Charged with a Weapons Crime in Georgia?
Weapons charges arise in a variety of contexts. Sometimes, having a gun changes the charges associated with some other crime. Sometimes a weapons charge has to do with who possesses the weapon. And some charges have to do with the gun itself. A drug crime will incur stiffer penalties if a weapon such as gun or a knife was involved.
Felons and Juveniles in Possession
People with felony convictions are not ordinarily allowed to possess firearms. Those who are found to be in violation may be charged under “felon in possession” offense labels. Juveniles face certain restrictions regarding possession of firearms.
Unlawful Possession
Other weapons charges focus on the weapon itself such as owning a handgun with out a permit, possessing an unlicensed gun, failing to follow gun sales regulations, possessing a machine gun or assault weapon, or unlawful possession of a fake or imitation handgun with intention to use it illegally.
Misdemeanors, Felonies; City, State, Federal Crimes Involving Weapons
Gun charges may be misdemeanors or felonies, depending on circumstances. They may be charged as city crimes, state crimes or federal crimes. If you have been charged with a gun-related crime in Georgia — whether a state crime or a federal crime — seek aggressive, knowledgeable legal counsel to give yourself the greatest likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Mandatory Sentences in Federal Cases
Stakes are high in any criminal matter. This is especially true in federal gun cases, where mandatory minimum sentences may remove any opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain with a prosecutor or judge. Careers are often derailed or ruined when a weapons charge results in a mandatory prison sentence.
Defense
Was the gun discovered by the police as a result of an illegal search? Seek the most aggressive criminal defense attorney you can find if you have been charged with a weapons crime of any type.