American citizens have certain rights under the United States Constitution. For instance, the Second Amendment allows you to keep and bear arms. However, there a few conditions attached to this right. Each state decides what those conditions are, as well as why and how the right can be revoked. The state also decides how to prosecute and punish the guilty. If you face charges involving guns, know that Virginia takes such violations seriously. Therefore, it is in your better interest to contact a Chantilly gun lawyer after an arrest. If you are facing other criminal charges in Chantilly, click that link.
It often takes an attorney to clarify Virginia gun laws to the accused – the statutes are that complex. For instance, many people aren’t aware that certain offenses are misdemeanors the first time, and felonies when committed again. Also, carrying and discharging a weapon can be seen as two distinct crimes. Therefore, they can be charged, prosecuted, and sentenced as different crimes. Mandatory minimum sentences for certain convictions complicate things even further. All these complexities mean you may benefit from a consultation with a gun lawyer about defense options.
There are many potential consequences of Virginia gun convictions, and significant jail time is only one of them. Even if you aren’t incarcerated, unbearable fines or community service commitments can cripple your life. You can even lose your job if your employer discovers you were convicted. Finding another job may be next to impossible – typically, no one wants to hire those found guilty of firearm offenses.
Common gun charges in Chantilly, Virginia include unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm while committing a felony. The former can occur when certain persons, who are prohibited from possessing a gun, are alleged to have been in possession of a firearm. This can be complicated in situations where prosecutors use “constructive possession” to try to prove their case. Possession of a firearm while committing a felony can also be a frustrating charge, especially when it attaches to other allegations and leaves a person facing stiffer penalties.
But if you face prosecution for these offenses, you still retain certain rights. One of these rights allows you to have legal counsel. This means that you can hire a Chantilly gun lawyer to make sure you are treated fairly by the criminal justice system. An attorney can also work to defend you from both the gun-related charges and any other allegations.
When choosing an attorney, you need someone efficient, thorough, and above all, effective. Pick someone with experience handling cases with similar charges. When you seek a Chantilly gun attorney with firearm defense experience, schedule a meeting today. We are ready to fight vigorously on your behalf towards a case resolution. Your first consultation is free. Call today at (703) 957-7373.
Please contact us for more information about these laws and how our attorneys can help with any associated charges.
Northern Virginia Criminal Defense Group
