Santa Ana Criminal Defense Lawyer

Weapon Offenses

Many people mistakenly believe that a weapons offense involves only the use of guns or knives. This is not the case as the definition of "deadly weapon" in our state is very broad and could include a car, box cutter or even a fist. Weapon offenses run the gamut of illegal possession, brandishing, discharging or selling of a firearm to using a weapon during the commission of a crime such as assault, battery, domestic violence, robbery and certain sex crimes.

Typically, the use of a weapon will raise the stakes for the person accused of such a crime and increase the punishments if they are found guilty. A weapons crime is a felony in our state, however, possession can be charged as a misdemeanor in certain instances.

A Santa Ana criminal defense attorney from our firm can go over the mitigating circumstances with you in detail. They generally are based on prior criminal history, whether the weapon was concealed or not, what type of weapon it was and what action was being taken with it. Mr. Schaffer can thoroughly review all of the details of you case to determine the best defense possible.

Penalties for Weapon Crimes

Our state aggressively prosecutes weapon crimes which can lead to lengthy prison sentences, steep fines and a permanent criminal record. Mr. Schaffer spent 18 years as an Orange County Deputy District Attorney and personally trained other deputy DAs on correct trial procedure, evidence gathering and cross examination techniques. Our firm understands, therefore, how cases are prosecuted and what effective defenses are available. Our extensive knowledge and insight into the justice system can be of great benefit to you in efforts to fight for your charges to be reduced or dismissed.

Contact a Santa Ana criminal defense lawyer for skilled help in defending yourself against a weapon offense and resulting penalties.