Los Angeles Gun Crime Lawyers

Do You Need a Trusted Los Angeles Gun Charge Lawyer?

Being convicted of gun charges can forever alter the course of your life. With California having some of the most stringent gun laws in the nation, it is easy to run afoul of these rules by accident or due to a misunderstanding. Fortunately, Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP is here to aid you in your time of need.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we will leave no stone unturned in terms of your defense. We will explain the charges you face and then help you resolve them as quickly as we possibly can. Do not let an accusation take away your freedom and good name!

Call our office at (213) 688-0460 to schedule a free consultation with a Los Angeles violent crime attorney, and let us start your defense.

Why Choose Our Los Angeles Gun Crime Lawyers?

• Over 30 years of courtroom experience handling gun-related and violent felony cases in California.
• Mark J. Werksman is a former Assistant United States Attorney and Deputy District Attorney with extensive experience in prosecuting and defending firearms charges.
• Alan Jackson, former Assistant Head Deputy of the L.A. County DA's Major Crimes Division, has litigated some of California's most high-profile weapons cases.
• Kelly Quinn, a certified specialist in writs and appeals, provides crucial appellate strategy for firearm convictions.
• AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the firm's top-tier ethical and legal standards.
• Successfully represented clients in cases involving concealed weapons, unlawful possession, and firearm-related assault.
• Multiple attorneys named to Super Lawyers, recognized for criminal defense in complex weapon and violence-related cases.
• Experience with gun enhancements, which can add years or decades to prison sentences.

Who May Possess a Gun in California?

California gun laws allow most adults age 21 and older in the state to buy a firearm without a license. Unless you are prohibited by law from owning a handgun, you may legally keep a gun within your house or a place of business. You may also legally carry a gun from place to place in a locked container.

The following people are prohibited from acquiring or possessing a gun in California, and if found in possession of a gun, can face prosecution:

• Any individual convicted of a felony offense.
• Any person who is addicted to narcotics.
• An individual with two or more convictions under California's law against brandishing a weapon, Penal Code 417.
• Individuals convicted of certain misdemeanor offenses, like a charge of child endangerment (California Penal Code 273).
• Any person who suffers from mental illness.
• An individual placed on two involuntary psychiatric holds in a year is banned from owning a firearm for life.
• People under the age of 18 may not have personal possession of a firearm, and people under 21 years old are barred from purchasing firearms.

California Penal Code 29810 mandates that people convicted of the requisite crimes must relinquish their firearms to authorities. Also, if you are prohibited from owning a gun, you are also prohibited from owning ammunition and even magazines.

Types of Gun Charges We Handle in Los Angeles

Some common gun charges in California include:

• Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm: If a person is in possession of an unlicensed firearm in his home or work, he can be charged with a misdemeanor. If you take an unlicensed firearm outside these locations, you can face felony charges and a minimum sentence of three years.
• Possession of an Illegal Weapon or Banned Accessories: If an individual is found to be in possession of a variety of banned weapons and accessories such as stun guns, assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, armor-piercing rounds, and silencers, he can have gun charges brought against him.
• Barred Individuals Being in Possession of Firearms: Convicted felons, individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors, and persons addicted to narcotics are not allowed to own, possess, purchase, or receive guns in the state of California.
• Carrying a Concealed Firearm: It is illegal to carry a concealed firearm on your person or inside of a vehicle. The gun must be unloaded and in a locked box if you are transporting it either on your person or inside a vehicle.
• Carrying a Loaded Gun in Public: Open carry of loaded guns is illegal in California unless you have a permit. If you carry a gun in certain restricted places, like schools, university grounds, or government buildings, you will face additional charges.
• Brandishing a Weapon: If an individual draws, displays, or uses a firearm or deadly weapon in an angry or threatening manner, he can be charged with brandishing a weapon. If a person is injured while a weapon is being brandished, the offender in question will face additional penalties.
• Assault with a Firearm: Any attempt to injure someone with a firearm is considered assault, regardless of whether an injury is inflicted or not.
• Shooting at Dwellings: It is a violation of the law to shoot at or near buildings or vehicles. The individual firing the gun and any person found aiding and abetting the shooter can be charged. Different penalties will apply depending on whether the building or vehicle was occupied at the time of the shooting.

Consequences of a Conviction

California is famously one of the strictest states when it comes to gun possession, and the penalties are just as thorough and harsh. Most gun crimes are either wobblers or felonies, meaning you could automatically lose your right to possess a gun for the rest of your life upon conviction. But certain misdemeanor convictions can also result in a ban of up to 10 years, such as for domestic violence, brandishing a weapon, and assault.

For brandishing a weapon, possessing an unlicensed or illegal firearm, and carrying a concealed weapon, a defendant can face:

• Misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
• Felony: Up to three years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.

When a gun is discharged or someone is injured during a crime, a defendant may face even more serious charges, including:

Assault with a Firearm: For a misdemeanor, you face up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine, and for a felony, up to four years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. These maximum penalties apply to generic firearms, but this charge can be enhanced in cases involving semiautomatics, assault rifles, and certain rifles. A defendant can also face additional charges if the victim was a police officer or firefighter or if the defendant committed another crime.

Shooting at Dwellings: For a misdemeanor, you face up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine, and for a felony, up to seven years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.

