With school shootings and rising incidents of gun violence in the state, New York is imposing harsher penalties. As such, if you’ve been arrested for a firearm crime, you shouldn’t underestimate the charges against you. You need legal counsel from a competent criminal defense attorney.
I can defend clients accused of firearm crimes, including Illegal sale of firearms and drug crimes that involve firearms. I am also well-versed in possession charges.
Criminal Possession and Criminal Use
In New York, there are two separate charges that fall under the state gun laws: 1) Criminal Possession of a Weapon and 2) Criminal use of a Firearm. Charges for the first one can be applied if you either possess a weapon illegally or possess an illegal weapon, say a machine gun.
The charges can either be a felony or a misdemeanor; the key difference here is whether or not the firearm is loaded.
Sentencing of a Firearm Crime Conviction
If you’ve been previously convicted of a crime, even if it’s a non-violent offense, the charge can be elevated to a higher level of felony offense resulting in additional jail time.
Note that in 2006, the legislators made Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree a Class C felony. This means if you’re convicted, you could face up to fifteen years of imprisonment, even with no prior criminal record.
Criminal Defense Attorney, Former Prosecutor
As a former prosecutor, I can evaluate the validity of search warrants and contest police testimony. I can find weak spots in the arguments of the prosecution – because I have stood in their shoes. I will use my knowledge to fight vigorously for your case.
Don’t wait. Gun charges are treated very seriously in NY, and sound legal advice and aggressive representation can spell the difference between jail time and a dismissal. Call today for an initial consultation. 516.399.0233
