New and Noteworthy 2016 Laws in California – Reviewed by San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer

Posted by Ashby Sorensen
1
Feb 19, 2016
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The New Year brings new changes to California’s laws and those who reside in the state should be aware of the changes and understand their implications. As most are aware, a lack of knowledge of the law is no defense to breaking them, so the onus is on individuals to remain up to date and knowledgeable of changes and implementation of new laws. Avoid being caught off guard or have to admit to ignorance when pulled over or confronted by law enforcement with laws you are allegedly breaking.

California Gun Laws

New laws were submitted for 2016 as it pertains to gun ownership and their regulation in the state of California. Specifically, Senate Bill 707 amended parts of the Gun-Free School Zone Act of 1995. The previous laws stated that only persons with a valid concealed carry permit were exempt from firearm bans on public or private school campuses. The new Senate Bill 707 amended the law, eliminating this exemption except for certain retired peace officers. If an individual violates the act by bringing a gun onto a school campus, they may be facing a punishment of two, three or five years in state prison.

In addition to the aforementioned SB 707, Governor Brown also signed into law Assembly Bill 1014. This bill pertains to restraining orders in connection with gun violence, allowing firearms to be seized by law enforcement when individuals are deemed to pose a  threat or cause harm to themselves or others. The potential consequences of a family member or law enforcement officer who requests that the court issue a Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO) against another individual, could result in that person being banned from possessing a firearm for two days or one year, depending on the subjective circumstances in that case.

Drug and Drinking Laws
New laws addressing drugs and drinking issues were passed with the start of 2016. Senate Bill 212 adds additional penalties for those convicted of manufacturing methamphetamine and the marijuana concentrate known as butane hash oil. If methamphetamine was found to have been made within 200 feet of an occupied residence or structure or when butane hash oil is made within 300 feet of an occupied residence or structure, judges can now impose longer prison sentences.
 
Contact a San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer to Learn More About New Laws Passed in 2016
Ignorance is not a defense to new laws California has placed into the system. Don’t find yourself caught in a situation you were unaware was crime. San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Ashby Sorensen will put his current knowledge of California laws and years of experience to work for your case and your rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation with San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Ashby C. Sorensen and assess the details of your matter.
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