West Palm Beach Federal Weapons Charges Lawyer

Consequences of Federal Weapons Charges

The repercussions of federal weapons charges are multifaceted and contingent on the nature of the alleged offense. Understanding the potential consequences is crucial for individuals facing such accusations.

The potential penalties for some weapons charges include the following:

• Felon in possession of a firearm: This offense is punishable by up to ten years imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and $250,000 in fines. Significantly, under the Armed Career Criminal Act, a person with three prior state or federal convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses must serve fifteen years in prison if convicted of felon in possession of a firearm.
• Unlawful trafficking in firearms: Each offense has possible prison sentences of up to fifteen years.
• Possessing a firearm during a violent or drug crime: Simple possession can result in a term of imprisonment of not less than five years. Brandishing the weapon escalates the sentence to a minimum of seven years while discharging it carries a sentence of not less than ten years. These sentences are enhanced and have incredibly severe consequences depending on a person’s criminal history and the type of weapon. For example, if a person has a prior conviction under this statute and the firearm is a machine gun or destructive device, or is equipped with a firearm silencer, the person shall be sentenced to life imprisonment.
• Providing a firearm to a juvenile: Providing a handgun to a minor can lead to a one-year term of incarceration. However, providing the firearm to a juvenile knowing or having reasonable cause to know that the juvenile intended to carry, possess, or discharge the firearm in the commission of a crime of violence can lead to ten years of imprisonment.

Impact on Criminal Record and Future

In addition to potential imprisonment, supervised release, and substantial fines, federal weapons charges can have lasting implications on one's criminal record and prospects. A conviction can leave a mark on an individual’s record, affecting employment opportunities, housing eligibility, and other aspects of life.

Defenses Against Federal Weapons Charges

Federal weapons charges are indeed severe, carrying significant consequences. Defendants have avenues to challenge the allegations and pursue favorable outcomes. Successful defense strategies often require a personalized approach tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. 

Here are a couple of examples of ways to fight a weapons charge:

• Lack of knowledge or intent: One potential defense against federal weapons charges involves demonstrating that the defendant lacked knowledge or intent regarding the alleged offense. This defense may be applicable in cases where the individual was unaware of the presence of a weapon or did not intend to use it for unlawful purposes. Establishing the lack of knowledge or intent can be crucial in building a solid defense.
• Unlawful search and seizure: Another viable defense revolves around challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the weapon's discovery. If law enforcement conducted a search or seizure without a proper warrant or probable cause, any evidence obtained as a result may be deemed inadmissible in court. This defense underscores the importance of protecting an individual's Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Building a robust defense necessitates the resources, insights, and experience of a West Palm Beach federal weapons charges attorney.

Why Choose Us?

At the Law Offices of Greg Rosenfeld, P.A., we practice federal criminal defense and have experience navigating the intricacies of the justice system. We possess the knowledge and resources necessary to develop well-researched and well-prepared defenses tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. Our commitment to thorough preparation is a cornerstone of our legal practice.

Our West Palm Beach federal weapons charges lawyer is ready to provide a confidential consultation to understand your situation and discuss possible courses of action. Please contact us today at (561) 902-1122.