Springfield Gun Lawyer

Gun laws have become increasingly strict in many states, and Virginia is no exception. There are dozens of laws that govern gun possession and usage, many of which can have serious consequences if violated. A Springfield gun lawyer may be able to advise you about these laws and defend you against criminal charges related to gun possession or usage.

Legal restrictions on firearms and other weapons affect who can possess or purchase a gun and where individuals can carry guns. Other laws govern the discharge of weapons in various places. Regardless of the nature of your alleged gun-related violations, you may wish to seek advice from a skilled criminal defense lawyer if you are facing criminal charges. En Español.

Prohibitions on Certain Individuals Possessing Guns

Various provisions in Virginia law prohibit certain groups of people from knowingly and intentionally possessing, purchasing, or using firearms.

These groups include persons who are acquitted of crimes due to insanity pursuant to Va. Code § 18.2-308.1:1, persons whom a court has adjudicated legally incompetent or mentally incapacitated under Va. Code § 18.2-308.1:2, and persons subject to domestic violence protective orders pursuant to Va. Code § 18.2-308.1:4.

Other individuals who may be ineligible to possess guns include those who have a conviction for two or more certain drug offenses within a three-year period, as well as individuals with any felony conviction.

Concealed Weapons Permit Violations

While it is unnecessary to obtain a concealed carry permit to have a firearm within a personal residence or business, permits are required to carry a concealed weapon anywhere else. Violation of Va. Code § 18.2-308 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, but a second or subsequent violation is a felony offense. Individuals facing charges for a concealed weapons permit violation may want to get advice from a Springfield gun lawyer.

Prohibitions on Carrying Guns in Certain Places

Openly carrying guns in many public places is perfectly legal in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but there are places where doing so is illegal, such as in places of public worship and in courthouses. Virginia Code § 18.2-308.1 also prohibits individuals from possessing firearms and other weapons on school property and on school buses.

As a result of these laws, it may be important to consult a gun attorney in Springfield for any questions about the legality of carrying some kinds of weapons in public in various places.

Criminal Offenses Involving Improper Usage of Guns

There are various laws that regulate the use, pointing, brandishing, and discharge of guns in certain places, particularly with respect to public places, residences, schools, and buildings. For example, under Va. Code § 18.2-282, it is illegal to point, hold, or brandish a firearm in a way that reasonably makes others fear for their safety. This criminal offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor, except that the offense increases to a Class 6 felony if it occurs on school property or on public property located within 1,000 feet of school property.

Discharging firearms in certain situations also is prohibited. For instance, it is illegal pursuant to Va. Code § 18.2-279 to maliciously discharge a firearm in a building, at or in a school, or at a dwelling containing one or more individuals that endangers their lives or puts them at risk of harm. This offense generally is a Class 4 felony, but the charges can change if death occurs as a result of the shooting or if the shooting is unlawful as opposed to malicious in nature.

Furthermore, Va. Code § 18.2-280 prohibits the willful discharge of a firearm in any street in a city or town, on school grounds, on public property within 1,000 feet of school grounds, or in any public place. This action typically results in Class 1 misdemeanor charges if no bodily injury occurs, but the charges will increase to a Class 6 felony if bodily injury occurs. The charges also increase if the discharge occurred on school grounds or at a public place within 1,000 feet of school grounds. Gun charges can lead to serious penalties, therefore, it is essential for defendants to seek the services of a well-established defense attorney.

Build a Strong Defense with a Springfield Gun Attorney

When facing any type of gun charges, the potential penalties can be severe. Getting legal advice from a Springfield gun lawyer could be essential to your ability to build an effective defense in your case.

Trying to go it alone may damage your case and your chances for a successful outcome. To put yourself in a better position to fight back against any criminal charges, you may wish to retain legal counsel right away.