If you are charged with this offense in the state of California, there are several reasons to at least seek legal advice from a domestic violence attorney. One of them is the possibility of a lifetime ban on gun ownership following a conviction or guilty plea. After reading this article, call Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation from a domestic violence lawyer if you need one.

Possible repercussions of domestic violence conviction

If you are found guilty of domestic abuse, you could be sentenced to up to four years in jail and up to $6,000 in fines. You can also lose your right to possess a firearm as a result of a law that became effective in January. This is a permanent prohibition; you are not allowed to own a gun for the rest of your life.

More information regarding the ban on gun ownership by domestic violence convicts

In the past, a person convicted of felony domestic violence would be permanently prohibited from owning or possessing a handgun. The right to possess a firearm was suspended for ten years for persons who were found guilty of a specific type of misdemeanor domestic violence offence (one that did not involve bodily harm).

Now, a person cannot legally acquire or possess a gun for the rest of their life if they have been convicted of any domestic violence-related charges, whether they were felonies or misdemeanors.

Potential repercussions of illegal firearm possession

If you possess, acquire, or receive a firearm when you are not authorized to do so, you could suffer severe repercussions, according to California law. If found guilty of illegally possessing a firearm, a person may be sentenced to 16 months, two years, or three years in jail as well as a fine of up to $10,000, albeit the punishments depend on the precise charge and the particulars of the alleged offense committed.

After a domestic violence conviction, gun rights may be restored

We urge you to speak with a lawyer to represent you if you have been accused of domestic abuse. The greatest approach to keep your gun ownership privilege intact is to avoid getting convicted in the first place.

If you have already been found guilty, there may still be ways to get your rights reinstated. Depending on your situation and experience, you can be qualified for a Governor's Pardon or even a Certificate of Rehabilitation. Both of these might enable you to regain your gun ownership rights. For a free legal consultation if you're interested in learning more about the alternatives you could be eligible for, call Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055.