It is scary to face a gun and weapons charge alone. Fortunately, legal help is available. Meet with a gun and weapons crime defense lawyer in Pima. Next, your attorney will explain your legal options and what to do to dispute the prosecution’s case.
At Suzuki Law Offices, we have been protecting the rights of our clients for more than 30 years. Our team includes former prosecutors who will not settle for inferior case results. Allow us to help you deal with the aftermath of a gun or weapons arrest. Discuss your case with a Pima violent crimes lawyer from our team.
Why It Is in Your Best Interests to Hire a Lawyer to Help You with Your Gun and Weapons Case in Pima
The criminal justice system offers no guarantees. Just because you believe your gun and weapons charge will be dropped does not mean this will happen. If a prosecutor commits substantial time and resources to your case, you are likely to be convicted. Once this happens, you will have to face the consequences of your conviction for the rest of your life.
A gun and weapons crime defense attorney in Pima is not interested in judging you. Rather, they want to be your legal advocate and representative. Your Pima criminal defense lawyer will assist you with your legal matters. They can prepare an argument that may resonate with the court. Alternatively, they may pursue a plea deal on your behalf.
Suzuki Law Offices can teach you about the legal process that follows a gun and weapons arrest. We can answer questions you have about what a deadly weapon is and other legal topics relating to your case. If warranted, we can prepare a legal defense that could help you avoid a conviction. Contact us today for more information.
Reasons You Can Be Charged with a Gun or Weapons Crime
According to Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-3102, the police can arrest you if you violate rules regarding “misconduct involving weapons.” Below are some of the gun and weapons offenses you could face if the police claim you knowingly engage in this type of misconduct:
Possessing a Prohibited Weapon
In Arizona, it is against the law to possess bombs, grenades, and various other types of weapons. On top of that, it is illegal for certain parties to possess certain types of weapons. If someone is charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, they may be subject to felony penalties.
Carrying a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Serious Offense
If someone has a deadly weapon with them as they commit a serious offense, they may receive a gun or weapons charge. A serious offense is defined in alignment with ARS 13-706. Murder and aggravated assault are two examples of serious offenses in Arizona.
Failing to Accurately Answer Law Enforcement’s Questions About a Concealed Deadly Weapon
Based on the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent if the police question you about a concealed deadly weapon. However, if police officers ask you about this topic and you provide them with inaccurate information, you can be charged with a gun or weapons crime.
Your Pima gun and weapons crime defense lawyer looks at why you were charged and the factors surrounding your arrest. They will address frequently asked questions and any other questions you may have about your charge and the penalties associated with it.
Penalties If You are Convicted of a Gun or Weapons Crime
Many gun and weapons crimes carry mandatory prison sentences. Your attorney will describe the ramifications of a criminal conviction. Penalties you could receive if you are convicted of a gun or weapons crime include:
- A prison sentence of at least 1 year
- A fine of up to $150,000
- Revocation of your driver’s license
Outside of these penalties, there are collateral consequences that come with a gun or weapons conviction. These consequences can include restricted access to housing and employment opportunities, the loss of the right to vote, and international travel limitations.
How to Defend Against a Gun and Weapons Charge
Receiving a gun and weapons charge may make you believe that the court will automatically convict you. Thankfully, this is not the case. Your lawyer will detail your legal rights and how to fight back against the prosecution. They may utilize any of the following legal defenses to disprove a prosecutor’s argument:
Lack of Possession
Your attorney can provide the court with information about how a gun or weapon was in your presence, but that you did not possess it. For example, you borrow a friend’s car, the police pull you over, and you are arrested because there is an illegal weapon in the trunk. In this instance, your lawyer can highlight that you were unaware of the weapon and that it was not yours.
Lack of Intent
Before the court can convict you of a gun or weapons crime, the prosecution must prove that you intended to commit an illegal act. Your lawyer can raise a reasonable doubt about the intent of your actions at the time you were arrested. If the court has concerns about your intent, you can get a favorable ruling.
Self-Defense
You may use a gun or weapon in self-defense since you face an imminent threat. In their argument, your lawyer may share surveillance camera footage of the incident relating to your arrest or other evidence to prove you were doing things to protect yourself from harm.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, your attorney may advise you to plead “no contest” to a criminal charge. On the other hand, they may negotiate a plea deal in which you agree to a lesser charge in exchange for reduced penalties than those associated with your original offense.
Partner With a Pima Gun and Weapons Defense Lawyer Committed to Exceptional Service
Suzuki Law Offices is a trusted Arizona criminal defense law firm. Let a Pima gun and weapons defense attorney from our team handle your case and guide you through the legal process. To get started, request a case consultation with us.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form