Should You Rat On Yourself?

Published on April 23, 2020
Duration: 4:39

This video explains the 'duty to inform' requirement for concealed carry permit holders when interacting with law enforcement. It clarifies that while California state law may not mandate informing officers, local issuing agencies (like county sheriffs) can impose this requirement as a condition of the permit. The video provides examples from Fresno and Orange Counties, detailing their specific notification protocols and advises on how to calmly inform an officer if required.

Quick Summary

In California, there's no statewide 'duty to inform' law for CCW holders. However, your local issuing agency (sheriff or police) can require you to notify them of your concealed firearm as a permit condition. Always check your local agency's specific policies and procedure manuals.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Duty to Inform
  2. 00:07What is the Duty to Inform?
  3. 00:13Legal Obligation to Notify
  4. 00:29Pulled Over by Police
  5. 00:46State vs. Local Requirements
  6. 00:56California State Law
  7. 01:01Local Discretion in CCW
  8. 01:18Local Agency Requirements
  9. 01:33Not County Law, but Agency Policy
  10. 01:53Finding Duty to Inform Information
  11. 02:10Example: Fresno County
  12. 02:46Example: Orange County
  13. 03:08State vs. Local Recap
  14. 03:16What to Do If You Have a Duty to Inform
  15. 03:28Calm Interaction with Officers
  16. 03:44Officer Comfort and Safety
  17. 03:53Conclusion and Community Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tell a police officer I have a concealed weapon in California?

California state law does not have an outright 'duty to inform.' However, your local county sheriff or police department that issued your CCW permit may require you to inform them as a condition of your permit. Always check your local issuing agency's policies.

Where can I find out if my county has a duty to inform requirement?

You can typically find this information in the procedure manuals or application documents provided by the specific law enforcement agency that issued your CCW permit. Some agencies, like Orange County, also post this information on their official websites.

What should I do if I have a duty to inform and am pulled over?

Remain calm, keep your hands visible on the steering wheel. Verbally inform the officer that you have a concealed carry permit and are carrying a firearm. Offer to show your license and ask how they would like you to proceed.

Is the duty to inform a state law or a local law?

In California, the 'duty to inform' is generally not a state law but a requirement imposed by local law enforcement agencies as a condition for issuing a concealed carry permit. It's tied to the agency's policies, not a statewide mandate.

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