Los Angeles Possession of Ammunition Defense: Understanding California PC § 30305 Charges

Facing possession of ammunition by a convicted felon charges in Los Angeles can lead to serious consequences, including jail or prison time, fines, and a criminal record that impacts your employment and personal life. Under California Penal Code § 30305, individuals with certain felony convictions are prohibited from owning, possessing, or controlling ammunition or reloaded ammunition. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our experienced Los Angeles possession of ammunition defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. Below, we explain possession of ammunition charges, what the prosecution must prove, common defenses, exceptions to the law, potential penalties, and critical information to help you navigate these charges.

What is Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon in California?

California Penal Code § 30305(a) prohibits individuals convicted of felonies, or certain misdemeanors, from owning, possessing, or having custody or control of ammunition or reloaded ammunition. This law is part of California’s strict firearm and ammunition regulations aimed at enhancing public safety. Key aspects include:

1. Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon (PC § 30305(a))

  • Description: Involves knowingly owning, possessing, or controlling ammunition after being convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor listed in PC § 12001.6 (e.g., violent crimes like assault or robbery).
  • Key Factors: Typically a felony, though it can be a misdemeanor in some cases based on the underlying conviction.

2. Related Charges

  • Description: Possession of ammunition charges may be filed alongside related offenses, such as:
    • PC § 29800 (felon in possession of a firearm).
    • PC § 25850 (carrying a loaded firearm).
    • PC § 246 (grossly negligent discharge of a firearm).
  • Key Factors: Multiple charges can increase penalties and complicate defense strategies.

3. Exceptions to PC § 30305

  • Restored Rights: If your firearm and ammunition rights were restored through a pardon or certificate of rehabilitation (PC § 4852.01), you may be exempt.
  • Expunged Convictions: In some cases, an expunged felony conviction (PC § 1203.4) may allow possession, though this is limited and requires legal clarification.
  • Lawful Employment: Certain professionals, like peace officers, may be exempt if ammunition possession is required for their job, though this is rare for felons.
  • Key Factors: Exceptions are narrowly applied and require clear documentation or legal authorization.

What the District Attorney Must Prove in a Possession of Ammunition Case

To secure a conviction under PC § 30305, the Los Angeles DA must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  1. Prior Conviction: You were previously convicted of a felony or a specified misdemeanor (e.g., a violent offense under PC § 12001.6).
  2. Possession or Control: You knowingly owned, possessed, or had custody or control of ammunition or reloaded ammunition.
  3. No Exception: You did not qualify for an exemption, such as restored rights or lawful employment.
  4. Knowledge: You knew or reasonably should have known you were possessing ammunition.

The DA relies on evidence such as prior conviction records, police reports, witness testimony, or physical evidence of the ammunition. An experienced Los Angeles possession of ammunition attorney at Rogers | Beltran LLP can challenge this evidence to weaken the prosecution’s case.

Common Defenses to Possession of Ammunition Charges in Los Angeles

A skilled defense attorney can employ several strategies to fight PC § 30305 charges. Common defenses include:

  1. Qualifying Exception:
    • If your rights were restored through a pardon, certificate of rehabilitation, or expungement, the charge may not apply.
    • Example: You received a governor’s pardon restoring your ammunition rights.
  2. No Knowledge:
    • If you were unaware the ammunition was in your possession, you may not be guilty.
    • Example: Someone else placed ammunition in your vehicle or home without your knowledge.
  3. Illegal Search and Seizure:
    • If police obtained evidence through an unlawful search, it may be suppressed.
    • Example: The ammunition was found during an illegal vehicle or home search.
  4. False Allegations:
    • Charges may stem from misunderstandings or false claims by others.
    • Example: A roommate falsely reported you possessing ammunition to retaliate.
  5. No Prior Qualifying Conviction:
    • If your prior conviction was not a felony or a specified misdemeanor, the charge may be invalid.
    • Example: Your conviction was for a non-violent felony not listed in PC § 12001.6.
  6. Not Ammunition:
    • If the item was not legally defined as ammunition (e.g., inert or non-functional rounds), the charge may not apply.
    • Example: The items were empty casings or training rounds.

At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our Los Angeles possession of ammunition defense lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case to identify the most effective defense strategy.

