What To Do When Facing Criminal Gun Charges
At Grace Legal Offices, we understand that facing firearm charges can be an overwhelming and emotionally draining experience. That’s why we strive to provide our clients with the highest quality legal representation in Camp Hill and Harrisburg, PA. Our team of experienced firearms attorneys is committed to helping those who have been charged with a firearms offense get their lives back on track.
We take pride in providing personalized service tailored to each case involving weapons offenses. We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the best possible outcome from their legal situation by offering an experienced criminal defense attorney through every step of the process. From pre-trial strategy to trial proceedings, we will work diligently to protect your rights and interests throughout your entire case.
Understanding Gun Charges in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has some of the strictest firearms laws in the nation. It is important to know that you could face harsh penalties if convicted of firearms charges including hefty fines and even imprisonment in state prison. Knowing your rights and understanding the law can help you navigate the legal system with ease and confidence. That’s why it is so important to have a qualified gun charge firearms defense attorney on your side.
At Grace Legal Offices, we understand the complexities of gun charges in Pennsylvania. Our experienced attorneys have dealt with a wide range of firearm offenses and are well-versed in the intricacies of the law. We will provide you with knowledgeable counsel throughout the legal process and work tirelessly to defend your rights and interests. Don’t leave your defense to chance, contact Grace Legal Offices today for trusted representation.
Why You Need a Gun Charge Defense Lawyer
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is essential if you have been charged with a firearm offense. A qualified attorney can help you understand the charges against you and explain the potential consequences of a conviction. In addition, they can provide valuable advice on how to best approach your case and develop effective pre-trial strategies to ensure the best possible outcome.
At Grace Legal Offices, we are committed to providing personalized service and trusted representation. Our attorneys will work closely with you throughout the entire process to help you understand your rights and develop a solid defense strategy tailored to your case. We strive to provide the highest quality legal services to ensure that our clients receive justice. Contact us today to learn more about our gun charge defense services and how we can help you.
Types of Gun Charges in Pennsylvania
If you have been charged with a firearm offense, it is vital to understand the specific charges and the potential consequences that you could face. Firearm offenses can range from simple misdemeanors to serious felony charges, depending on the specifics of the case. Some of the common firearm-related charges in Pennsylvania include:
- Illegal possession of firearms: It is illegal to carry a firearm without the proper permits or licenses in Pennsylvania. If you are found in possession of a firearm and do not have the required licenses, you could face severe criminal charges.
- Unlawful use of a firearm: This includes the use of a firearm in the commission of a crime or threatening individuals with a firearm. Unlawful use of a firearm is a serious offense and can result in significant fines and imprisonment.
- Possession of prohibited firearms: Certain types of firearms, such as automatic weapons or short-barreled rifles, are prohibited in Pennsylvania. If you possess any of these types of firearms, you could face serious criminal charges.
- Improper storage of firearms: If you are a gun owner, you are legally required to store your firearms safely. Failure to store your firearms properly can result in criminal charges, especially if it results in the injury or death of another person.
If you need your legal rights protected, contact us now.
Penalties for Gun Charges in Pennsylvania
The penalties for a firearm conviction depend on the specific type of charge and aggravating factors involved in the case. Generally speaking, most gun-related offenses carry significant fines and possible imprisonment. In some cases, individuals may also face probation or mandatory drug testing as part of their sentence.
If you are facing firearms charges in Pennsylvania, it is important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys at Grace Legal Offices law firm can provide you with knowledgeable counsel and fight for your rights throughout the entire legal process. Contact us today to learn more about our gun charge defense services and how we can help you.
