Understanding California’s New Laws on Ghost Guns

Ghost guns- firearms without serial numbers that can be assembled privately, have become a major focus of California’s gun control efforts. As a trusted Orange County criminal defense lawyer, the Law Offices of William Bruzzo is here to explain California’s new regulations on ghost guns and what these laws mean for residents navigating the legal landscape.

What Are Ghost Guns?

Ghost guns are firearms assembled from parts or kits often lacking serial numbers, making them untraceable by law enforcement. This category includes homemade guns, 3D-printed firearms made from plastic or metal, and “80% lower” receivers, partially completed firearm components that require finishing to become functional guns. 

Unlike commercially sold firearms, ghost guns bypass background checks and do not undergo standard registration processes. This absence of serial numbers creates challenges for law enforcement in tracing these weapons, which has led California to enact strict laws regulating their manufacture, possession, and sale to curb illegal use and enhance public safety.

California’s Legal Framework and Key Laws Regulating Ghost Guns

California has enacted several laws to regulate ghost guns strictly:

• Serial Number Requirement (Penal Code 29180): Requires serial numbers on all firearms, including ghost guns.
• Assembly Bill 879 (2022): Mandates background checks for precursor parts sales.
• Assembly Bill 1621 (2022): Bans possession of unserialized firearms and parts.
• Assembly Bill 1263 (2025): Criminalizes facilitating unlawful firearm manufacturing.

These comprehensive regulations represent California’s aggressive approach to eliminating untraceable firearms, with violations carrying significant penalties including jail time, fines, and permanent firearm ownership bans.

Compliance Deadlines and Registration Requirements for Ghost Guns in California

California law requires owners to register ghost guns made before these laws’ enactment by a specified deadline. Failure to register or serialize ghost guns could lead to criminal charges, including misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties such as jail time and fines. 

As experienced Orange County criminal defense attorneys, we advise clients to take deadlines seriously to avoid legal jeopardy.

Enforcement Actions, Penalties, and Legal Consequences for Ghost Gun Violations

Law enforcement agencies in California have increased focus on ghost gun-related offenses due to their rising use in violent crimes. Unauthorized possession, manufacture, or sale of ghost guns can lead to:

• Misdemeanor or felony charges (wobblers)
• Jail time or state prison sentences
• Heavy fines and firearm prohibitions

The Law Offices of William Bruzzo has decades of experience defending clients against such serious charges in Orange County courts.

How the Law Offices of William Bruzzo Can Help

Navigating ghost gun laws in Orange County can be complicated. The Law Offices of William Bruzzo offers experienced defense against ghost gun charges and related firearms offenses. We help clients understand their rights, assess legal options, and build strong defense strategies tailored to each case.

Contact Trusted Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyers for Ghost Gun Legal Defense

If you face accusations related to ghost guns or other firearms charges in Orange County, don’t delay. Call the Law Offices of William Bruzzo at (714) 547-4636 or contact us online for a free consultation. Protect your rights with knowledgeable Orange County criminal defense lawyers dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes.