What Are Ballistic Knives
Unfortunately, knives are a common tool used by individuals to attack and injure others. One of such knives is a ballistic knife. These knives have spring mechanisms that allow for the blade to be quickly ejected, making them very dangerous. In California, ballistic knives are not legal. More specifically, California Penal Code 21110 PC has delineated that having such a knife is illegal in California, with possibly severe consequences.
The ballistic knife is a weapon due to its spring-like capabilities, which is why the possession, sale, making, or importing of said knife has been made a misdemeanor or felony crime. If an individual believes they have been wrongly accused of having (or any other actions as explained by the penal code) a ballistic knife, a possible defense is to prove that the knife in question is actually not a ballistic knife. The criminal code has a specific definition regarding such knives, and if the knife the accused possessed just happened to look like the ballistic kind, it is vital to prove it is not the same.
However, if a person did have a ballistic knife, the consequences can be quite severe. If found guilty, the defendant can face more than just a fine. In fact, possessing a ballistic knife can lead to a misdemeanor or a felony conviction, depending on the circumstances. In the case of a misdemeanor, the defendant can pay a fine and/or go to a county jail for up to a year. However, those facing a felony could potentially face serving up to three years in jail as well as paying a fine of up to $10,000. As such, if you have been arrested or charged with the possession/selling/etc. of a ballistic knife, it is very important that you seek the counsel of an experienced criminal attorney.
