Los Angeles Weapons Charges Attorney

A weapons charge in California can have serious consequences, including years in state prison and a permanent mark on your record. Whether you’ve been accused of carrying a concealed firearm, brandishing a weapon, or violating federal gun laws, the outcome of your case will shape your future for years to come.

At Alimouri & Alimouri, we defend people across Los Angeles and Los Angeles County against all categories of gun crimes, from misdemeanor citations to serious felony prosecutions in state and federal court. Our Los Angeles weapons charges attorneys prepare defense strategies with the same dedication we’d provide for our own family members. This has helped keep our many clients out of jail and their records clean.

Contact us today for your fully confidential consultation and discover how a reputable criminal defense lawyer can make a difference.

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Damon Alimouri

Attorney & Founder

Why Choose Alimouri & Alimouri if You Are Facing Weapons Charges?

Attorney Damon Alimouri has spent his career defending Southern Californians against the most serious accusations the state can bring. Judges, prosecutors, and opposing counsel across the region know him as a formidable, aggressive advocate who prepares every case with precision and fights for the best results. That kind of status and track record can make all the difference when your future hangs in the balance.

Our firm devotes extensive resources to each case we handle, resources that many defense practices simply don’t have. For example, we employ our own team of private investigators and field experts who can work quickly to preserve and review evidence before the state can control the entire narrative. Further, in the event of a conviction, co-counsel Kate Alimouri focuses on the entire appeals and rigorous post-conviction process.

We understand what’s truly at stake when someone faces weapons charges: their personal freedom, their employment, their housing, and their standing in the community. That’s why we treat every case with care and make sure our staff is available 24/7, because we know your questions can’t always wait until the next day.

Get in touch with us today for your fully confidential case review and learn what we can do to defend you against weapons charges.

What Can Be Considered Weapons in California?

The definition of the term “weapon” is far broader than most people expect. Firearms of every type fall under this umbrella, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and assault weapons. California weapon laws also cover knives, stun guns, tasers, and certain “generally prohibited weapons,” such as brass knuckles. Even everyday objects like baseball bats and screwdrivers can become the basis for an assault with a deadly weapon charge if prosecutors argue you used or displayed the item in a threatening manner.

Because the definition of a “weapon” can vary depending on context and intent, you need an experienced defense lawyer like Mr. Alimouri to examine exactly how the state has classified the item in your case and whether that classification holds up.

What Are the Types of Weapons Charges in California?

California prosecutors pursue weapons charges under several distinct statutes, each with unique elements and penalties. Common state-level weapons charges include the following:

Carrying a Concealed Firearm – Carrying a concealed handgun on your person or in a vehicle without a valid permit (California Penal Code § 25400)
Prohibited Person in Possession – Possessing a firearm with certain felony convictions, violent misdemeanors, or restraining orders on your record (CPC § 29800)
Possession of an Assault Weapon – Possessing firearms classified as assault weapons under California’s specific statutory definitions (CPC § 30605)
Brandishing a Firearm – Drawing or exhibiting a firearm in a “rude, angry, or threatening” manner, even without firing it (CPC § 417)
Unsafe or Negligent Discharge – Firing a weapon in a grossly negligent manner that could result in injury or death (CPC § 246.3)

Other common charges include the following:

Unlawful possession of ammunition
Illegal weapon modification
Violations tied to California gun carry laws for open or concealed carry

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5-STAR REVIEWS FROM SATISFIED CLIENTS

“Kate and Damon are a dream team! They helped navigate a felony case for my brother and they got it completely dismissed. … They are super honest and transparent but more importantly, on your side no matter what.”

— J.G.

“In an industry where trust is everything, Damon has the kind of character that immediately inspires confidence. Based on my experience getting to know him, he is exactly the type of attorney I would feel comfortable hiring and recommending to others.”

— C.G.

“Damon, I cannot begin to express how deeply grateful I am for everything you have done for my son and our family. Having his attempted murder charge dismissed was nothing short of life-changing, and I know that it would not have been possible without your dedication, expertise, and relentless pursuit of justice.”

— M.H.

“Damon is the real deal!! He is very knowledgeable, reliable, professional and has years of experience in various area of laws. He is passionate and energetic, and that’s ESSENTIAL when wanting success in the courtroom! … I had faced charges against me, and Damon significantly reduced my charges against me. Today as a client, I am walking more freely and happily as a person.”

— James

What Are Common Types of Federal Weapons Charges?

