If you have been charged with a weapons violation in Lanham, MD, securing a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer should be your immediate priority. At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, our legal team is well-versed in Maryland’s gun laws and is committed to offering a strong defense for those accused of weapons offenses. We understand the potential impact of these charges on your freedom and future. For help with a charge in Lanham, Maryland, reach out as soon as possible. Contact our firm today at (301) 262-7005 to schedule a free consultation with a Lanham weapons charges lawyer.
How Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help If You’re Arrested For Weapons Charges
If you’re facing weapons charges in Lanham, MD, it’s important to hire a lawyer as soon as possible. Here’s how our team can help you:
- We stay updated on all aspects of state and federal firearm regulations, which is critical in providing informed defense services.
- We review the details of your arrest and the alleged weapons offense to identify any procedural errors or violations of your rights. If applicable, we will file a motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- We are skilled at negotiating with prosecutors to potentially reduce or dismiss charges in your case.
- If your case goes to trial, we provide strong courtroom representation, presenting your case and fighting to have you acquitted.
For help with a weapons charge in Lanham, Maryland, we’re here for you. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Lanham criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Weapons Charges in Maryland
In Maryland, gun-related weapons charges can carry severe penalties, and offenses vary from unlawful possession to the use of firearms in connection with other crimes. Below is a closer look at the types of gun crimes individuals might face in the state:
- Unlawful possession of a firearm: Maryland law prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms, including those with prior felonies, specific misdemeanor convictions, or those with mental health restrictions.
- Possession of an unregistered firearm: The state requires certain firearms to be registered. Possessing an unregistered firearm is a violation of Maryland’s gun laws and can lead to criminal charges.
- Illegal sale or trafficking of firearms: This involves the unlawful sale, distribution, or trafficking of firearms. These crimes are especially serious and are often prosecuted aggressively at both the state and federal levels.
- Possession of a stolen firearm: Being found with a firearm known to be stolen can lead to criminal charges, with penalties including fines and imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the case.
- Being a felon in possession of a firearm: Individuals who have been convicted of a felony in the past are typically prohibited from possessing firearms.
- Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit: Maryland requires a permit to carry a concealed weapon. Carrying a concealed gun without the appropriate permit can lead to criminal charges.
- Use of a weapon in a school zone: Bringing or using a firearm within a school zone is a federal offense and can lead to harsh penalties.
- Using a handgun in conjunction with drug distribution: Using or possessing a handgun during drug trafficking operations adds a serious element to already significant charges, often resulting in enhanced sentencing upon conviction.
- Assault with a deadly weapon: Assault with a deadly weapon, including a gun, is considered a violent crime and carries some of the most severe penalties in Maryland.
Navigating the complexities of Maryland gun laws and the associated charges requires the expertise of an attorney who understands both the statutes and the most effective defense strategies.
What Are the Penalties For Weapons Charges in Lanham, Maryland?
In Lanham, Maryland, penalties for weapons charges can be quite severe, reflecting the serious nature of these offenses. If convicted, individuals may face the following consequences, with the specifics depending on the severity of the charge and other factors such as prior criminal history and the circumstances of the offense. Possible legal repercussions include:
- Jail/prison: Weapons charges can range from misdemeanors, which might result in a shorter jail sentence, to felonies, which could lead to significant prison time.
- Probation: In addition to or in lieu of incarceration, a court may impose probation. This means that the person convicted might be released from custody but will remain under supervision for a certain period. Violating the terms of probation can lead to imprisonment or additional penalties.
- Fines: The court can also impose significant fines for weapons charges. These fines can be a few hundred dollars for lesser offenses and escalate to thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars for more serious crimes.
Beyond the immediate legal penalties such as imprisonment, fines, and probation, weapons charges can carry a variety of collateral consequences. Here’s an overview of these additional repercussions:
- Loss of employment opportunities: A weapons charge conviction can hinder your ability to secure employment. Employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal record can deter them from offering a job.
- Ineligibility for professional licenses: Certain professions that require state licensing may deny or revoke licenses for individuals with weapons charge convictions, which could end or indefinitely halt a professional career.
- Restrictions on housing opportunities: A weapons conviction might influence housing options, as many landlords conduct criminal background checks and may be reluctant to rent to individuals with a criminal history.
- Impact on custody and family law matters: Criminal convictions can affect child custody determinations and other family law matters, with courts likely viewing a weapons charge as indicative of a risk to the child’s safety.
- Immigration consequences: For non-U.S. citizens, a weapons charge conviction can have serious immigration implications, including deportation, exclusion from reentry into the U.S., and denial of naturalization.
- Damage to reputation: The stigma associated with a weapons charge can adversely affect personal relationships and community standing, resulting in social ostracism or reputational damage.
These collateral consequences underscore the importance of a strong defense against weapons charges to minimize the impact on your future opportunities and quality of life.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Weapons Charges?
When arrested for weapons charges, several defenses can be raised to challenge the allegations. The approach taken will be highly dependent on the specific circumstances of the case and the evidence available. Possible defenses include:
- Unlawful search and seizure: A common defense revolves around the Fourth Amendment right against unlawful search and seizure. If the weapon was discovered during a search that violated your constitutional rights, the evidence might be excluded from the case.
- Lack of possession: You may argue that you were not in possession of the weapon. This can be particularly relevant if the firearm was found in a shared space and there is no definitive proof that you were the owner or controller of the weapon.
- Lack of knowledge: In some cases, you might assert that you were unaware of the weapon’s presence. This defense could apply if a firearm was found in a vehicle or property you were using but did not belong to you.
- Legal right to possess the firearm: You may have a valid defense if you can demonstrate that you had a legal right to possess the firearm in question, such as having the necessary permits or licenses.
- Mistaken identity: You may be able to challenge the weapons charges by asserting that you have been mistakenly identified as the person who committed the alleged offense. This could involve disputing eyewitness testimony, presenting alibi evidence, or contesting forensic evidence linking you to the weapon.
- Temporary possession: Temporary possession can sometimes serve as a defense. If it can be demonstrated that you only had momentary or transitory control of the weapon for a legitimate purpose, such as disarming an aggressor or securing the weapon to hand it over to law enforcement, this may mitigate the charges.
It’s important to work with a skilled defense attorney who can evaluate the details of your case and develop an effective defense strategy.
Facing weapons charges in Maryland can lead to severe legal and collateral consequences that affect nearly every aspect of your life. If you find yourself in this situation, It’s crucial to work with a knowledgeable and experienced defense attorney who can navigate the law and protect your rights. If you or someone you know is dealing with weapons charges in Lanham, Maryland, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Lanham weapons charges lawyer.