimes lawyer in Salinas. The Law Office of John Klopfenstein fights for our clients’ civil rights and freedom.

When Owning or Possessing a Firearm is Prohibited

California allows many people to legally possess and own firearms. However, there are several restrictions for owning a firearm and possessing it legally. Most people who are over the age of 21 can own a gun. Individuals may be prohibited from possessing or carrying a firearm based on a number of factors.
Owning or possessing a firearm is prohibited for: 

• Felons
• Minors
• Individuals convicted of some misdemeanors
• Those addicted to narcotics
• Individuals with two or more convictions
• Adjudicated mentally disordered sex offenders

Even if you already legally own a firearm, that right is not guaranteed. For example, if you are convicted of certain crimes, you may lose your right to own a gun for at least 10 years. This can include a conviction for a felony, threatening a police officer, discharging a firearm in a grossly negligent manor, using a firearm or deadly weapon to intimidate a witness, or a domestic violence conviction.

Gun Charges in California

California has stricter gun laws than many other states for the sale, distribution, and possession of firearms. People moving here from other places or unfamiliar with the laws in California may find that they are unknowingly in violation of the law.

• Possession of an illegal weapon – While the Constitution grants citizens the right to bear arms, the state has the right to make certain weapons illegal. In California, it is unlawful to possess machine guns, sawed off shotguns, and armor piercing bullets.
• Unlawful possession of a firearm – If a prior conviction has resulted in a loss of your right to own or possess a firearm and you are found in possession of a weapon, you could be facing additional criminal charges.
• Traveling with a firearm inside your vehicle – The state has set specific rules for carrying a firearm inside a vehicle for handguns, rifles, shotguns, and registered assault weapons. Violation of these laws can result in a charge for violating concealed weapons laws.
• Brandishing a firearm – Exhibiting, drawing, or discharging a firearm is prohibited by California law.

If you are accused of a gun crime or another criminal charge has put your ability to own a firearm at risk, you need advice from an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Our Salinas gun crimes attorney has extensive knowledge of the complexities of California law to provide reliable legal advice.

Can You Have a Loaded Gun in Your House in California?

You are not allowed to have a loaded gun in your house in California. It is highly recommended that you store your guns a State-approved firearm locking device on it (e.g., a trigger lock or a cable lock), put it in a locked container (a lock box or a gun safe), and put the firearm storage in a different location than the ammunition. A violation of the above law is a misdemeanor offense. The crime is punishable by up to one year in county jail. If the violation leads to serious bodily injury or death, the punishment will increase.