If you or a loved one is facing gun charges in Philadelphia, our Philadelphia gun charge defense lawyers are here to help. With experience defending clients in Pennsylvania, we are well-positioned to represent you for the following reasons:
- We are local criminal defense attorneys with experience in defending firearms possession cases.
- We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you avoid a conviction, if possible.
- We understand the courts and have a good standing with judges and prosecutors.
- We have the resources and experience to develop mitigation and defense strategies which we use to fight for reductions in your charges.
- Prosecutors know we are not afraid to challenge cases in court.
If convicted, illegal firearm charges range from a third-degree felony up to a felony of the first degree resulting in steep fines and hefty prison sentences, which can affect you and your family’s future for years to come. We want to help you avoid that.
When is it Illegal to Possess a Firearm in Philadelphia?
According to Pennsylvania State Police, “Any person who carries a firearm concealed on or about his person except in his place of abode or fixed place of business without a valid and lawfully issued license commits a felony of the third degree.” In short, you need a license to own a firearm in Philadelphia.
However, people can unwittingly find themselves charged with firearm violations because they are unaware of our state’s complex gun laws. Here are a few reasons why:
- People who move to Philadelphia from another state may be unaware they must apply for a permit when they switch to their new residence. A gun license from another state is not valid.
- Unlike the rest of Pennsylvania, where it is legal to carry a weapon openly, firearms must be kept concealed on your person in Philadelphia. In addition, they must not be carried in certain areas, such as public streets or public property unless you are licensed or exempt from licensing.
- Federal law prohibits some people from owning firearms, such as people with specific criminal records or those with a history of mental illness and substance abuse. You can read the full list of firearm restrictions on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives website.
- Sportsman’s firearm permits are not a license to carry a concealed firearm.
While the charges will depend upon the severity of the offense, the penalties can be steep. Because we are local, our illegal firearm possession defense attorneys are deeply familiar with the gun laws that apply solely in Philadelphia and have experience getting charges dropped, downgraded, or beaten in court.
For a free legal consultation with a illegal firearm possession defense lawyer serving Philadelphia, call 215.515.3360
Penalties for Possession of an Illegal Firearm in Philadelphia
Due to the complexity of federal, state, and local gun laws, it is beneficial to seek legal advice as soon as possible because criminal charges related to illegal firearm possession carry significant penalties. Here are a few examples:
- Carrying a firearm in public in Philadelphia (unless licensed to do so or exempt from licensing) is a first-degree misdemeanor with a maximum prison term of five years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
- Firearms carried without a license can result in a third-degree felony with a maximum jail sentence of seven years and a fine of $15,000.
- Charges for people barred from possessing a firearm range from a third-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree felony carrying a 20-year maximum sentence and a fine of $25,000.
A Conviction Can Jeopardize Your Future
Additionally, the collateral fallout from a conviction can impact many areas of your life. Having a criminal record can cause issues related to the following:
- Employment and finding work
- Acquiring professional licenses for specific occupations
- Mental well-being and self-esteem
- Interpersonal relationships
- Losing access to your children
- Financial problems supporting your family and staying out of debt
- Securing loans or other types of credit
- Renting properties or qualifying for a mortgage
- Accessing further education
Remember, anything you say can be used against you. Therefore, it can be beneficial to seek legal representation to avoid making costly mistakes. We are here to make sure the charges are not disproportionate to your actions and to protect your rights.
What Our Clients Say
Our Philadelphia criminal defense lawyers protect your future by using our knowledge and experience to pursue a positive outcome. We are fast to act, and you can contact us anytime. We feel our prior clients are best positioned to vouch for our skills and ability. As such, here is one testimony of our success in this area:
“Marni Jo Snyder was my criminal defense lawyer. She successfully presented my case and won. Due to her zealous advocacy I was rightfully found not guilty. She was dependable and trustworthy. I always received very timely responses from her in correspondence. Marni Jo Snyder is down-to-earth and is always approachable. I would suggest anyone seeking a criminal defense attorney to contact her.”—Gina A.
Case Results
We have experience getting positive results for gun charge clients in Pennsylvania. To give you an idea of our knowledge and experience, here are some examples of reductions and dismissals we’ve been able to achieve:
- No jail time for J.R.’s federal firearms charge
- Not guilty verdict for R.W.’s carrying a firearm without a license charge
Our team will put our resources and passion behind your case, too.
Philadelphia Illegal Firearm Possession Defense Lawyer 215.515.3360
Secure Your Illegal Firearm Attorneys to Get Your Case on the Right Track
We advocate for clients across the state of Pennsylvania. We are ready to help you, too. To learn more about what we can do for you, call the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC for a free consultation which provides the following benefits:
- No fees for our initial case evaluation; our contact number is also toll-free
- You will find out if and how we can help
- You are under no obligation after the consultation
We will fight to protect your rights from the moment you hire us and will pursue any weaknesses we find in the prosecution’s case against you. From the beginning to the end of your case, we will fight for a positive outcome and a chance at a better future.
