Have prosecutors charged you with a gun crime in Van Nuys, CA? California has some of the nation’s strictest gun laws, so you need hard-hitting legal counsel to help you pursue a favorable resolution to firearms charges. Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling to get help from a Van Nuys gun crimes lawyer.
What are Gun Crimes in Van Nuys, California?
At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, a Van Nuys gun crimes attorney can help you resolve charges such as:
- Brandishing a firearm
- Negligent discharge of a firearm
- Unlicensed carrying of a concealed firearm
- Possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose
- Possession of an illegal firearm (e.g., machine gun, sawed-off shotgun, firearm with altered or destroyed serial number)
- Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon or domestic abuser
- Assault or aggravated assault with a firearm
- Making false statements to obtain firearms
- Transfer of large-capacity magazines
- Possession of unregistered firearms
Penalties for Gun Crimes in Van Nuys
Penalties for a conviction for a gun crime in Van Nuys will depend on the severity of the offense. The law grades some less serious gun crimes as misdemeanors, which typically carry penalties of up to a year in jail and several thousands of dollars in fines. However, more severe gun crimes typically qualify as felonies, with penalties that include prison time and higher fines. Various aggravating factors can also increase the penalties for a gun crime, such as prior convictions or prior firearm-related offenses, committing a gun crime in connection with a drug offense or violent crime, or committing a gun crime in or near a protected place, such as a school or public park.
Defenses Against Gun Crime Charges in Van Nuys
Fighting Van Nuys gun crimes charges may involve various defense strategies. Your lawyer might argue:
- You did not have actual or constructive possession of the firearm.
- You have an alibi.
- It is a case of mistaken identity.
- The gun isn’t yours.
- You fired the gun by accident.
- You have a legal right to bear arms.
- Police obtained the firearm in an unlawful search.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling?
California takes weapons offenses seriously. So should you. Choose the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling to advocate in your Van Nuys gun crimes defense case because:
- Attorney Justin E. Sterling has over two decades of experience in the Los Angeles criminal justice system, including extensive trial litigation as a former public defender.
- Our law firm has solid relationships with local prosecutors, judges, and court staff to help resolve our clients’ matters efficiently and effectively.
- We work with outside experts and in-house investigators to build the most robust possible case.
- Our firm limits our caseload to devote maximum attention to you and your needs.
If police arrested you and you now face gun charges, you need skilled legal guidance and advocacy to protect your rights and interests. Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling today for a free consultation with an experienced Van Nuys gun crimes attorney.