Potential Penalties for Possession of Ammunition Convictions in California

Penalties for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon under PC § 30305 depend on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony and your criminal history. As of July 2025, potential consequences include:

Misdemeanor Possession of Ammunition (PC § 30305)

  • Jail Time: Up to 1 year in county jail.
  • Fines: Up to $1,000 (plus court fees).
  • Probation: Up to 3 years of informal probation, often with conditions like community service or restrictions on possessing ammunition or firearms.
  • Confiscation: The ammunition may be seized and destroyed.

Felony Possession of Ammunition (PC § 30305)

  • Prison Time: 16 months, 2, or 3 years in state prison.
  • Fines: Up to $10,000 (plus fees).
  • Probation: Formal probation with conditions like restitution or counseling.
  • Felony Record: Impacts employment, housing, and professional licenses.
  • Firearm Rights: Reinforces permanent loss of firearm and ammunition possession rights (PC § 29800).

Additional Consequences

  • Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation or visa issues.
  • Employment Challenges: A criminal record can limit job opportunities, especially in roles requiring background checks or security clearances.
  • Professional License Impacts: Affects licenses for professions like security, law, or healthcare.
  • Civil Lawsuits: If possession caused harm or fear, victims may sue for damages.

What Else Should You Know About Possession of Ammunition Charges in Los Angeles?

Possession of ammunition charges under PC § 30305 are strictly enforced in California, particularly in Los Angeles’s urban environment with heightened firearm and ammunition regulations. Here are additional details to understand:

The Possession of Ammunition Charge Process in Los Angeles

  1. Investigation: Police investigate based on traffic stops, home searches, or public complaints, often using bodycam footage, database checks for prior convictions, or recovered ammunition.
  2. Arrest and Booking: You may be booked and released on bail or your own recognizance.
  3. Court Proceedings: Your case involves arraignment, pre-trial motions, and possibly a trial. Plea deals may reduce charges to lesser offenses like disturbing the peace (PC § 415).
  4. Diversion Programs: For misdemeanor charges, judicial diversion (PC § 1001.95) may be available for first-time offenders, dismissing charges upon completion of conditions.

Exceptions to PC § 30305

  • Restored Rights: A governor’s pardon or certificate of rehabilitation (PC § 4852.01) may restore your right to possess ammunition, though this is rare and requires legal documentation.
  • Expunged Convictions: An expunged felony (PC § 1203.4) may sometimes allow possession, but courts interpret this narrowly, and legal advice is critical.
  • Lawful Employment: Certain roles (e.g., peace officers) may permit possession, but felons are typically ineligible for such exemptions.
  • Burden of Proof: You must demonstrate eligibility for an exception, often requiring legal representation to present evidence effectively.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Possession of Ammunition Attorney

Navigating PC § 30305 charges requires legal expertise due to complex evidence and strict firearm-related laws. An experienced attorney at Rogers | Beltran LLP can:

  • Challenge the prosecution’s evidence, such as proof of knowledge or prior conviction status, to seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
  • Argue for lawful exceptions based on restored rights or employment.
  • Represent you in court to protect your rights and future.
  • Mitigate impacts on your employment, professional licenses, or immigration status.

How to Protect Yourself After a Possession of Ammunition Charge

  1. Do Not Discuss the Case: Avoid talking about the incident with anyone except your attorney, as statements can be used against you.
  2. Document Evidence: Keep records of legal documents, witnesses, or circumstances supporting your defense (e.g., proof of restored rights or lack of knowledge).
  3. Hire an Attorney Immediately: Early intervention can lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.
  4. Comply with Court Orders: Follow bail conditions to avoid additional charges.

Los Angeles-Specific Considerations

  • Urban Context: Los Angeles’s high-crime areas (e.g., South LA, Downtown) and strict ammunition laws lead to aggressive enforcement of PC § 30305, often during routine stops or searches.
  • Local Courts: Cases are typically heard in courts like the Los Angeles Superior Court or Compton Courthouse, each with unique procedures.
  • Police Enforcement: LAPD uses advanced tools like bodycams and database checks to verify prior convictions, which can be challenged for errors or unlawful searches.

Contact Rogers | Beltran LLP for Expert Possession of Ammunition Defense in Los Angeles

A California possession of ammunition charge under PC § 30305 doesn’t have to define your future. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our dedicated Los Angeles possession of ammunition attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. We have the expertise to build a strong defense, leveraging exceptions and challenging evidence to minimize the impact on your life.

Call us today at (213) 900-9004 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and safeguard your future.