Criminal Defense Law Monterey

Gun Crimes Attorney in Salinas
Effective Representation for Weapons Charges

HomeCalifornia 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.

If you have been accused of a gun crime, call (831) 751-3947 to get advice that is specific to your situation.

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.

Is it Legal to Borrow a Gun in California 2020?
In 2020 in California, it is illegal to lend a gun unless you go through a licensed firearms dealer. California law exempts from this requirement a loan of a firearm between persons who are personally known to each other if the loan is infrequent and does not exceed 30 days in duration.

Get Advice for Your Situation
Whether you are accused of being in violation of a gun law or charged with a crime that can put your right to own a firearm at risk, you need skilled legal representation. Our Salinas gun crimes lawyer can assess your situation and recommend the best way to proceed in your case.

About The Firm
Providing Legal Service Since 1993

John Klopfenstein has established himself as a reputable and trial-tested lawyer in the Monterey and Salinas area. He has successfully defended cases involving Narcotics, Driving Under the Influence, Domestic Battery, Assault, Robbery, Home Invasion, Trespass, Rape, Grand Theft and Homicide. He is also a member of the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, Monterey County Bar Association Referral Panel, Public Defender Association, California DUI Lawyers Association, and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 for Criminal Defense.

Our Salinas criminal defense attorney is a fearless legal professional who will not sell you out and will keep you out of jail. We handle all areas of criminal law and can get your charges and penalties reduced! Do not hesitate to schedule a free consultation to let us review your case, figure out all your legal options, and help you get the best possible results.