Misdemeanor Gun Crimes And Penalties in PA
In Pennsylvania, some common misdemeanor gun charges include:
- Unlawful possession of a firearm without a license (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6106)
- Carrying a firearm without a license (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6108)
- Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6105)
- Recklessly endangering another person with a firearm (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2705)
- Discharging a firearm into an occupied structure or vehicle (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2707)
- Illegal sale or transfer of firearms (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6111)
Penalties
The penalties for misdemeanor gun charges in Pennsylvania can include:
- Possession of a firearm without a license (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6106): A first offense is a misdemeanor of the first degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Carrying a firearm without a license (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6108): A first offense is a misdemeanor of the first degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6105): A first offense is a misdemeanor of the first degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Recklessly endangering another person with a firearm (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2705): This offense can be a misdemeanor of the second degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Discharging a loaded firearm into an occupied structure or vehicle (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2707): This offense can be a misdemeanor of the second degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Illegal sale or transfer of firearms (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6111): A first offense is a misdemeanor of the second degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
It’s important to note that these penalties can be enhanced if there are aggravating factors present, such as prior convictions or the use of a firearm in the commission of another crime.
Felony Gun Crimes and Penalties In PA
In Pennsylvania, some common felony gun charges include:
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6105)
- Possession of a firearm with an altered or obliterated serial number (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6110.2)
- Possession of a firearm on school property (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 912)
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2702)
- Voluntary manslaughter committed with a firearm (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2503)
- Robbery with a firearm (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3701)
The penalties for each of these charges can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, but they are generally more severe than those for misdemeanor gun offenses. A felony conviction for a gun offense in Pennsylvania can result in a sentence of several years to life imprisonment, along with substantial fines and other consequences such as loss of voting rights and firearm possession rights.
Penalties
The penalties for felony gun offense charges in Pennsylvania can be severe and can include:
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6105): A first offense is a felony of the second degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- Possession of a firearm with an altered or obliterated serial number (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6110.2): A first offense is a felony of the second degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- Possession of a firearm on school property (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 912): A first offense is a felony of the third degree, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2702): This offense can be a felony of the first or second degree, depending on the severity of the injury caused. A first-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine, while a second-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- Voluntary manslaughter committed with a firearm (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2503): This offense can be a felony of the first or second degree, depending on the circumstances of the crime. A first-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a $50,000 fine, while a second-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- Robbery with a firearm (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3701): This offense can be a felony of the first or second degree, depending on the circumstances of the crime. A first-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine, while a second-degree felony carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
It’s important to note that these penalties can be enhanced if there are aggravating factors present, such as prior convictions, the use of a firearm in the commission of another crime, or the commission of the offense in a school zone or other designated area.
Our Approach to Gun Charge Defense Strategies
At Grace Legal Offices, we understand that every case is unique and requires a customized defense strategy. Our criminal defense lawyers will take the time to get to know you and your situation to develop an effective pre-trial strategy based on the facts of your case. We strive to provide personalized service and trusted representation to ensure that our clients receive justice under Pennsylvania criminal law.
Our criminal defense lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for a successful outcome in your case. We will provide valuable advice on how to best approach your case and explain the potential consequences of a conviction. Additionally, we can assist you through all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial hearings, jury selection, evidentiary hearings, plea bargaining, sentencing hearings, and appeals.
Schedule a Consultation With Lawyers For Your Gun Charges
Contact us today to discuss your gun charge defense needs with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at Grace Legal Offices. Our compassionate legal team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complex criminal justice system and achieve a successful outcome in your case. We look forward to discussing your case with you soon.
If you need your legal rights protected, contact us now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony gun charge in Pennsylvania?
Misdemeanor gun charges are less serious than felony gun charges in Pennsylvania. Misdemeanors carry a maximum penalty of up to 5 years of imprisonment, while felonies carry more severe penalties, including a maximum of life in prison.
Can I still own a gun after a gun charge conviction in Pennsylvania?
Depending on the specific charge and the circumstances of the case, a gun charge conviction in Pennsylvania could result in the loss of your right to possess firearms.
What are my rights during a gun charge arrest in Pennsylvania?
During an arrest for gun charges in Pennsylvania, you have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to refuse a search of your person or property without a warrant.
How can a lawyer help me if I'm facing gun charges in Pennsylvania?
A lawyer can help you navigate the criminal justice system, develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate plea deals, and represent you in court.
Will I have to go to trial if I'm charged with a gun crime in Pennsylvania, or can I negotiate a plea deal?
Whether you go to trial or negotiate a plea deal for a gun crime in Pennsylvania will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. A lawyer can help you determine the best course of action based on your unique situation.
