Annapolis Gun Lawyer
Maryland is among the states with the nation’s toughest gun laws. If you have a prior criminal record, an already serious gun charge arrest is even worse. You could face years behind bars and substantial fines.
If you are arrested on gun charges, you need the help of an Annapolis gun lawyer. Given that the need for a skilled legal representative is critical in such cases, do not hesitate to reach out to a lawyer.
Maryland Gun Laws
The state carefully regulates gun sales, registration, and transfers. An individual selling their firear privately must have the sale processed by a licensed gun dealer, or via a law enforcement agency.
New gun buyers must have their fingerprints digitally registered with the State Police, and all handguns and automatic firearms require State Police registration. Hunting rifles do not require permits.
Federal Firearm Laws
Federal gun laws are typically more strict than state laws. They also contain provisions for minimum mandatory sentencing. It is not unusual for Maryland law enforcement officials to send gun-related arrests to their federal counterparts, notably if the gun was used in a crime relating to drugs or violence. In some cases, a person may go to prison for decades – if not for life – following a federal gun conviction. Given the potential consequences of a gun crime conviction, accused persons are recommended to contact a hard-working attorney for legal representation.
New Firearm Laws
Several major Maryland gun laws went into effect on October 1, 2018. These include a bump stock ban, and a “red flag” law in which law enforcement, a medical professional, family members or someone the party is dating can ask for a court order temporarily restricting the access to firearms for people at risk of harming themselves – or others. An Annapolis attorney could explain how these new gun laws may impact any firarm allegations individuals face.
Potential Penalties For Gun Crimes
Under Maryland statute 4-203, illegally carrying a firearm is a misdemeanor. Even first offenders face up to three years in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If convicted a second time, the person potentially faces up to a decade behind bars. If a gun is used during the commission of a violent crime, that may add up to 20 more years to a sentence. The mandatory minimum for such a crime is five years.
Assault weapons are banned in Maryland, and anyone found illegally possessing them faces up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Owning an unregistered firearm, such as a machine gun or sawed-off shotgun, might result in a 10-year sentence.
If a person has already been convicted of a felony or on drug charges, they cannot keep any type of firearm. If caught with a weapon, they face up to 10 years in prison.
How a Gun Attorney Could Help
Anyone charged with a gun crime, notably a federal crime, requires a strong defense team. The defendant may face years of incarceration along with massive fines.
Accused individuals could speak with a gun attorney that is well-versed in Maryland and federal gun laws, and familiar with the court system and prosecutors. A gun defense attorney in Annapolis may also examine whether the search resulting in a firearms arrest was conducted legally and could defend individuals aggressively using their knowledge and experience.
Contact a Maryland Gun Lawyer
If you or a loved one is charged with a gun crime, you need the services of an experienced Annapolis gun lawyer. Call today to arrange a consultation or contact online. An attorney will review your case, inform you of the penalties you are facing, and advise you of your options going forward.
