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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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:
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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.
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Homemade Guns: Are They Legal? Must They Be Registered?
Individuals in this country have been making their own guns for centuries. The practice is deeply rooted in our constitutional history and tradition.
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Almost everywhere, it's legal to make and own a 3D printed gun. For criminals intent on quickly procuring a reliable firearm, however, making one in the garage may not be the source of choice.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Can a past misdemeanor that’s technically not “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.