Connecticut imposes harsh restrictions on firearm owners compared to many other states. Even if you are an otherwise law-abiding and responsible citizen, a single conviction for a breach of Connecticut’s gun laws could have serious repercussions for your future. You could face jail time and be prohibited from ever legally owning firearms again.

Guidance from the legal team at Ruane Attorneys can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case. A Danbury gun lawyer at our firm can explain the charges against you, build a comprehensive defense, and proactively protect your best interests. Whether this is your first time facing criminal charges or you have been convicted before, we are here to support and represent you.

What Qualifies as Unlawful Gun Possession?

According to Connecticut General Statute §53a-217, anyone who meets any of the following criteria is prohibited by law from possessing any firearm, ammunition, or electronic defense weapon in the state of Connecticut:

• Previously convicted of any felony offense
• Convicted of misdemeanor drug possession under G.S. §21a-279 committed on or after October 1, 2015
• Convicted of misdemeanor criminally negligent homicide, third-degree assault, second-degree threatening, first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree unlawful restraint, riot, inciting to riot, or second-degree stalking committed on or after October 1, 2013, or in the 20 years prior
• Found not guilty of a criminal offense because of insanity within the past 20 years
• Currently subject to any court-issued restraining or protective order
• Recently confined either involuntarily or voluntarily in a psychiatric facility
• Currently subject to a firearms seizure order
• Prohibited by federal law from purchasing, possessing, or transporting firearms for any other reason

Possessing a firearm in violation of this section of state law is a Class C felony, which means a first-time offender could face between one and ten years in prison and a $10,000 maximum fine. As our Danbury attorneys could further explain, the Penal Code also restricts lawful gun owners from carrying firearms onto certain types of property. For example, C.G.S. §53a-217b makes unlawful possession of a weapon on school grounds a Class D felony.

Dealing with Other Gun Charges in Danbury

Another common type of gun-related criminal charge involves allegations of using or threatening the use of a firearm during the commission of another felony offense. With relatively few exceptions, C.G.S. §53a-216 categorizes this offense as a Class D felony punishable by a mandatory minimum five-year prison term.

Even failing to properly store and secure a lawfully owned firearm can result in felony charges under C.G.S. §53a-217a if the defendant’s irresponsible actions directly lead to a minor obtaining the gun and causing injury or death to themselves or another. Our local gun defense lawyers could provide more information about the best approach to a specific allegation during a private initial meeting.

Contact a Danbury Gun Attorney Today

Connecticut law enforcement authorities take criminal charges involving firearms extremely seriously, and courts tend to prosecute them harshly. Trying to handle your charge without support from legal counsel is likely to end in an unfavorable case result.

A conversation with a Danbury gun lawyer could clarify your rights and legal options for defending your case. Call our firm today to schedule a consultation with the legal team at Ruane Attorneys.