Criminal Defense
Weapons Charges
The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution to guarantee Americans have the right to bear arms. Both federal and state governments place reasonable restrictions on this right to protect individuals from harm. Any violation of Florida weapon laws can result in a first-degree misdemeanor or even a third-degree felony. A weapons charges defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale can explain your charges to you and represent you in all legal proceedings. At Lowry Legal, we aggressively represent defendants who are charged with these weapons violations. We can offer our clients the best legal advice for fighting their gun charges in Florida.
Gun Permit Violations
To receive a concealed weapons permit, applicants must apply to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services department and meet certain requirements. This permit allows a Florida resident to carry a concealed handgun, tear-gas gun, automatic weapon, knife, or billy club. Permit holders are generally not allowed to carry weapons in the open except when camping, target shooting, hunting, or fishing. These concealed weapons are also prohibited in all courthouses, police stations, bars, polling places, schools, or airports.
Using a Weapon to Commit a Crime
Carrying a weapon while committing a crime will increase the penalties. Florida’s 10-20-life law requires that courts impose a mandatory sentence of ten years if certain felonies were committed (serious offenses) while carrying a firearm. 15 years is mandatory if the firearm used in the crime was a semiautomatic. 20 years in prison is mandatory if the accused fired the gun and 25 to life in prison if they fired the gun and struck someone.
Possible Weapon Charge Defenses in Fort Lauderdale
We at Lowry Legal understand weapon laws. Some possible weapon charges defenses include the use of deadly force to defend yourself, lack of a deadly weapon where we can prove the weapon wasn’t deadly and legal or lack of intent meaning that your intent was beyond your actual action. Our criminal defense attorneys can look through evidence to protect your rights. A thorough investigation where we gather all evidence needed to prove your case is important and we are experienced at getting this done successfully for our clients in and around Fort Lauderdale.
To protect your rights in a gun-related criminal prosecution situation, call us to schedule a free consultation at (954) 908-6222. Your initial consultation is free, and our attorneys can accommodate your schedule. During this important phone call, we will discuss your case, your criminal past and answer any questions you may have about your charges or the legal process ahead. Let’s get started on strategizing your next steps. Allow us to protect your rights during this challenging time.