Why Gun Owners Should Have Firearm Insurance: Legal Protection When You Need It Most

Owning a firearm is both a right and a responsibility. While many gun owners prioritize safety and compliance with the law, legal situations can arise unexpectedly. Whether it’s a self-defense incident, an accidental discharge, or an accusation of unlawful possession, legal representation can be expensive.

This is why firearm liability insurance is a valuable asset. It provides financial protection to gun owners who may face criminal charges or civil lawsuits related to firearm use. As criminal defense attorneys, we highly recommend responsible gun owners consider insurance policies, such as those offered by Universal Fire and Casualty Insurance Company (UFCIC), to help cover attorney fees and legal costs in gun-related cases.

In this blog, we’ll explore why gun insurance is crucial, the benefits of having coverage, and how UFCIC firearm insurance can help protect you financially if you ever need legal representation.

What Is Firearm Insurance?

Firearm insurance provides financial protection for legal defense fees, civil liability claims, and other costs associated with firearm-related incidents. Unlike standard homeowner’s insurance, which typically does not cover intentional firearm use (even in self-defense cases), specialized firearm insurance is specifically designed for legal and civil protection involving firearms.

Depending on the policy, gun insurance can cover:

Attorney fees for criminal defense.
Civil lawsuits arising from firearm use.
Bail bond assistance.
Loss of wages during legal proceedings.
Firearm confiscation defense.

Having gun insurance ensures that, should an unexpected legal situation arise, you can secure expert legal representation without facing overwhelming financial burdens.

Why Gun Owners Should Have Firearm Insurance

Legal Protection for Self-Defense Cases

If you use your firearm in self-defense, you could still be charged with a crime or sued in civil court. Even if the shooting was justified, prosecutors may decide to press charges, and victims' families may file lawsuits.

Legal defense in such cases can cost tens of thousands of dollars, even if you are ultimately found not guilty. Firearm insurance ensures that you have the financial resources to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight your case.

Coverage for Accidental Discharges

Accidental firearm discharges can occur at home, at the range, or even while handling the gun responsibly. Depending on the circumstances, you could be charged with:

Negligent discharge of a firearm (PC 246.3)
Reckless endangerment
Unlawful discharge in a prohibited area

Gun insurance can help cover the legal fees associated with defending against these charges.

Protection Against Red Flag Laws & Gun Confiscation

California’s Red Flag Laws, also known as Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs), allow family members or law enforcement to request a court order to temporarily confiscate firearms from individuals they believe pose a danger.

If your guns are seized under an ERPO, firearm insurance can help pay for legal representation to challenge the order and restore your firearm rights.

Assistance with Concealed Carry Violations

Even with a valid CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) permit, legal issues can arise. If you're accused of:

Carrying in a prohibited area (e.g., government buildings, schools, or private businesses that prohibit firearms).
Improperly transporting your firearm.
Expired or suspended CCW licenses due to administrative issues.

A firearm insurance policy with legal defense coverage ensures that you receive professional legal help in resolving these cases.

Protection Against Gun-Related Misdemeanors and Felonies

Some of the most common firearm-related charges in California include:

Unlawful possession of a firearm (PC 29800 - Felon in possession of a firearm)
Carrying a loaded firearm in public (PC 25850)
Brandishing a firearm (PC 417)
Unregistered firearm possession
Illegal modifications (e.g., silencers, high-capacity magazines, automatic conversions)

Each of these offenses carries serious penalties, including fines, probation, and jail time. Having firearm insurance with legal coverage ensures that you have the resources to fight these charges effectively.

Universal Fire and Casualty Insurance Company: A Trusted Provider

One of the top providers of firearm liability insurance is Universal Fire and Casualty Insurance Company (UFCIC). They specialize in offering comprehensive gun liability coverage, including legal defense costs.

Key Benefits of UFCIC Firearm Insurance:

✅ Legal Defense Coverage: Pays for attorney fees if you're charged with a gun-related offense.
✅ Self-Defense Protection: Covers legal expenses if you lawfully use your firearm for self-defense.
✅ Civil Liability Protection: Provides coverage for lawsuits related to firearm use.
✅ Bail Bond Assistance: Some policies may help cover bail costs if you're arrested.
✅ Gun Confiscation Defense: Helps protect your rights if your firearms are seized due to Red Flag Laws or other legal disputes.

Unlike traditional insurance policies, UFCIC firearm insurance is tailored for gun owners who need protection against criminal or civil claims related to lawful gun use.

How to Choose the Right Gun Insurance Policy

If you’re considering firearm insurance, here are some key factors to evaluate:

🔹 Coverage Amounts: Ensure the policy provides enough legal defense funds for experienced legal representation.
🔹 Policy Inclusions: Look for coverage that includes criminal defense, civil liability, and self-defense cases.
🔹 Exclusions: Read the fine print to understand what situations are not covered.
🔹 Bail Bond Coverage: Some policies include bail assistance, which is crucial if you're taken into custody.
🔹 Monthly vs. Annual Premiums: Compare costs to find a policy that fits your budget.

Universal Fire and Casualty Insurance Company offers customizable coverage options, making it an excellent choice for responsible firearm owners.

Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself with Firearm Insurance

Owning a firearm comes with legal risks, and even responsible gun owners can face unexpected legal challenges. Gun insurance provides critical financial protection and ensures you have access to legal representation if you are accused of a firearm-related crime or involved in a self-defense case.

At The Law Offices of Kirk Tarman & Associates, we strongly encourage responsible gun owners to consider Universal Fire and Casualty Insurance Company for firearm liability coverage. Ensuring that you have the right legal and financial protection in place can make all the difference in defending your rights.

🔹 If you are facing gun-related charges, contact us immediately. With over 25 years of criminal defense experience, we are committed to protecting your rights and providing the best defense possible.

📞 Call us at (909) 658-7341 for a free consultation today!