While the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution gives citizens the right to bear arms, i.e., own guns, there are many federal regulations and state laws that apply to gun ownership. There are many laws in place that criminalize certain gun activity, and an individual who is caught by law enforcement engaging in illegal gun activity could face severe punishment. There are many times when a criminal defendant finds him or herself facing gun charges in Massachusetts. Anyone who has been charged with a gun offense or other weapons offense needs to consult with an experienced Massachusetts criminal defense lawyer immediately.
There are all sorts of reasons why people in Massachusetts want to have a gun. Some people think a gun will provide a sense of protection, or they like hunting or collecting guns. Others may have more nefarious purposes, such as for use in the commission of a crime. Whatever the case may be, no one who is facing gun charges should deal with their criminal defense alone. Consult with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer.
Typical Scenarios that Result in Gun Charges
Massachusetts has strict laws concerning the possession and sale of firearms. Below are just a few examples of common scenarios that wind up putting someone behind bars for being in possession of a gun:
- Possession of guns that are illegal under the law, such as a machine gun or a sawed off shotgun, or a large capacity weapon.
- Carrying a rifle or shotgun in public, such as along a public street, sidewalk or other public area.
- Having a firearm in your possession without a permit, such as transporting the gun in your vehicle without your permit.
- Possession of a gun during the commission of a felony leads to charges for the felony and additional charges for having the gun.
- Possession of a gun during a minor violation of the law can lead to upgraded charges, i.e., an aggravated offense due to the involvement of the gun.
It does not matter if the gun is loaded or not, nor does it matter whether you are a non-violent offender or a career criminal. If you are illegally in possession of a gun, transporting a gun, or involved in the sale of a gun, law enforcement will not hesitate to charge you with a gun offense.
Contact a Massachusetts Criminal Defense Attorney
Since guns have the potential to be deadly if misused, it is obvious why Massachusetts law enforcement and the courts take gun offenses so seriously.