According to California Penal Code, a wallet gun refers to any firearm that has been mounted or enclosed in a case. Generally speaking, the type of case used looks like a wallet, which is where the name comes from. One of the reasons this type of weapon is so dangerous is because it can be fired from within the case.

Wallet guns are not legal in California

California’s firearms laws make it clear that it is not legal to manufacture, import, keep for sale, sell, give, lend, or possess a wallet gun. If a person is found in possession of a wallet gun then they may be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the facts of the case. They could face jail time, probation, and fines.

There are many prohibited weapons under the same penal code

Wallet guns are made illegal under a penal code that discusses what are referred to as “generally prohibited weapons.” There are numerous weapons listed as such in addition to wallet guns. They include ballistic knives, nunchakus (aka nunchucks), cane guns, metal knuckles (aka brass knuckles), short-barreled rifles, and shurikens.

The potential consequences for breaking the law re: wallet guns

If a person is caught owning, possessing, selling, manufacturing, or is otherwise involved illegally with wallet guns, they face the loss of any wallet guns they have as well as either misdemeanor or felony charges. This is a wobbler offense in California which means it can be charged either way, depending on the specifics of the case.

A person convicted of a misdemeanor possession of a wallet gun can face up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. On the other hand, conviction for a felony charge related to a wallet gun can result in as long as three years in jail and fines of as long as $10,000. As you can see, the difference between potential charges is significant and it is important to have the right attorney to fight them with.

Defending charges regarding wallet guns

There are certain people that are exempt from being prosecuted for possessing a wallet gun. For example, an authorized antique dealer can legally possess the wallet gun, though they may not be able to legally sell it. A member of certain law enforcement agencies may have the legal right to sell, transfer, or possess a wallet gun.

When you talk to us at Law Office of Michael L. Fell the first thing we will do is offer a free consultation. If the evidence against you is weak or was illegally obtained then we will likely fight to have the charges dropped or dismissed. On the other hand, if there is a wealth of evidence then we may negotiate with the prosecution for the best possible plea idea. To find out what your options are, contact (949) 585-9055 now.