California is different from many states in the U.S. in that it is against the law to carry a gun in public without a legal permit. The law does not consider it different for a person to be openly carrying or concealed carrying. In order to legally carry a gun in public, a person needs a permit to carry a concealed weapon (often referred to as CCW permit).

You Must Meet Four Requirements to Obtain a CCW Permit

If you want to apply for a CCW permit in California, you must meet four basic requirements:

1. You must be of “good moral character.”
2. You must complete an approved firearm training class.
3. You must meet the required residential terms for the county in which you are requesting the permit.
4. You must have good cause for carrying a firearm.

If you do not meet one of these requirements then you are likely to be denied a permit.

Many Factors Can Affect a Person’s Eligibility for a CCW Permit

There are a number of factors that could result in your request for the permit being denied. If you have a felony conviction, or certain misdemeanor convictions such as domestic violence, then you will be denied a permit. If you have a history of drug addiction then you may be denied a permit. If you have previously been diagnosed as mentally ill then you will likely not qualify for a CCW permit.

There Are Limits to What You Can Do with a CCW Permit

Each permit comes with individual restrictions, but in most cases a person with a CCW permit can carry a pistol, revolver, or another type of concealable firearm on their person. This includes both loaded and unloaded guns, and it can be concealed or carried openly. There are restrictions on times and places it can be carried.

Some of the limits on carrying a firearm in California include:

• You cannot carry a rifle, assault rifle, or similar large gun unless it is unloaded, in the trunk of the vehicle, and in a locked container.
• You cannot carry or use a gun if you are under the influence of alcohol.
• You cannot threaten or assault someone with a gun unless you are doing so in self-defense.
• You cannot carry a gun in any prohibited location – including Wildlife Management Areas.

Depending on the specific permit, there may be additional limitations put on a person.

What to Do if You Are Charged with a Firearms Charge

If you are charged with a crime related to firearms, the next step is to contact a criminal defense attorney. You have found that attorney in Law Office of Michael L. Fell. Call us now at (949) 585-9055 to request your free legal consultation and to discover what your options are.