Montgomery Gun Crime Attorney
Firearm offenses are serious criminal charges that can have long-term effects on your life and your civil rights. If you have been arrested or charged with a gun offense, legal representation and support is crucial. The right and skilled Montgomery gun crimes lawyer could prevent you from facing the worst penalties for the offense. Legal representation protects your rights and could result in reduced or dropped charges.
A conviction for a firearm offense can result in years in prison, sometimes with mandatory minimum sentencing. Conviction can also result in fines, lost civil rights, and your future being impeded by a criminal record. You need a strong defense, and an experienced criminal defense lawyer can give you the greatest chance of avoiding these life-altering penalties.
Legal Defense for Weapons Crimes
When you are searching for legal support, it is crucial to find an attorney who has experience defending individuals from firearm offenses and other weapons crimes.
At The Law Office of Richard K. Keith, we have represented individuals in criminal courts through the communities in and around Montgomery and have over 30 years of experience in criminal defense law. We believe in providing you with diligent, respectful, and exceptional legal support. We bring you strong legal defenses and provide frequent communication throughout your case.
It’s important not to underestimate the effect that a weapons offense conviction can have on your life. Whether you are facing a criminal trial, need to appeal a decision, or need post-conviction support, The Law Office of Richard K. Keith can help.
Gun Offenses in Montgomery
Firearm laws regulate how these weapons are possessed, sold, and distributed. Some of the commonly charged gun crimes include:
- Possession of an illegal firearm
- Sale of a firearm to a minor
- Sale of a firearm or ammunition to a convicted felon
- Sale of firearms without a license
- Possession of a firearm on prohibited premises
- Trafficking and transport of firearms and ammunition
- Use of a firearm related to a felony offense
Weapons crimes can be violent or nonviolent offenses. Violent offenses are commonly related to other crimes like kidnapping, robbery, and drug offenses.
Firearm Restrictions
Under law, it is illegal for certain individuals to possess or receive a firearm or ammunition from interstate or foreign commerce. Anyone convicted of a crime that can be punished with more than a year of imprisonment is prohibited from obtaining or possessing a firearm in this manner. Therefore, if you are convicted of a weapons offense that is a felony, you will lose your gun rights. Possession of a gun is then another offense.
Other individuals who are prohibited from possessing a firearm include:
- Fugitives from justice
- Unlawful user of a controlled substance
- Those who have been committed to a mental institution
- An illegal alien in the country
- An alien in the country on a nonimmigrant visa
- Those dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces
- Anyone who has renounced their U.S. citizenship
- Those convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence offenses
In Montgomery, there are other restrictions on who can possess a pistol or firearm. Possession can result in felony or misdemeanor charges.
Why Do I Need an Attorney for Gun Charges?
Without the assistance of a criminal defense attorney, it will be much more difficult to navigate the criminal justice system. An attorney can guide you through the system, defend your rights, take action if your rights are violated, and increase the chances of your criminal charges being mitigated or eliminated. In Montgomery, Alabama conviction of a gun offense can lead to fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record that can affect your opportunities for the rest of your life.
A criminal defense attorney has dealt with the criminal justice system numerous times, understands the relevant processes, and can keep you informed. They can investigate your arrest and charges against you. Based on this information, your attorney can determine the ideal defense strategy for your unique case. An attorney can also advise you on whether a plea deal is a favorable outcome to your case and if a presented plea deal is fair.
FAQs
The cost of a gun criminal defense lawyer in Alabama can vary significantly, and more serious charges tend to result in higher defense attorney costs. Another factor that affects attorney fees is the case complexity, including the resources needed to investigate the offense. Attorney fees also rely on the experience the attorney has in criminal defense and their success in their past cases. It is important to discuss fees with an attorney upfront.
In Alabama, there are few options for regaining your right to own a firearm after a felony conviction. Speaking with an attorney can help you determine if you are eligible for any of these options and how to begin the process. If you are eligible, they can also support you through the process and help you avoid making any costly mistakes.
No, a felon cannot live in a house with guns in Alabama. It is illegal for a convicted felon and certain other persons to possess a firearm, which includes a firearm being under the person’s control or where they can exercise control. The firearm being in the felon’s home is considered to be where they can exercise control. Those who live with a convicted felon must ensure firearms and ammunition are outside of their control.
A gun crime is the illegal use or possession of a firearm. Gun crimes can also include offenses like selling firearms without a license or the defacing of weapons. Convicted felons possessing firearms is another serious criminal offense. An offense does not have to be violent for it to be a weapons offense, such as possession or sale of firearms.
Gun Crime Defense Representation at The Law Office of Richard K. Keith
A gun crime conviction can have numerous consequences, both immediately and for the rest of your life. Even if the charge seems minor, you should get legal support as soon as possible. The sooner you work with skilled legal representation, the quicker they can begin to build your case. When you need experienced defense in criminal courts, contact The Law Office of Richard K. Keith.