Lastly, if you commit a separate felony crime with a gun, you may run across California's "10-20-Life" law. Under Penal Code 12022.53 PC, if you are convicted of a felony crime while using a gun, you can face an additional 10 years in prison. If you actually fired a gun, then the sentence becomes 20 years, and if someone is seriously injured or dies, then you face 25 years to life. Beating these charges requires a strong defense headed up by a diligent and experienced legal team.

Case Results

Battery Accusation – No Jail Time, No Fine

A former police officer was accused of battery. Notwithstanding that the incident was caught on videotape, Alan Jackson secured a dismissal of all charges in favor of an infraction with no jail time and no fine.

Assault Accusation – Not Guilty

Mark Werksman's client was accused of assaulting an off-duty Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Deputy. He faced three years in state prison. After a week-long jury trial, he was found not guilty.

Assault Charge – Dismissal

A Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP attorney obtained a dismissal of all charges against an NFL player charged with committing an assault on an airline employee captured on video and widely distributed on social media.

Client Testimonials

"Alan Jackson As My Lead Attorney […] Was the Best Decision of My Life" - Anonymous (5-Star Avvo Review)

Best attorney in L.A.! Having Alan Jackson as my lead attorney on 3 separate cases (one felony and two misdemeanors) was the best decision of my life. I was facing 6-8 years in prison, and he was able to have all three charges dismissed. He's got the skills, connections, and charisma to aid anyone in any situation. He's a Hollywood, a-list attorney who is empathetic and can make the connection to anyone's situation. Now he and his team come at a price, but hell, it's damn worth every penny if you want to be represented by the best that Southern California has to offer. You simply cannot put a price on the service that he and his reputable firm bring to your side. I interviewed several prominent law firms before I chose Alan Jackson. He has that "it" factor, folks, and you can sense it right away. Thanks again, Alan, for being the best sir.

"Such a Competent, Sharp, and Efficient Lawyer" - Dina Benedetto (5-Star Google Review)

If Alan Jackson's fee was 6 million dollars, it would be money well spent. I've never experienced such a competent, sharp, and efficient lawyer as him. The legal system can be a 50/50 shot of fair or unfair, but either way, your best shot at winning your case is with him.

How We Can Defend You

Each case is different, and California’s complex gun laws are intimidating for a defendant. But if you work with a defense attorney at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, your case will be handled with professionalism, experience, and skill. When you hire our law firm, you not only get the knowledge of a veteran defense lawyer – you get a whole team of trial attorneys you can rely on. We will review every detail of your case, research the nature of your arrest, and aggressively defend you in the courtroom. We have an in-depth understanding of Los Angeles’s courts and know how to counter every one of the prosecution’s arguments.

Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to use several defenses, including:

• You had a permit for your gun.
• You only fired in self-defense or in the defense of others.
• Your gun accidentally discharged.
• The police illegally searched your property and seized evidence.

Remember, it is up to the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you violated a California gun law. If they cannot clearly outline how you broke the law, then you do not deserve to go to prison. Our Los Angeles gun crime attorneys can work through the details of your case and develop a strong defense to protect your freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gun Crimes in Los Angeles

What is considered a gun crime under California law?

Gun crimes include unlawful possession, use, brandishing, or discharge of a firearm. Charges range from carrying a concealed weapon to assault with a firearm. They can be either misdemeanors or felonies in Los Angeles, depending on the circumstances.

Can I be charged if the gun wasn't loaded or never fired?

Yes. In California, even an unloaded firearm can lead to criminal charges if carried unlawfully or brandished in a threatening manner.

Are there mandatory minimum sentences for gun crimes?

Yes. Enhancements under PC §12022.53 can add 10, 20, or 25 to life years to a sentence if a firearm is used during certain felonies. We fight to eliminate or reduce these enhancements when possible.

Can I carry a firearm if I have a concealed carry permit (CCW)?

Only if your permit is valid and recognized in California, and even then, restrictions apply. Carrying outside permitted zones or while under the influence can still lead to arrest.

What if I acted in self-defense?

California recognizes the right to self-defense, but the use of a firearm must be reasonable and proportionate. We have extensive experience establishing lawful self-defense and protecting clients from unjust charges.

Can a gun charge affect my immigration status?

Yes. Many gun charges are considered deportable offenses or crimes of moral turpitude. Non-citizens should seek immediate legal help to mitigate immigration consequences.

What defenses are available in gun crime cases?

Potential defenses include:

• Unlawful search and seizure
• Lack of knowledge or intent
• Valid permit or lawful possession
• Self-defense or defense of others
• Mistaken identity or fabricated allegations

Will a gun charge stay on my record permanently in California?

Felony convictions stay on your record unless expunged or reduced. Some misdemeanor firearm offenses may be eligible for post-conviction relief. We guide clients through record clearance options.

Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP Will Focus on Protecting Your Freedom

Do not let gun charges, including a charge of arms trafficking, throw a wrench into your life. Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP will aggressively defend clients from any and all charges that they face. We know the ins and outs of criminal defense in California, and we have a track record of victory.

To learn more about how we can defend you or a loved one from gun charges, contact our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 to discuss your case and let us fight for you.

Additional Information

• What the President’s Ghost Gun Order Means for Californians
• Understanding California’s Gun Laws
• The Facts About Concealed Carry in California
• California Gun Laws and Violations
• California Penal Code 29810