Jail or Prison Time
California has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation. Consequently, a weapon charge involving a firearm can result in a lengthy sentence. While weapon charges for firearms are common, other items such as knives, clubs, sticks, and even sports equipment also attract charges when used as weapons. An experienced Riverside weapon charges lawyer will help you with your case if you are facing such charges.
You may be charged with a Riverside weapon offense if you:
If you are facing a weapons charge, a Riverside weapon charges lawyer can help you with your case. Our team of criminal defense attorneys understands the severity of weapons charges. We work quickly to block evidence against your weapons charge, build a strong defense for your case, analyze any plea bargains offered to you, and represent you in court.
The possession of an illegal weapon is a serious criminal offense in Riverside. Under the California Penal Code 16590, generally prohibited weapons include:
Objects that are not classified as prohibited weapons can still be considered weapons when used in the commission of a crime. Regardless of whether a prohibited weapon or improvised weapon was used, possible weapon charges include:
If you are found guilty of a weapons charge, you risk harsh penalties, imprisonment, and the loss of your rights to wield firearms. Therefore, it’s best to hire a Riverside weapon charges attorney immediately when faced with weapons charges.
Alejandro handled my criminal case. I was looking at a lot of time and he fought for me for over a year and a half and got me the best possible outcome. He was always honest and upfront about everything. Even after my criminal case was over he would still check on me just to see how I was doing. ( still does ) He was an absolute godsend and always encouraged me to not give up and keep going. Couldn’t ask for a better lawyer.
The penalties for weapons charges in Riverside vary depending on each case. A person can get misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the severity of the crimes.
A weapons offense in areas such as airports, schools, and federal property may aggravate the nature of the charges.
Our experienced Riverside weapon charges attorneys are ready to assist you. With a reliable attorney on your side, you can prepare a comprehensive defense to protect you from criminal charges. We will immediately begin to investigate your charges, the circumstances of the incident, and possible defenses for your case.
The accused is taken into custody. Police will ask basic discovery questions like name and address to identify a person, then pivot to more specific questions related to the incident.
You have the right to remain silent to avoid disclosing evidence that could potentially be self-incriminating, as well as the right to an attorney to defend you in court.
The police will take you in for booking — Police will fingerprint you and get and updated photograph for their records. After, you’ll be given a chance to contact your criminal defense lawyer.
The arraignment is the final date for you to decide how you’re going to plea. If you plead guilty, the case is set for a sentencing date. If you plead not guilty, your attorney will prepare for trial.
In the discovery stage, you’ll get to see exactly what evidence the prosecution has against you. This is when your attorney can make additional requests for evidence if need be and strengthen your defense.
Accepting the plea bargain is the last chance to plead guilty before the trial. Reduced charges may be presented to quickly settle the case and avoid trial.
The prosecutor presents the case to the jury. Any evidence or witness statements are shared at at this time. Afterward, it’s your lawyers turn to take the stands and share your side of the story. The jury will make a final verdict.
At sentencing, the Judge must decide the appropriate legal penalty for the crime you were found guilty of. Decisions are based on the advised penalties for the specific charges in question.
Jail or Prison Time
Substantial Fines
Lengthy Probation
License Suspension
Mandatory Education
Your weapon charges attorney uses various defenses to protect you from criminal charges. Common defenses include:
There are more than twenty illegal weapons under the California Penal Code 16590. Examples are ballistic knives, air gauge knives, weapons with flechette darts, explosive substances, cane guns, wallet guns, metal (brass) knuckles, nunchucks, and more. However, even everyday objects can be considered weapons under certain circumstances, so even if you were carrying an object such as a large rock, it could result in weapon charges even if it is not covered in this statute.
If you are convicted of a weapons charge, future employers and landlords may use the criminal charges against you. You may also face long periods of imprisonment and lose the right to own weapons such as firearms in the future. Hiring a Riverside weapon charges lawyer helps you fight the long-term effects of a criminal offense.
The district attorney is building their case against you right now. The Prosecutor will not take your charges lightly — Will you?