Being arrested for possession of a silencer under Penal Code § 33410 can feel overwhelming and life-altering. In California, silencers are heavily restricted, and prosecutors often pursue these cases aggressively. A conviction can mean years in prison, hefty fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
At Power Trial Lawyers, we understand that good people can find themselves facing serious firearm allegations. Our team defends clients across Los Angeles and Orange County against firearms charges, appeals, and related criminal defense matters. If you or a loved one has been charged under PC 33410, you need an experienced firearms lawyer in Los Angeles or criminal defense attorney in Orange County who knows how to fight back.
Under Penal Code § 33410, it is a crime to possess, transport, sell, or give away a silencer (also known as a suppressor). A silencer is defined as any device designed to muffle or suppress the sound of a firearm.
Unlike some other states, California law imposes an outright ban on silencers for civilians. This makes it a strict liability offense—meaning the prosecution doesn’t have to prove you intended to use the silencer illegally, only that you possessed it.
Violating PC 33410 is considered a wobbler offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the facts of the case and the defendant’s history.
Because silencers are also regulated under federal law (National Firearms Act), you may face federal charges in addition to California state charges.
An experienced possession of a silencer defense attorney can raise strong defenses to protect your rights. At Power Trial Lawyers, we explore every avenue to challenge the prosecution’s case.
If police found the silencer during an unlawful stop, search, or seizure, evidence may be suppressed under the Fourth Amendment, often resulting in dismissal.
If you did not know that the device was a silencer, or that it was in your possession (for example, borrowed property or items left in your vehicle), this may be a valid defense.
Sometimes law enforcement mistakes other devices (such as barrel extensions or muzzle brakes) for silencers. Expert testimony can show that the item does not meet the statutory definition.
If your rights were violated during questioning, evidence gathering, or arrest, your defense lawyer can move to exclude key evidence.
If the prosecution cannot establish a clean chain of custody for the alleged silencer, the case may be weakened.
Firearms cases in California are high-stakes and often involve aggressive prosecutors, strict sentencing laws, and overlapping federal issues.
At Power Trial Lawyers, we stand out because:
Many clients charged with PC 33410 also face related firearm allegations, including:
Our firm defends all firearms-related charges, ensuring that every aspect of your case is handled by skilled defense counsel.
No. PC 33410 can be filed as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on circumstances. However, prosecutors often lean toward felony charges, especially if other firearm offenses are involved.
No. Even if federally registered under the National Firearms Act, silencers are still banned in California under Penal Code § 33410.
Yes. A conviction under PC 33410 will likely result in permanent firearm prohibitions under both state and federal law.
Yes. With the right defense, cases can be reduced or dismissed—especially if the evidence was obtained illegally or the prosecution cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you or someone you love is facing Penal Code § 33410 charges for possession of a silencer in Los Angeles or Orange County, do not wait. These cases move quickly, and early intervention by a skilled attorney can make all the difference.
At Power Trial Lawyers, we fight tirelessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. Call us today at 888-808-2179 for a confidential consultation.