Weapons Charges Defense Lawyers in Riverside, CA

Former Prosecutors. Proven Trial Experience. Aggressive Defense.

Facing a gun or weapons charge in Riverside County? California has some of the toughest firearms laws in the nation—and a conviction can lead to jail time, felony strikes, loss of your gun rights, and even deportation if you're not a U.S. citizen. At KCW Law, we are former prosecutors who now use our insider knowledge to aggressively fight weapons charges. With over 100 jury trials between us, we know how to win in the courtroom and protect your freedom.

What Is a Weapons Charge in California?

Weapons offenses in California fall under the Penal Code and often carry mandatory minimum sentences or strike enhancements. Below are the most common charges we defend: Read more at California law on carrying a concealed firearm, California Department of Justice Firearms Laws, and Riverside firearm regulations and permits.

Felon in Possession of a Firearm – Penal Code § 29800

Applies to individuals with felony convictions or certain misdemeanor domestic violence offenses. Penalty: 16 months, 2, or 3 years in prison. May result in a strike under the Three Strikes Law.

Carrying a Concealed Weapon – Penal Code § 25400

Having a concealed firearm on your person or in your vehicle without a valid CCW permit. Penalty: Up to 1 year in jail (misdemeanor) or 16 months to 3 years (felony).

Possession of a Loaded Firearm in Public – Penal Code § 25850

Carrying a loaded firearm in a public place or vehicle. Penalty: Misdemeanor or felony; can include enhancements for prior convictions.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon – Penal Code § 245(a)(1)/(a)(2)

Using a firearm or other weapon to threaten or injure another person. Penalty: 2–4 years in prison.

Possession of an Assault Weapon – Penal Code § 30605

Owning or possessing an illegal firearm such as an AR-15 or AK-47 without proper registration. Penalty: 16 months, 2, or 3 years in state prison.

Possession of Prohibited Weapons – Penal Code §§ 16590 et seq.

Includes brass knuckles, nunchakus, short-barreled shotguns, silencers, and explosive devices. Penalty: Often felonies, carrying up to 3 years in prison.

Firearm Enhancements – Penal Code §§ 12022, 12022.5, 12022.53

Extra prison time added for using or being armed with a firearm during a felony. Examples: +10 years for use, +20 years for discharging, +25-to-life for causing GBI or death.

Gang-Related Weapons Charges – Penal Code § 186.22

Allegations that the weapon was used for the benefit of a criminal street gang. Penalty: Additional 2–15 years or more in prison.

How KCW Law Defends Weapons Charges

Weapons charges often turn on search and seizure issues and who actually possessed the firearm. As former prosecutors, weknow what to look for and how to dismantle the government’s case. We may fight your case by:

Challenging the legality of the stop, search, or arrest

Filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence

Arguing lack of knowledge or possession

Disputing constructive possession in shared spaces or vehicles

Negotiating charge reductions to avoid felonies or strikes

Seeking diversion programs where available

Bilingual Legal Representation for the Latino Community

If you're facing weapons charges and Spanish is your first language, we can help. Our firm proudly serves the Latino community in Riverside. Hablamos español y explicamos sus derechos claramente. No firme nada sin hablar con un abogado.

Local, Aggressive, and Experienced

Located in the heart of Riverside, CA, KCW Law defends clients throughout the Inland Empire. We’ve handled everything from misdemeanor gun possession to high-profile gang-related firearm charges. When your freedom is at stake, we’re the team you want on your side.

Schedule a Free and Confidential Consultation Today

Weapons charges can have lifelong consequences. Don’t leave your future to chance. Call KCW Law now at 626-720-1429 or fill out our contact form to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney today.