Close

Firearms and Weapons

Bay Area Firearm and Weapon Lawyer

California law makes it illegal to carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle or on your person unless you have a permit. Possessing other weapons is also illegal, including billy clubs, sword canes, poisoned darts, throwing stars and many other exotic instruments. Brandishing a weapon can result in misdemeanor or felon charges. However, exercising valid self-defense is a complete defense, making it non-criminal to use or display a weapon in defense of yourself or another.

Until 2012 it was not a crime in California to carry an unloaded gun in public, although you could not do so at a school or in a government building. However, Penal Code Section 26350 now makes it illegal to carry any handgun in public, or in a vehicle – unless you have a concealed carry permit.

The law applies to any pistol, revolver or other firearm that is easily concealed, including shotguns or rifles with a barrel less than 16 inches long. It does not apply to most rifles, shotguns and other long arms. Under Penal Code 29800, anyone who has been convicted of a felony, certain misdemeanors, or who are drug addicts, are prohibited from possessing any firearm.

Weapon Confiscation Defense

Michael Coffino represents civil litigants seeking to have firearms returned to them following involuntary mental health hospitalization or a domestic violence arrest. He has a successful record of avoiding firearms confiscations by the police pursuant to Penal Code sections 18250 and Welfare and Institutions Code 8102. Some of these cases can be resolved favorably out of court with a settlement that includes return of the weapons. Others require a court hearing in front of a judge where the government has the burden of showing that return of the firearms would likely endanger the public, or a family member. The losing party may be required to pay the other side’s court costs and attorney fees.


Client Reviews
★★★★★
Mr.Coffino saved me! He and his investigator got evidence that I didn't commit the crime I was accused of: Felony Assault With a Deadly Weapon. Charge was dismissed. Mr. Coffino is highly intelligent, professional, and actually cared about me. This is the attorney that the Marin IJ stated "the best attorney money can't buy" when he worked for the Public Defender's Office. And he really cares about his clients!!! JR
★★★★★
Mike is an amazing, strong, and articulate lawyer that will not only point out the facts that are relevant to one's case but, will make sure that he has addressed every concern that you have to the court/judge. I was also very impressed with Mike's closing arguments. They were strong, very well referenced, and specific to the my case. For those that are wondering if Mike is the man for the job, HE is definitely the MAN you want representing you in your case. EM
★★★★★
I had some experience with lawyers in the past but not like Mike. He was a bulldog in the courtroom. His closing arguments were off the charts and we won. Thanks Mike!!! CH
★★★★★
Best attorney I could of asked for. I never had any doubts about him, I knew from the beginning he was going to do his best to help me and that was exactly what he did. Very informative about what was going on, he would lay out a plan and do exactly as he would say. Very good attorney. Strongly recommended. AM
★★★★★
I’ll never be able to explain everything you did for me. He did so much in my domestic violence case. When I called, he answered every time. He was there for me. He saved my life. What more can I say? I will never be able to repay him. FM
Contact Us