The Second Amendment guarantees Americans the right to bear arms, but legislators and courts are constantly debating exactly where to draw the line on that right. One area of the gun rights issue that’s particularly problematic is the issue of privately made firearms, often called “ghost guns.” These self-made firearms pose a serious threat to […]
Caught With An Unserialized, Stolen or Unregistered Firearm in Vista?
California has many laws limiting the types of weapons a person may own in the state, prohibiting guns such as assault-weapons and machine guns. But even a firearm that is otherwise legal can be illegal if it was unregistered, stolen, or if the serial number was altered or removed. Fortunately, there are defenses against all […]
Can Teachers Carry Guns on Campus in California?
School shootings have become a sad reality in our current world. While some people argue the solution lies in creating more gun laws to prohibit potential mass murderers from gaining access to these weapons, others believe we should instead ensure more “good guys,” such as teachers, have firearms so potential killers can be stopped before […]
Can You be Convicted of Domestic Violence and Still be in the Military?
We have already discussed how a domestic violence conviction can prevent you from being able to possess a firearm and how felonies can prohibit you from entering the military without a wavier, but what what happens if you get a domestic violence charge while in the military? Unfortunately, the outlook for military careers isn’t good […]
Can Someone Charged With Domestic Violence Become a Cop?
We’ve previously discussed how a domestic violence charge can prevent someone from joining the armed forces and likely end any military career. When many people find this out, they assume the same would be true for police officers, but in practice, the effects of a domestic violence conviction are somewhat different for those in law […]
What Happens If You’re Caught With a Weapon in a California Prison?
Those sentenced to jail and prison are subject to many additional rules not applicable to those outside, particularly when it comes to what they are permitted to have in their possession. These rules can apply to things like cellphones or alcohol, but the most serious form of contraband in prison are weapons. If you or […]
Possession of a Firearm and Drugs in California
Some drugs cause paranoia, and dealing and purchasing drugs can sometimes be dangerous. With these things in mind, it’s not surprising that many people who are arrested with drugs also carry weapons. Unfortunately, just carrying a gun and any amount of certain drugs is a criminal act in itself. Here’s what you should know about California’s possession of […]
Are Sawed-Off Shotguns Illegal In California? Understanding 33215 (PC)
California state law prohibits manufacturing, possessing, selling, or importing short-barreled shotguns or rifles. Manufacturing includes sawing the barrel from a shotgun to make it a “sawed off” model. Possession charges can still be filed even if the weapon is in pieces as long as it can easily be reassembled. Contact a defense lawyer immediately if […]
California Knife Laws: 21310 (PC)
Knife laws in California can be notoriously confusing, with multiple penal codes dictating what is and is not legal to possess and carry in the state. Additionally, many local city and county ordinances add further restrictions. Before you carry any weapon, it’s wise to learn what restrictions may apply so you do not run afoul […]
246 (PC) and 247b (PC): Shooting at a Dwelling, House or Vehicle
Shooting into a structure such as a home, car, motorhome or aircraft is unquestionably dangerous. In many cases, it’s impossible to tell if anyone is inside or not, which is precisely why you can face felony charges whether or not a dwelling was occupied. What specific charges you’ll face, as well as the penalties will […]
