The past years have witnessed a distressing increase in gun violence, particularly in schools. In 2022, a staggering 51 school shootings resulting in injury or death were reported in the U.S. Given this, the state of California has been proactive in enforcing stringent rules to ensure the safety of its school zones. Anyone found possessing a weapon within these zones could face severe legal consequences.
Keep reading to learn about weapons laws at schools. If you are facing weapons charges, contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
California’s Protective Measures Against Gun Violence in Schools
The well-known California’s Gun Free Zone Act explicitly prohibits the possession of loaded or unloaded firearms in places recognizable or reasonably identifiable as school zones. The intent isn’t limited only to possession; even an act of discharging or an attempt thereof, with blatant neglect for safety, is forbidden.
The term “firearm” here is used in its broadest sense to include any mechanism designed to release a projectile using combustion. A “school zone” encompasses the premises of any public or private institution offering instruction from kindergarten to grade 12, as well as an area extending 1,000 feet from its boundaries.
Facing the Consequences
Breaching the guidelines set by this act can lead to severe repercussions. If one is found guilty under circumstances such as having a prior felony conviction, belonging to a group denied firearm possession rights, or having a concealable weapon, they might be facing two to five years of incarceration. The penalties differ based on individual circumstances, and in some cases, one might be charged with a misdemeanor. However, firing a weapon in a school zone warrants felony charges with potential jail time ranging from three to seven years.
In tandem with this, another law criminalizes the act of possessing certain weapons, excluding some law enforcement and military personnel, within school premises. This provision covers a range of weapons such as dirks, daggers, long-bladed knives, stun guns, and even BB guns. Termed as a ‘wobbler’, this offense could be classified either as a misdemeanor or a felony. Convictions under this section could either result in up to a year in county jail for misdemeanors or a jail sentence extending to three years for felonies. However, it’s worth noting that some convicts might be granted probation as an alternative to jail time.
Seeking Legal Support
When confronted with charges this grave, it’s paramount to enlist proficient legal aid. The right defense attorney could be instrumental in either mitigating the penalties or achieving a case dismissal.
At Chambers Law Firm, our expert team is adept at navigating the intricate landscape of California’s weapon laws, especially pertaining to school grounds. If you or a loved one find yourself in such a predicament, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 714-760-4088. Your freedom and future might hinge on the legal decisions you make today. Secure them by ensuring you have the best representation possible.
