Although you have a constitutional right to gun ownership, there are many strict rules in Virginia that limit that right. If you violate any of these rules, even accidentally, you could be charged with a crime. Therefore it may be in your best interest to contact a gun lawyer in Loudoun County as soon as you are accused.
In addition to the other benefits of working with a private criminal defense law firm, you can rest assured that your lawyer is prepared to meet the prosecution head-on.
After investigating your charges, your lawyer may be able to help keep evidence that was obtained against you from being used in court if you were the victim of an illegal search. If you succeed, the charges may be dismissed.
Your Loudoun County gun attorney may also be able to introduce doubt about guilt and/or raise defenses to a gun crime, such as justification for discharging your weapon due to self-defense. If you can introduce reasonable doubt and a prosecutor can’t meet the burden of proving you guilty, you should not be convicted.
A Loudoun County gun lawyer can provide you with legal representation and advice about these and other defense options and can represent you throughout your case. Call today to learn more.
Virginia has shall issue rules, so anyone who meets the criteria for a concealed carry permit must be issued once. The state also recognizes permits permitting concealed carry from 30 other U.S. states.
If you not have a permit and you carry a concealed weapon, you can be charged with a gun crime under Virginia Code Section 18.2-308. This offense, which is a misdemeanor for a first offense and a felony for subsequent offenses, is just one of many that can lead to either misdemeanor or felony charges. Other gun crimes include:
Your Loudoun County gun lawyer can help you to understand all the charges that have been brought against you.
Potential penalties for gun crimes in Loudoun County will vary based on whether you have been charged with a felony or a misdemeanor. A Class 6 felony can lead to between one and five years’ imprisonment under Code Section 18.2-10. A Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to twelve months in jail and/or a fine of $2,500 maximum under Code Section 18.2-11.
Some weapons offenses have mandatory minimum penalties. The use of a gun to commit rape, forcible sodomy, carjacking, or certain other felony offenses can result in a mandatory minimum sentence of three years imprisonment for a first offense and five years’ imprisonment for a second or subsequent offense under Code Section 18.2-53.1. These minimum prison terms are in addition to penalties for the underlying crime and generally run concurrent to any other penalties imposed.
When facing the prospect of a criminal record and possibly even imprisonment, serious defense measures are necessary. A Loudoun County gun attorney with our firm understands the gravity of your situation and is prepared to give your case the time and energy it deserves. Call today to learn how we can work to help you to move past these charges with minimal impact on your personal and professional life.
Northern Virginia Criminal Defense Group