Certain weapons-related conduct is considered unlawful under federal statutes, and federal cases typically carry harsher mandatory minimums than state ones. Common federal weapons crimes include the following:

Possession by a Prohibited Person – Possessing firearms or ammunition as a felon, domestic violence offender, or other disqualified individual (18 USC § 922(g))
Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime – Possessing a firearm while committing a separate federal drug or violent offense (18 USC § 924(c))
National Firearms Act (NFA) Violations – Possessing an unregistered machine gun, short-barreled rifle, silencer, or other regulated device (26 USC § 5861)
Illegal Firearm Trafficking and Straw Purchasing – Buying or selling firearms on behalf of someone barred from owning one (18 USC § 932, 18 USC § 933)
Making False Statements – Providing false information during a firearm purchase or background check (18 USC § 922(a)(6))
Possession of a Weapon with an Altered Serial Number – Possessing a firearm with a serial number that’s been removed, altered, or obliterated (18 USC § 922(k))

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What Must the State Prove to Secure a Conviction for Weapons Charges?

Prosecutors have the burden of proof in any criminal case, and weapons-related cases are no exception. Depending on the specific charge, the state must generally prove the following beyond a reasonable doubt:

You knowingly possessed, carried, or used the weapon in question.
The item meets the legal definition of a weapon under the relevant statute.
No lawful exception or permit applied to your conduct.

For charges such as brandishing or assault with a deadly weapon, prosecutors also have to show intent or that the item was used in a threatening way, not just that you had it. If the state can’t prove every part of the charge, you can’t be convicted. A strong defense often means finding which parts the prosecution can’t prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

What Are Common Weapons Charges Defense Strategies?

Every weapons case demands a unique defense strategy based on the facts, evidence, and charges involved. That said, several defenses are frequently useful in these cases, including those based on the following:

Unlawful search and seizure (Fourth Amendment violations)
Lack of knowledge or constructive possession
Self-defense or defense of others
Lawful ownership and permit status
Constitutional and classification challenges

At Alimouri & Alimouri, our lawyers take a tenacious, results-driven approach to every weapons case we handle. We build our defense by closely reviewing police reports, evidence, and witness statements to find any weaknesses that could help your case.

Where Are Weapons Cases Heard in Los Angeles and Southern California?

The court where your case gets filed will depend on the charge, the county, and whether the government pursues the matter at the state or federal level.

State weapons cases originating in downtown Los Angeles are typically heard at Los Angeles County Superior Court, though in some situations, cases may get transferred to the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. If your case originates outside downtown Los Angeles, it is heard in the corresponding regional facilities across the county’s judicial districts. For example, if the arrest happened in Norwalk, the case will be tried in the Norwalk Superior Court, an incident originating in Van Nuys goes to the Van Nuys Superior Court, Long Beach matters are heard at Long Beach Superior Court, and so on. If you appeal a state conviction, that appeal will go through the Supreme Court of California.

Federal weapons charges in this region are generally heard at the First Street United States Courthouse or the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles. Federal appeals go to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit.

Mr. Alimouri has tried cases in each of these courthouses, so he understands how those judges and prosecutors approach weapons prosecutions. This insight has helped thousands of clients get their charges reduced or fully dismissed.

What Are the Penalties for Weapons Charge Convictions in California?

Penalties for weapons charges in California depend on the details of your case, your past record, and whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Many weapons offenses are called “wobblers,” which means they can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies based on the situation.

If you are convicted of a misdemeanor at the state level, you could face up to a year in county jail and substantial fines. Felony convictions can mean several years in state prison, losing your right to own firearms, and lasting problems with jobs and housing.

At the state level, misdemeanors are punishable by up to a year in county jail and substantial fines. Felony convictions can result in sentences that include several years in state prison, a permanent loss of firearm rights, and long-term consequences for employment and housing.

Federal convictions often come with mandatory minimum sentences, so there is little chance for leniency. Because so much is at risk in any weapons case, you need an experienced weapons charges lawyer in Los Angeles like Mr. Alimouri to help you from the very beginning.

What Should You Do After Being Arrested on Weapons Charges in Los Angeles?

Exercise your right to remain silent.
Do not answer any questions beyond identifying yourself.
Ask for a weapons charges attorney in Los Angeles clearly and as soon as possible.
Do not consent to additional searches.
Do not try to explain your side of the story to the police.
Wait until your lawyer arrives before discussing your case further.
Avoid discussing your case with anyone besides your lawyer.

Contact a Weapons Charges Defense Attorney Today

At Alimouri & Alimouri, we built our practice on preparation, communication, and a genuine commitment to every client we represent. Here’s how one person summed up their experience with Mr. Alimouri:

“One of the best attorneys in Southern California hands down. Passionate, professional, and not afraid of a fight if required. He’s experienced, knows what he is doing, and communicates the information a client needs to know in order to make the best decision possible. If you are looking for a criminal attorney, you won’t be disappointed.”

– James

If you are facing weapons charges, there is too much at risk to leave your case to chance or to a lawyer who sees you as just another case. Our Los Angeles weapons charges lawyers treat every case personally and work hard to give you the best defense at every step. Contact us today for your fully confidential consultation and case review.

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Weapons Charges Attorney in Los Angeles, CA