To own or carry a firearm in the state of Connecticut, residents must comply with a stringent list of regulations, including obtaining the required permits and training. Furthermore, certain weapons like assault rifles are banned for personal use; there are also limitations on the permissible magazine sizes for firearms.

When you face gun-related charges, legal representation is crucial. A Meriden gun lawyer will understand the nuances of your specific case and tailor a defense to the situation. Let the lawyers at Ruane Attorneys help you protect your rights and future.

Overview of Firearm Charges in Meriden

A person could sometimes face gun charges even if they obtained the firearm legally. For example, a person who lets their permit to carry a firearm in public lapse or carries a firearm in public without obtaining the proper permit could face serious legal consequences.

Other firearm-related charges our local attorneys can help defend include:

• Carrying a firearm onto prohibited premises
• Negligent storage of a firearm
• Unlawful discharge of a firearm
• Owning a firearm without a permit to do so
• Selling firearms without a license
• Gun trafficking

Individuals previously convicted of felony offenses are barred from owning firearms and can face serious penalties if they are found in possession of one.

Carrying a gun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also strictly forbidden by Connecticut law. Firearm charges can also result from accusations that someone used a gun while committing another crime. For example, there are separate classes of offenses for crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, sexual assault, and burglary when these acts involve using a firearm.

Penalties for Gun-Related Charges

Our lawyers in Meriden could help defend both misdemeanor and felony gun charges. An example of a misdemeanor gun charge would be carrying a firearm under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Because this offense is categorized as a Class B misdemeanor, a conviction could lead to up to half a year in jail plus a fine of up to $1,000.

On the other hand, consider the charge of criminal possession of a firearm, such as when a person with a felony conviction is found in possession of a gun. This charge is a Class C felony. In Connecticut, a Class C felony carries consequences, including up to a decade in prison plus a financial penalty of up to $10,000.

If a person allegedly uses a firearm while carrying out another crime, they can be charged for the underlying crime as well as the gun-related offense. For example, suppose someone uses a gun while committing a crime classified as a Class A, B, or C felony. Not only will they face the penalties attached to those felony classes for the underlying crime (i.e., a Class A felony carries a minimum prison term of 10 to 25 years), but the law tacks on another mandatory five years of incarceration due to the involvement of a firearm. Working with a gun attorney in Meriden is critical when the stakes are this high.

Contact a Meriden Gun Attorney Immediately

A Meriden gun lawyer understands what is on the line in your case and knows how to construct a thorough defense against the charges. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys could explain your legal options for pursuing a positive outcome and preventing severe penalties. We are here to help you take the best path forward.

Whether your case requires fierce courtroom tactics or sharp negotiation skills, a defense attorney will be an essential ally. Call our firm now to consult with a lawyer about your case.