In response to – some would say overreaction to – high profile shootings around the country, New York has tightened its gun laws and increased its penalties substantially in the last few years.
This has resulted in many cases of law abiding gun owners getting caught up in the criminal justice system and facing significant penalties.
Possession of an unlicensed or unregistered firearm, whether it is loaded or not, and whether it is stored in a case or not, is a Class E Felony, and if convicted, you may face up to four years in state prison.
The law only requires that the weapon be operable, and it isn’t necessary for you to be carrying it on your body.
If the weapon is safely stored in your car, for instance, you can be charged under the constructive possession theory.
New York’s approach to firearms possession has caused serious problems for gun owners, and if you’ve been arrested on a firearms charge, you need capable, experienced criminal defense help that can carefully examine the details of your case and work with you to find the best solution.
Sometimes police stops or searches can be called into question.
Other times, the assertion that a firearm was operable may be questionable at best.
Don’t take chances when you’re looking at consequences as serious as a felony record and years in jail.
Call (212) 577-6677 and talk to experienced NYC criminal defense attorneys right away.
