Weapons Charges in California

California generally allows its citizens to own firearms, except for convicted felons, those convicted of certain misdemeanors, those who are addicted to drugs, those who are mentally incompetent, and minors under the age of 18. In California, you can openly carry a weapon that is unloaded and unlicensed, providing it is not concealed and not openly carried in certain environments, like school zones and government buildings. In order to carry a concealed weapon, you must obtain a permit to do so. These permits are granted to those who have a justified reason for them and who have completed an approved training class in the handling of firearms.

Those accused of carrying a concealed weapon in public without a permit are in violation of California Penal Code 12025. Those who carry a loaded firearm in public without a permit are in violation of California Penal Code 12031 which prohibits this. If you are discovered to have a loaded firearm which is concealed as well (without a permit) you may be charged with both violations. Furthermore, if you draw, exhibit, or brandish a firearm in a manner which can be interpreted as threatening, angry, or intimidating, you may be charged with another California Penal Code violation which prohibits these actions. These violations may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.

Experienced Criminal Defense in Los Angeles

The laws concerning weapons can be complicated and weapons charges can have serious consequences. If you are in the greater Los Angeles area, you can get the legal answers you need concerning these charges from the criminal defense firm of Martinian & Associates. If you have been charged with any type of offense connected with weapons, discussing your case with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at the firm can be an invaluable step.