Long Beach Gun Crime Lawyer

Long Beach Gun Crime and Firearms Possession Attorney

When you or a loved one are facing a firearms possession charge, or a related charge, in Long Beach or Orange County, it is highly advisable to retain high-quality legal counsel at your earliest possible convenience. California and local jurisdictions in the state take gun crimes extremely seriously as part of their ongoing efforts to better manage violent crime statewide. Convictions for gun crimes can result in serious prison sentences and other life-altering penalties, depending on the particular circumstances of the case.

Gibbons & Gibbons: Your Long Beach Gun Crime and Firearms Possession Attorneys

The attorneys at Gibbons & Gibbons are highly trusted Long Beach criminal defense lawyers who are able to offer effective, assertive representation in even the most complex criminal cases involving firearms. Whether you are being charged with simple weapons possession or a firearm was an aggravating factor in some other criminal charge, the criminal defense strategists at Gibbons & Gibbons can craft a perfectly tailored defense to effectively mitigate the consequences of even the most serious firearms charges.

Gibbons & Gibbons can provide aggressive representation, in and out of court, for individuals facing criminal charges involving firearms and other weapons. Our firm has: 

• An unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of Californians
• A deep understanding of our state’s complex firearms laws
• A solid foundation in Constitutional law
• An intimate understanding of relevant local and federal statutes

We offer those convicted of serious weapons charges a fighting chance against a powerful criminal justice system.

Our highly successful firearm possession attorneys focus on these highly sensitive criminal defense cases. From simple weapons possession charges to more complex firearms-related offenses, we have a record of providing solid, capable criminal defense when handling a wide range of cases involving firearms and other weapons. When you choose to turn to Gibbons & Gibbons for representation, you’re signing on to work with a dedicated, fierce, and empathetic legal team that can vigorously defend your rights, leverage the power of the United States Constitution, and work tirelessly to secure the ideal outcome for your weapons-related criminal case.

Understanding California Firearm Laws and Regulations

The federal, state, and local policies that make up gun laws in California represent a complex and interconnected legal ecosystem that can be quite challenging to untangle unless one has the prerequisite legal training and experience to do so. Despite its “Wild West” history, California’s current gun laws are among some of the strictest in the nation. Understanding these laws is essential to building a strong defense strategy when you’ve been charged with a gun crime.

Here are some of the key policies that may apply in a California weapons case:

• Open and concealed carry in California: Broadly speaking, it is not legal to openly carry a loaded firearm in most public places in California. Exceptions to this rule include law enforcement officers and those with the proper concealed carry permits. Obtaining a concealed carry permit in California can be rather challenging, and the process may vary slightly from place to place.
• Firearm possession restrictions: Section 29800 of the California Penal Code defines several classes of individuals who are barred from possessing or acquiring a firearm in the state. This includes people with prior felony convictions, active restraining orders, or certain drug misdemeanors. Failing to abide by this rule is, in itself, a felony offense.
• Assault weapons ban: California has also enacted a state-level ban on so-called “assault” weapons, which are more strictly defined by a list of models and manufacturers included in the text of the law. Possessing, building, or selling these prohibited weapons within the state–on any scale and for any purpose–can be treated as a serious criminal offense by the authorities.
• Firearm registration: Generally speaking, there is no mandatory statewide firearms registration in California, but people involved in the importing, reselling, or collecting of certain types of rifles and handguns may be subject to registration requirements. Anyone working with firearms commercially needs to be absolutely certain of all licensing and registration requirements that may apply to them–the attorneys at Gibbons & Gibbons can help.

Weapons Charge FAQs

Q: Can You Carry a Gun in California?

A: As per the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, Californians do have certain inherent gun rights, but they are heavily restricted in many parts of the state. The open carrying of loaded firearms in public places is generally prohibited. California does have legal concealed carry, but the process for obtaining the required permit can be difficult and lengthy.

Q: Can You Get Your Gun Rights Back in California?

A: This depends. Individuals with certain criminal convictions on their record may indeed seek firearm rights restoration through the courts, but eligibility and success rates will vary based on the offense and the convict’s ability to demonstrate meaningful rehabilitation. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine whether you can recover your gun rights based on the specifics of your case.

Q: How Serious Is a Gun Charge in California?

A: Gun charges in California are extremely serious. Depending on the particular offense, penalties can include probation, fines, and prison sentences. Factors like prior convictions and the particular circumstances of the crime will affect the severity of the sentence. Your attorney can give you a better idea of the type of sentence that you may face if you are convicted.

Q: How Much Time Do You Get for a Gun Charge in California?

A: As with many types of crimes, the sentences for gun charges can vary widely. Felonies involving firearms can result in lengthy prison sentences, while misdemeanor charges will more often involve shorter sentences, probation, and/or fines. The exact sentence for a crime will depend on the unique circumstances of the offense.

Contact Gibbons & Gibbons Today

If you or a loved one are involved in firearm-related charges in the Long Beach or Orange County area, don’t attempt to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system alone. The highly qualified team at Gibbons & Gibbons is dedicated to providing aggressive, highly effective legal representation for individuals accused of gun crimes. With Gibbons & Gibbons, fighting for your rights–and your future–is our top priority. Schedule your consultation today.