CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

Understanding Shooting Charges in California: Definitions, Punishments and Defenses

When it comes to the penal code of California, it’s not always straightforward to comprehend. It seems as if legislators picked convoluted language for the specific purpose of confusing people. However, although it can be challenging to understand, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, in this post, we will analyze the penalties associated with shooting at an inhabited dwelling or occupied car by considering definitions, punishments and possible defenses. By the time we’re done, we’re confident that you’ll agree the letter of the law isn’t so incomprehensible when you partition it into easy-to-digest sections.

Definitions for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

To be convicted of this crime, an individual must have “willfully and maliciously” fired a firearm at an inhabited house, an inhabited car, an inhabited camper, or an occupied building, aircraft or motor vehicle. Willfully refers to the act being intentional, and maliciously refers to intentionally doing something wrong or acting with the intention to defraud or injure others.

Punishments for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

For example, a person fires a warning shot at the property of an individual responsible for assaulting their family member or shoots at their own car while it’s being stolen to stop the thief. Under California law, shooting at an inhabited dwelling or occupied car is a felony, and if convicted, individuals could face six months to one year in county jail or three, five or seven years in state prison. In addition to possible prison time, convicted individuals could be fined up to $10,000.

Defense for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

If you’re charged with this offense, your attorney could help you avoid punishment. For instance, if you acted in self-defense or out of legal defense of an accident, or if the accusation was false, your attorney could fight the charge. Although the associated penalties for this crime are severe, your lawyer could help you avoid the more severe legal consequences of a conviction.

We’ve Got Your Back

See? California’s penal code isn’t as daunting as it seems. When you simplify the convoluted and uncomfortable letter of the law into manageable individual pieces, you’ll understand what the law means and be better equipped to build a defense. If you’re dealing with any legal issues or anticipate potential litigation, contact us promptly, and we’ll support you.

Table of Contents

1. Definitions for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

2. Punishments for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

3. Defenses for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

1. Definitions for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

To comprehend the charges associated with shooting at an inhabited dwelling or occupied car, it’s vital to understand the following definitions:

Willfully – Intentional act
Maliciously – Intentionally doing something wrong or acting with the intention to defraud or harm someone else

2. Punishments for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

The following are examples of shooting at an inhabited dwelling or occupied car: firing a warning shot at the property of whoever was responsible for assaulting their family member or shooting at their car while it’s being stolen with the purpose of stopping the thief.

In California, shooting at an inhabited dwelling or occupied car is a felony punishable by six months – one year in county jail or three, five, or seven years in state prison. Convicted individuals can also be fined an amount of up to $10,000.

3. Defenses for Shooting at an Inhabited Dwelling or Occupied Car

Your lawyer could represent you in claiming that you acted in self-defense. Furthermore, they could defend you by citing that you acted accidentally or that the charge is false. Although the penalties for this crime are harsh, your lawyer could help you avoid severe legal consequences associated with a conviction.

Conclusion

California’s penal code can be challenging to understand, but it does not have to be. By focusing on the relevant definitions of charges, possible punishments, and defenses, one can develop a better understanding of the letter of the law. If you’re currently facing legal troubles or anticipate future litigation, we can help. Contact us today, and we’ll provide the legal support you require.

Table of Contents