Boston Criminal Lawyer Blog
In Massachusetts, getting charged with a firearms or weapons offense is serious business. MA is exceedingly tough when it comes to gun laws. This is for obvious reasons; misuse of guns can quickly and easily lead to serious injuries and death. If you have been charged with any type of firearms or weapons offense, it is in your best interest to contact a MA criminal defense attorney immediately. Don’t take these charges lightly; this is not the time to hire a cut-rate lawyer or attempt to represent yourself.
Gun Controversy
Gun laws have been surrounded by controversy for years, and the issue isn’t likely to go away anytime soon. The 2nd Amendment does, indeed, guarantee the right to bear arms, but individual states can regulate use. Massachusetts criminalizes many weapons-related actions, from carrying weapons deemed excessively dangerous to using a silencer. Read on for more information about weapons laws and how they can impact you.
What is a “Dangerous” Weapon?
You can be charged with carrying a dangerous weapon for multiple reasons. Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, you can end up behind bars for more than two-and-a-half years if you’re convicted of this offense. You may be facing these charges for:
- Possession of a machine gun
- Possession of a sawed-off shotgun
- Possession of brass knuckles, throwing stars, or nunchucks
- Having any type of firearm in your vehicle without the proper permit
Silencers
Silencers muffle the sound of a gunshot. In MA, it is illegal to sell, use, or possess a silencer. If you are found in violation of this law, you may be facing felony charges.
Carrying a Loaded Gun While Intoxicated
It is a felony to carry a loaded firearm while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or narcotics. If you are facing charges for this type of offense, contact a Boston gun crimes lawyer today.
Carrying a Shotgun or Rifle on Public Grounds
If you are caught carrying one of these types of firearms on public grounds, such as a sidewalk or street, you can face up to two years in prison, if it’s loaded. If the weapon happens to be a loaded “large capacity weapon”, which refers to a semiautomatic weapon with a capacity for multiple rounds, you may be looking at a sentence of up to 10 years. If it’s unloaded, you may be let off with a fine.
Committing a Felony While in Possession of a Firearm
Committing a felony is bad. Committing a felony while you have a gun in your pocket is even worse. For a first offense, you will likely receive a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. Second and subsequent offenses carry a minimum of 20 years in prison. And this is in addition to penalties associated with the underlying felony. Bottom line – don’t commit a felony, and definitely don’t commit a felony while carrying a gun.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Boston’s Premier Criminal Defense Law Firm
If you’ve been charged with a crime, the skilled defense team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have extensive experience in all areas of the law, from OUI to gun crimes. Our knowledgeable attorneys will analyze the details of your case before moving forward. We will position you for the best possible outcome and ensure that you fully understand your rights and options. In some cases, alternative sentencing options are available. It is our goal to keep you out of prison and to reduce the financial impact of potential fines. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we have an impressive track record of getting clients’ charges reduced, or even dismissed entirely. If you’ve been charged with a firearms or weapons offense, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
