Sacramento Weapons Violation Defense Lawyer
Criminal charges related to the misuse of firearms and other dangerous weapons can carry extremely severe penalties, especially in a tightly regulated state like California. If you have been implicated in such a case, our Sacramento weapons violation defense attorneys can help you defend your rights and protect your freedom.
At The Ward Firm, our gun lawyers understand the sensitive and complex nature of weapons charges and have seen firsthand how a defendant’s ability to secure quality legal representation is so often crucial to the results of a case. As such, we are ready to do whatever is necessary to guide your unique case to the most positive outcome, whether that means negotiating a fair plea deal or beating bogus charges in court.
The criminal justice system in California’s capital city is aggressive and well-funded, but help is only a click or call away. Lean on The Ward Firm’s track record of success and exhaustive mastery of state and federal firearms laws. Don’t let a single mistake or bad situation permanently and drastically impact your life–The Ward Firm is ready to provide the guidance and advocacy you need to get through this challenging legal situation.
Understanding Types of Weapons Violations in Sacramento, California
California has some of the most extensive–and strictest–firearms laws in the nation, and convictions for such violations can result in life-changing consequences. Depending on the nature of the situation and the specific details surrounding it, gun charges can result in penalties like:
- Imprisonment
- Probation
- Large fines
- Loss of firearms privileges
A full run-down of California’s extensive firearms laws would be extensive, but some types of violations that can result in criminal charges include:
- Possession of a firearm in a place where weapons are explicitly prohibited (school grounds, etc.)
- Possession of an unregistered firearm
- Possession of an illegal type of firearm
- Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person
- Carrying a concealed weapon without the proper permits
- Unlawfully brandishing or discharging a firearm
- Improper sale or transfer of firearms
- Enhanced charges for using a firearm during the commission of another criminal offense
The above are only generalized examples, not specific legal codes, and they will not represent every possible criminal scenario related to guns and other weapons. Criminal matters involving guns can be very complex and, per the final bullet point above, are often entangled with other types of criminal charges, making them even more difficult to navigate without specific legal training and a practical courtroom background.
For personalized advice specific to your own situation, please reach out to The Ward Firm at your earliest convenience. Whether you have just been charged or are awaiting trial and looking for a change in representation, our gun lawyers would be happy to take a look at your case and offer feedback through a no-pressure consultation.
The Value of a Strong Defense for California Gun Charges
A weapons-related charge can carry significant repercussions for the convicted. Prison time, massive fines, and a loss of 2nd Amendment privileges are all extremely serious matters. However, it’s important to understand that the real penalties for a weapons charge can go well beyond the official sentence. Having a gun crime on your record can also impact things like:
- Employment opportunities
- Housing applications
- Interpersonal relationships
- Your ability to participate in hunting and firearms sports
- Your ability to legally own a gun to defend yourself, your family, and your property
California prosecutors take gun cases very seriously, so you need to do the same when planning a criminal defense strategy. Choosing qualified, competent Sacramento weapons violation defense attorneys you can trust to handle the unique details of your case is key to defending yourself and safeguarding your future. Whether you are facing a routine misdemeanor or complex, high-profile felony charges, The Ward Firm has world-class defense solutions to help you.
Types of Defense Strategies Often Used Against Gun Crime Charges
Every gun case is unique, and every defense must be customized accordingly. Some examples of potentially effective defenses in gun cases include:
- Lack of Knowledge – Sometimes, it can be convincingly proven that you were not aware of the firearm’s presence in the first place, leading to a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Illegal Search and Seizure – It’s important to remember that law enforcement officers themselves must also follow the law. If your Fourth Amendment rights or other legally protected rights were violated during your arrest or questioning, the prosecution’s key evidence might be found inadmissible.
- Permits and Licenses – If you can demonstrate that you did, in fact, have legal authorization to carry and possess the firearm in question, charges may be dismissed entirely.
- Self-Defense – The threshold for self-defense may be different (and more closely scrutinized) in California when compared to other states, but many gun cases will nonetheless hinge on the concept of lawful self-defense.
- Mistaken Identity – Many times, when a premeditated crime is committed with a gun, the perpetrator will wear a mask, gloves, and dark clothing to avoid being identified. This can naturally lead to cases where the wrong person is arrested after being mistaken for a hard-to-identify shooter. In such cases, The Ward Firm can help you present a solid alibi to the court.
The Ward Firm – Effective Legal Help for Sacramento Weapons Charges
When facing weapons charges in California, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. The Ward Firm is founded and led by a former prosecutor, meaning we know California authorities and their methods inside and out. We offer personalized defense strategies, aggressive advocacy, and comprehensive legal support to Californians accused of gun crimes and other weapons-related charges.
If you need dedicated assistance navigating a weapons case or would like a second opinion about your current defense strategy, please don’t hesitate to contact our offices to set up an initial consultation. When your future is on the line, The Ward Firm is the ally you need. Put our powerful, cost-effective legal solutions to work for you in your time of greatest need.
Schedule a Free Consultation
At your free initial consultation, you will meet directly with Justin, and he will explain how he can best help you with your case. If you decide to work with us, we will immediately get started on creating a strategy that protects your interests.
To get more information, call our office at 916-443-2474 or send us an email using our contact form. We are available by phone 24 hours a day. Se habla español.