Weapons Charges Attorney in Columbia, MO

A weapons charge comes with severe repercussions, including extensive prison sentences, steep fines, and, in some cases, being prohibited from owning a weapon in the future. This does not begin to deal with the consequences that you will be up against when you are released, with many former convicts facing limited employment and housing opportunities.

Even though many firearm and gun owners are responsible, the State comes down hard on those who violate the law. Even though Missouri is an open-carry state, certain restrictions apply to when you can possess a firearm and when you can use it. If you are facing illegal possession or use, it is time you give our Columbia, MO, weapons charge lawyer at Landon Miller Law a call.

Who is Allowed to Own a Gun in Columbia, MO?

The State of Missouri takes immense pride in a citizen’s right to bear arms. As of 2017, Missouri became a constitutional carry state, allowing gun owners to openly carry or carry a concealed weapon without a permit. Permitless carry is permitted for individuals that are at least 19 years of age and those 18 years of age and older who are actively serving in the military or have been honorably discharged.

Although the State has lifted many gun possession restrictions, the open carry laws only apply to individuals who are constitutionally permitted to carry a gun. Under Missouri and federal statutes, the following persons can be charged with illegal possession of a firearm:

• Underage persons
• Convicted felons (federal and State law impose a lifetime ban)
• Fugitives from justice
• Individuals who are habitually intoxicated or drugged
• Individuals involuntarily committed to a mental health facility

State versus Federal Weapons Charges

If you have violated federal law, then you may find yourself under federal investigation. Federal regulations are governed by the Code of Federal Regulations. Minimum sentencing for a federal conviction imposes higher sentence lengths than for corresponding state-level offenses. The federal agencies that normally investigate federal weapons offenses include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). If you are facing federal weapons charges, it is a must that you seek an experienced attorney in defending cases in federal court.

Are Weapons-Related Offenses Charged with Other Crimes?

Weapons charges are often accompanied by other charges, especially when a firearm was used in the commission of a crime. Common charges that may be charged concurrently with a weapons charge include drug offenses, assault, kidnapping, murder, and robbery. When a weapon is involved, the type of charge will be enhanced. For instance, stealing someone’s property and causing them injury is charged as robbery in the second degree.

It is a class B felony, which comes with a statutory sentencing of five to 15 years. However, if you were armed with a deadly weapon, the charge is elevated to robbery in the first degree (a class A felony), also known as armed robbery. If convicted, you will be sentenced to 10 to 30 years in prison.

A Columbia, MO, Weapons Charges Lawyer Seeking Justice

A weapons charge comes with severe penalties, making it essential that you seek qualified representation. At Landon Miller Law, our Columbia, MO, weapons charges attorney has made it his life mission to fight for the little guy. With experience working on both sides of the courtroom, Attorney Landon Miller is familiar with prosecution strategy and what steps need to be taken to build a successful defense. To learn more or arrange your initial consultation, we can be reached online or by calling (573) 658-1919 at your earliest convenience.