Bridgeport Gun Crime Lawyer

Bridgeport Gun Crime Attorney

The right to own firearms is important to American citizens, but there are times when owning or using firearms is against the law. Often, these situations carry severe criminal penalties that can negatively impact your life for years following an arrest and conviction. If you have been charged with a firearm crime, it is crucial that you reach out to a knowledgeable, trusted Bridgeport gun crime lawyer.

You cannot afford to hesitate when facing gun-related charges. The Crowe Law, LLC, is committed to protecting your rights. We can build a strong defense that helps you reach a favorable outcome. Though the process will likely be difficult, we can guide, support, and defend you from the beginning to the end of your case.

Gun Crimes in West Virginia

West Virginia law enforcement and prosecutors have an interest in harshly pursuing and prosecuting gun-related crimes. In 2023, the gun death rate was 22% greater in West Virginia than the national average. Unfortunately, this push behind prosecutions can result in consequences like violations of defendants’ rights and unfair charges.

Gun crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes that carry a lesser sentence – a maximum of one year’s incarceration and a $2,500 fine. Examples of gun-related misdemeanors include:

• Bringing a firearm into a courthouse
• Forging a training certificate to use a firearm
• Shooting a firearm across a public road or within 500 feet of a school, church, or dwelling where you do not live
• Trespassing with a firearm with the intent to cause harm
• Refusing to leave after carrying a firearm onto property where it is prohibited

More serious crimes are charged as felonies, and the most serious felonies can result in life imprisonment without the option for parole. Examples of gun-related felonies include:

• Using a firearm in the commission of a felony
• Concealed carrying a firearm if you are prohibited from owning one
• Carrying a firearm onto a school bus
• Substantially risking serious bodily injury or death with a firearm

Defenses for Gun Crimes

Though you may feel that you have no options for a strong defense strategy, there are often many options that can help mitigate the charges you are facing. Some common defenses against gun-related crimes include:

• Illegal search and seizure. Law enforcement must act within the law and follow strict procedures when obtaining evidence. If these procedures were not followed or if your rights were violated during collection, it may be possible to have the resulting evidence ruled inadmissible in court. If material evidence cannot be used, the prosecution may be forced to drop or reduce the charges you are facing.
• Insufficient evidence. A skilled defense attorney may be able to find holes in the evidence presented by the prosecution. If the prosecution fails to meet the burden of proof required for a conviction, the case against you may be dismissed.
• Lack of intent or knowledge. The prosecution must show that you knowingly used, possessed, or transported the firearm in violation of the law. A potential defense strategy is to show that you were unaware of the firearm. You could also attempt to show that you were only in possession of a firearm because you intended to turn it over to law enforcement, but you were caught before you were able.
• Self-defense. If you used the firearm to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, the defense team can argue that you were justified in using the weapon.

Building a successful defense strategy requires thorough knowledge of the law and an understanding of how to apply it in the courtroom. Crowe Law, LLC, has the experience and knowledge necessary to craft a solid defense strategy for your specific circumstances.

Individuals Denied the Right to Own Firearms

Gun ownership is an important right in West Virginia. In 2016, an estimated 57% of adult West Virginians had at least one firearm in their home, well above the national average of 32%. However, some circumstances can result in individuals losing the right to own firearms in West Virginia. Some of these circumstances are:

• Conviction of a crime that is punishable by a period of imprisonment greater than one year
• Dishonorable discharge from the US Armed Forces
• Domestic abuse convictions
• Admittance into a mental institution against the person’s will
• Being found mentally incompetent by the court
• Being deemed habitually addicted to alcohol or controlled substances by the court

If you have questions about your right to own firearms, it is important that you clarify your circumstances before you purchase a firearm. If you believe your right to own firearms has been infringed upon, Crowe Law, LLC, may be able to help. Our knowledgeable team can answer any questions you have.

FAQs

Can You Get Your Gun Rights Back in West Virginia?

It is possible to get your right to own a gun back in West Virginia, but it can be very difficult to meet the requirements. Individuals who have lost their right to own firearms can petition their local circuit court to restore their ability to legally purchase and possess a gun, but the specific requirements can be complicated. An experienced defense attorney can help you determine if you are eligible.

Is West Virginia a Gun-Friendly State?

West Virginia is generally considered a gun-friendly state. West Virginia is a constitutional carry state, which means laws related to carrying a weapon are lenient. Anyone who is over the age of 21 and legally able to carry a weapon can open carry it without a permit. A concealed carry permit is easy to obtain when it is required.

What Is the Punishment for Misdemeanor Gun Crimes?

In Bridgeport, the punishment for misdemeanor gun crimes depends entirely on the crime that was committed and whether any aggravating or mitigating factors were present. If the crime was charged as a misdemeanor, however, there is a maximum punishment.

What Firearms Are Illegal to Possess in West Virginia?

Though West Virginia is a firearm-friendly state, there are some firearm types that residents cannot legally own. Examples of prohibited weapons include a Steyr AUG, Kalashnikov, rocket launcher, or military firearm. Firearm collectors and enthusiasts can unintentionally break the law if they acquire these weapons without being aware of the law.

Fighting Gun Crime Charges

Gun crimes can carry severe penalties, including losing the right to own and possess firearms altogether. Crowe Law, LLC, can help you protect your constitutional rights if you are facing firearm offense charges. Reach out to our office today to see how we can help.