Suffolk Gun Lawyer
Being arrested on a gun charge can be frightening and can entail some serious consequences. Depending on the specific charge, the penalties can be pretty steep. Fortunately, contacting a Suffolk gun lawyer is a big step in the right direction. A gun lawyer in Suffolk may help you reduce your penalties, give you peace of mind, and may help you clear your name.
Gun Offenses in Virginia
Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code covers criminal offenses in general, and most gun-related offenses are found in Virginia Code Section 18.2-279 through 18.2-311. Virginia has passed a multitude of laws in an effort to balance the Commonwealth’s interest in protecting the constitutional right of its citizens to bear arms against the public interest in safety. If you break these laws, you can be charged with a gun-related crime likely making it your best interest to contact a Suffolk gun lawyer as soon as possible.
Examples of some of these gun crimes include:
- Recklessly handling a gun in public: Section 18.2-282 defines this offense as pointing or waving a gun in such a way as to reasonably frighten someone. It does not matter if the gun is incapable of being fired.
- Bringing a gun to a courthouse: Section 18.2-283.1 sets penalties of up to a 12 month jail term in addition to a fine of up to $2,500. Furthermore, your gun can be confiscated.
- Firing a firearm from a vehicle: Discharging a gun from a vehicle is a felony. That means you could be sentenced to one to 10 years in prison, if convicted (Section 18.2-286.1).
- Carrying a concealed gun without a concealed carry permit: Failing to have the proper permit can lead to penalties if you do not meet the exceptions (Section 18.2-308).
Some of these offenses have multiple elements and often have varying degrees of penalties. A Suffolk gun lawyer can go over the charges and help you understand what you are being charged with and how best to defend yourself against the charges.
Defending Against Gun Charges
Defending against gun charges in Suffolk requires a strategic approach tailored to each case. For illegal possession, defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the search and seizure or proving the firearm was not in your possession. Assault with a deadly weapon charges might be defended by demonstrating self-defense or lack of intent to cause harm. Trafficking charges often involve scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence chain and questioning the legality of surveillance methods used. Consulting with an experienced Suffolk domestic violence lawyer is crucial to navigate these complex legal waters and achieve the best possible outcome.
How a Suffolk Gun Lawyer Can Assist You
A Suffolk gun lawyer can help you to assess your situation and make all of your options known to you if you have been charged with a gun offense. Your attorney can:
- Negotiate with the prosecutor in an attempt to plead to a lesser offense. Often times a prosecutor will accept a guilty plea to a lesser offense.
- Help you to understand all of the charges against you in order to establish your best defense. Your lawyer may be able to establish mitigating factors that could reduce your penalties.
- Represent you in court. Many of these offenses have clauses stating that you can get a lighter penalty, at the discretion of the jury or the judge. A Suffolk gun attorney would be in a position to ask for discretion.
Being charged with a gun-related offense in Virginia can be a serious process. You do not need to face it alone.
Call today and to set up a free initial consultation with a Suffolk gun lawyer.
