California’s firearm laws are more complex than those of many other states. One of the situations many are unsure of is the legality of camouflaging firearm containers. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell we can provide legal representation if you have been charged with a firearm offense. Reach out to our offices at (949) 585-9055 now to find out what your options are.
What does it mean to camouflage a weapon?
A camouflaging firearm container refers to any object that has a gun in it but does not look as though it does. This is known as camouflaging despite the fact that the typical camouflage fabric or pattern is not used. The containers in these situations are also often made so that the firearm can be used without it being removed from the container.
It is illegal to camouflage weapon containers in the following situations
In the state of California, it is illegal to manufacture, give, import into the state, keep for sale, offer for sale, lend, or possess a camouflaging firearm container. If a person is charged with any of these crimes, they can be charged with either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the criminal history of the defendant and the specifics of their case.
The potential punishment for a conviction of camouflaging weapons
According to California law, the above crimes are only illegal if they are done willfully with a specific purpose to possess, feloniously, or unlawfully with a wrongful purpose to possess. Violating these laws can result in a misdemeanor charge, which can come with up to a year in county jail.
A felony offense is punishable for 16 months, two years, or three years. The guilty party may also have to pay a fine between $1,000 and $10,000.
There are other laws that may apply
There are situations in which a person may not meet the above qualifications for having a camouflaged firearm container but still be guilty of a similar crime under the laws against “generally prohibited weapons.” For example, specifically prohibited weapons included concealed daggers, metal knuckles, and belt bucket knives.
Defense options against charges of camouflaging weapons
If you are charged with camouflaging weapons then you will want to speak to a criminal defense attorney right away. Your attorney will go over your case and offer the best way forward. It may involve showing that the weapon in question was not yours, that you did not have intent, or that it was not legally camouflaged.
In the event that there is a wealth of evidence against you, the best way forward may be to negotiate the best plea deal possible. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell you have access to an aggressive, qualified attorney who can offer a wealth of defense services. If you are ready to find out what your options are and to discover the best way forward then we urge you to contact us at (949) 585-9055 now.