Weapons Charges Defense Attorney In Winston-Salem
While all criminal charges carry potentially serious consequences, when a weapon is allegedly involved the stakes increase substantially. A lengthy prison sentence is a very real possibility and a conviction may mean that you will lose your right to possess firearms. That is why it is important to protect your rights with the help an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
At The Law Offices of Karen D. Gerber, PLLC in Winston-Salem, I can help you build a strong defense against both state and federal weapons charges. To find out how I can help you, call 336-725-6611.
I Handle All Types Of Criminal Charges Involving Weapons
I can help defend you against a wide range of criminal charges, including:
- Illegal possession of a firearm
- Illegal carrying of a concealed weapon
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony
- Possession of a weapon with intent to commit a crime
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm
- Possession of illegal firearms and accessories, such as silencers and sawed-off shotguns
Remember, in the eyes of the law, a weapon is not limited to a gun. Knives, bats, chains and any other object that may be used to threaten or inflict harm can result in a weapons charge and the possibility of a mandatory minimum prison term. We will attack the prosecution’s evidence at every turn in an effort to build the strongest possible defense and minimize the consequences.
North Carolina Penalties For Weapon Charges
The potential consequences can vary depending on the exact nature of your charges, the type of weapon or weapons involved, your criminal history and any other mitigating or aggravating factors the court may consider. Possible penalties can include:
- Probation and community service: These are the lightest possible sentences and can be either supervised or unsupervised.
- Incarceration: Even a minor misdemeanor conviction can result in 1-120 days in jail, while a felony conviction can result in anywhere from a year to many years in prison.
- Fines: You may be required to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars in fines.
- Criminal history: Your criminal history can limit your housing, education and employment opportunities and affect your professional licensing and voting rights.
- Firearm rights: You may no longer have the right to own firearms in the future.
Because North Carolina has very complicated sentencing rules upon conviction, you need an attorney to help you understand what you are facing so that you can make informed decisions.
Building A Strong Defense Against Weapon Charges In North Carolina
A strong defense against weapon charges in North Carolina is essential to mitigating penalties. I tailor a unique defense strategy for every client. A few key elements of a strong defense may include:
- Challenging the validity of the evidence against you, including security footage and the memories of witnesses
- Challenging the procedures used in the case, especially if there was a lack of probable cause involved or an illegal search and seizure
- Proving lack of intent – a defense may be built around evidence that you had no intention to violate the law
- Self-defense – if you were acting in defense of your person or property or defending another, that could play a significant role
In many cases, weapons charges can be negotiated down or dismissed altogether with the right approach.
Contact My Law Firm In North Carolina For A Free Consultation
If you are facing criminal weapons charges, get legal representation from a board-certified criminal defense specialist, a distinction held by only a small percentage of lawyers in North Carolina. Call 336-725-6611 or contact me online to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
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