Facing Firearm Charges? Read This.
Do you own a firearm? Are you a felon and don’t even know it? If you live in California and own a firearm, you might be!
Owning a gun is a Constitutional Right but who can own one and what can be possessed can be a difficult question and depends a lot on what state you live in and what items may or may not be in your background.
Over the years, California has adopted numerous firearm rules and regulations and they seem to change year to year. These changes can cause significant problems for California residents if they do not stay up to date and may cause otherwise law-abiding citizens to become felons without even knowing it. One example is California’s ‘Assault Weapon’ rules and regulations.
Imagine a few years ago you went down to Turner’s or your local firearm dealer and purchased a Smith and Wesson M&P Sport in 5.56 caliber. It had a cool pistol grip, stock flash suppressor and adjustable stock. All these features came standard on the rifle. You bought and took it home thinking nothing off it. You put it in your gun safe and there it sits. Then, a couple of years down the road, the California Department of Justice shows up at your house with 15 officers all in S.W.A.T gear and handcuffs you, your wife and scares the daylights out of your small children. Low and behold, the California Legislature had redefined what an ‘Assault Weapon’ was and overnight you became a felon with the wrath of the California Department of Justice raining down on you. You get arrested, have to post bail, get charged with a felony, have to hire an attorney, and risk losing your right to own a firearm for the rest of your life.
Sound crazy? Well, it is true!! There are lots of stories and rumors about what is legal and not legal.
Can I own a magazine with 11+ capacity? Maybe…
Is my AR-15 an illegal assault weapon? Maybe…
Does my misdemeanor conviction mean I cannot own a firearm? Maybe…
Does having my convictions dismissed under 1203.4 mean I get my firearm rights restored?
If you have questions like these, you are not alone. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can go a long way in getting your questions answered.
If you have been charged with a gun crime, give us a call at (909) 771-2304. and we will see what we can do to help.
Bullard & Powell provides legal services to residents in San Bernardino, Inland Empire including Victorville, Apple Valley, and Riverside area.