Federal Weapons Charges In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is no stranger to federal weapons charges, especially in larger cities like Philadelphia. It is essential to understand these different firearm charges and how a criminal lawyer can help with them.
What Makes A Weapons Charge Federal?
If a weapons charge becomes federal this means that the weapons were transported through at least two states and cannot be tried at the state level. When it is unable to be tried at the state level, it must go through the federal court system, making the charges federal. If a person is found guilty of federal charges, they will need to serve time in federal prison.
Types of Federal Weapons Charges
Below are the most common federal weapons charges.
- Carrying a firearm without a license
- Possession of a firearm by someone prohibited to carry such weapons
- Carrying an illegal firearm or Prohibitive Offense Weapon
- Intend to sell or distribute numerous firearms
To have a concealed weapon in most states, you must have a license to carry it. Some individuals are not permitted to have a firearm under any circumstance due to previous charges and sentences. If you are found in possession of a firearm that you are not legally able to have or do not have a license for, then you could face federal charges.
What Type of Charges Can You Face?
When you are faced with federal weapons charges, the type of charges you face will vary based on the type of charge and how many offenses you had before the charge. They can range in the following:
- Misdemeanor of the First Degree
- Felony 3
- Felony 2
- Felony 1
The maximum sentencing varies depending on the charge: five years for the misdemeanor, seven years for felony 3, ten years for felony 2, and twenty years for felony 1. This doesn’t mean each charge will carry the maximum sentencing, but if you have multiple charges in the same case, those years could add up to more than you expected.
Choose A Legal Team With Knowledge and Experience
Before hiring a lawyer for your case, you need to make sure that the lawyer you hire knows federal and state weapons charges. They need to also be fully aware of their rights as a citizen when it comes to the Second Amendment. Also, choose a lawyer that has experience representing clients with federal weapons charges and understands how to present your case and best represent you to the jury.
Contact Philadelphia Criminal Law Today
If you are looking for a Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney to represent you or a loved one on federal weapons charges, contact our office today for more information and a consultation.
