New Britain Gun Lawyer

There are many restrictions on the right to bear arms. Local gun laws limit who may possess firearms and prohibit certain types of weapons. Even if you legally possess a gun, there are restrictions on how you may use it or where you may bring it.

Additionally, the alleged use of a firearm during the commission of a crime is a serious matter. The mere presence of a weapon at a crime scene can make a relatively minor offense much more severe, and state law applies an additional prison sentence to certain felonies where a firearm was present.

No matter what type of weapons-related charges you face, talk to a New Britain gun lawyer today. A dedicated attorney could explain the state’s gun laws and develop a defense to protect your rights and future.

Illegal Possession of Firearms

Some gun cases involve the supposedly illegal possession of firearms. Under Connecticut General Statute § 53a-217, it is illegal for any person with a felony conviction on their criminal record to possess any type of firearm or ammunition. Convictions here are Class C felonies.

Types of Illegal Weapons in New Britain

While most people will not fit into the category described above, they may still face allegations of the illegal possession of a firearm based upon the type of weapon involved. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-211 makes certain types of guns illegal, including sawed-off shotguns or silencers. Those who face allegations of unlawful firearms possession should work with a local gun attorney to protect their rights.

Guns as Aggravating Factors in Criminal Cases

The simple illegal possession of a firearm is a serious offense. However, allegations that a person has used a gun in an illegal way can be even more severe. This could involve a person having a firearm in their possession while allegedly committing another crime.

The presence of a gun makes any criminal charges much more serious. One example is burglary in the third degree with a firearm, as defined under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-103a. While a simple burglary in the third degree is a Class D felony with no sentencing mandates, the presence of a firearm makes the offense a Class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum prison term.

The use of a firearm during the commission of many felonies could also be classified as a separate criminal offense under state law. According to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-216, having a firearm in one’s possession while committing any other Class A, B, or C felony brings a five-year prison sentence in addition to any penalty for the core charge. When the potential consequences are this severe, it is crucial for defendants to consult a New Britain attorney who could tirelessly defend against the gun charges.

Contact a New Britain Firearms Lawyer Today

State gun laws aim to severely punish people who illegally possess or use firearms. People who cannot legally possess a gun because of a prior felony conviction or mental health concerns could face lengthy prison sentences upon conviction. There are also severe potential consequences for charges related to possessing illegal firearms or using a gun in the commission of a crime.

Regardless of what specific charges you face, a New Britain gun lawyer is ready to defend your rights through your criminal case. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys could work to show that your possession of a gun was legal under state law and create reasonable doubt concerning the alleged illegal use of a gun. Give our firm a call today to discuss your situation.