California has some of the strictest firearms laws in the country. Their complication means that sometimes people are arrested and charged for crimes they did not even know were illegal. This can be the case with wallet guns. Keep reading to find out what your rights are to carry a wallet gun, and then contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 if you are arrested for carrying a wallet gun or another firearm infraction.

What is a Wallet Gun?

According to California law, a wallet gun refers to any firearm that has been mounted to a case or is enclosed in a case. The cases often look like wallets, which is where this type of gun gets its name from. It is possible to fire a wallet gun without taking it out of the case and these guns can be carried in purses or even pockets.

Are Wallet Guns Illegal?

Yes, in the state of California. It is illegal to manufacture, possess, import, keep for sale, offer for sale, give, or lend a wallet gun in this state. If you do any of those things, you can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on how the prosecution decides to charge you. Their decision will be based on your past criminal history and the specifics of this arrest.

What Other Weapons Are Illegal?

Penal Code 16590 lists some prohibited weapons, including wallet guns. Other weapons on the list include shurikens, ballistic knives, short-barreled rifles, cane guns, nunchakus, and metal knuckles. Note that it is illegal to manufacture, cause to be manufactured, possess, sell, offer for sale, give, lend, or import into the state any of the above-listed weapons – even in private. Even if the person has a permit to carry a concealed weapon.

Potential Penalties for Possession of a Wallet Gun

First, a person caught with a wallet gun is going to lose the gun. Second, they can be charged with a criminal offense. Possession of a wallet gun is a wobbler offense, which means it can be charged as a felony or as a misdemeanor. A conviction of misdemeanor possession can result in up to one year in county jail and files of up to $1,000.

If a person is convicted of a felony charge related to a wallet gun, they can spend up to three years in jail and pay fines of as much as $10,000. Note that there are some people who can legally possess a wallet gun, such as a police officer and an antique dealer.

Have You Been Charged with a Firearm-Related Charge?

If you have been charged with a firearms crime, then it is time to contact a criminal defense attorney. You can reach Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 now to request a free legal consultation.