Gun Laws

The Federal Assault Weapons Ban

A 1994 federal law banning assault weapons expired in 2004, and as of 2013 Congress has not passed a law to replace it.

Juvenile Weapons Possession

All states limit the right to purchase, own, or possess weapons to some extent, though restrictions differ widely. States commonly make it a crime to possess specific types of weapons, to possess weapons in specified locations, or to use weapons in a prohibited manner. When juveniles illegally possesses weapons, they can be charged just like an adult would.

Carrying a Concealed Weapon

Weapons have allowed mankind to overcome the natural world, provide for self-defense, and wage war against enemies. They have also resulted in innumerable crimes, injuries, and deaths. And weapons that are concealed, as opposed to those that are in plain sight, often result in injuries and fatalities that would not have happened had the gun been obvious.

Using a Gun for Self Defense: Laws and Consequences

A person is entitled to use a gun for self defense in the U.S., if necessary, but laws in every state establish when a person can use force to defend himself (or another), and whether a person can use a weapon. Someone who intends to carry or keep a gun for self defense purposes should follow state laws on gun ownership and carrying concealed weapons.

Unlawful Discharge of a Weapon

Unlawful discharge of a weapon crimes can be either misdemeanor or felony offenses depending on the state and the circumstances of the case.

Gun Storage Laws in California

Leaving a loaded gun where a child can find it is not only dangerous, but in some states, including California, it is also illegal and can result in criminal charges for the gun owner.

What kind of “domestic violence” conviction prevents you from having a gun?

Under federal law, it’s a crime for someone convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor domestic violence offense to possess a firearm or ammunition. (States have their own laws that may also prevent one from having a gun.) A misdemeanor in the federal-law context generally qualifies as domestic violence if, first, it involves:

What Is the Legal Way to Bring a Firearm Into California?

It hasn't been uncommon for California residents to buy guns out of state and then bring them home. Today, though, buying a gun in another state and bringing it or shipping it home into California is illegal, with a few exceptions.

Is it Illegal to Possess a Firearm While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs?

It is almost always a crime to possess a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance. Many states also prohibit people from carrying a firearm into establishments that serve liquor (such as bars and nightclubs), even with a concealed carry permit, and even if you are not drinking.

Is it illegal to buy a gun for someone else?

Federally licensed firearm dealers must follow certain procedures before selling people guns. They must, in part, verify the buyer’s identity and run a background check, and they can typically sell only to those who show up in person.

Can I be punished if someone else uses my firearm to commit a crime?

The answer depends on which state you live in. It also depends on whether you purposely provided your gun to the person who committed the crime or if, for example, it was stolen from you.

Can a Past Misdemeanor That's Not Technically "Domestic Violence" Prohibit You From Having a Gun?

It’s a federal crime for someone convicted of a domestic violence offense to possess a firearm.

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car?

The answer depends on where you live, and whether you want to carry your gun in a concealed manner or openly, loaded or unloaded. To carry a concealed gun, most states require a concealed carry permit. However, even with a permit, additional laws usually apply to guns in vehicles.