Gun crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO. Missouri’s relatively relaxed stance on firearms does not mean violations are taken lightly. Owning a firearm legally in Cape Girardeau, MO doesn’t exempt you from potential charges if the gun is used or possessed under prohibited circumstances. Understanding Missouri’s complex gun laws is vital for avoiding legal trouble.
If you’re charged with a gun crime in Cape Girardeau, MO – whether for unlawful possession, displaying a firearm, or using a gun during another offense – hiring a skilled gun crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau is your first step toward protecting your freedom.
Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or connect online for a free, confidential consultation. Discuss your case with a skilled criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of Cape Girardeau, MO law. With over 40 years of experience and a proven track record of successfully handling 10,000+ cases in Missouri, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help.
Cape Girardeau, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Missouri Gun Laws
While Cape Girardeau, MO upholds the constitutional right to bear arms, allowing open carry and issuing concealed carry permits under defined conditions, there are important restrictions to be aware of:
- Improper Use: Using a firearm for threats or criminal purposes can lead to significant penalties.
- Restricted Zones: Firearms are prohibited in schools, courthouses, and other designated zones unless authorized.
- Prohibited Persons: Those with felonies, specific domestic violence convictions, or orders of protection are barred from gun ownership or possession.
Cape Girardeau, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: A Guide to Missouri Gun Crimes
The skillful and experienced Combs Waterkotte legal team handles a variety of gun crimes in Cape Girardeau, MO, including:
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Missouri laws on unlawful use of a weapon cover several situations in Cape Girardeau, MO, such as:
- Discharging a firearm in certain areas, including firing a gun while intoxicated.
- Displaying a gun in a threatening or alarming manner.
- Carrying concealed weapons in Cape Girardeau, MO without proper permission.
- Possession in prohibited areas in Cape Girardeau, MO.
- Using a firearm in the commission of a criminal act, such as robbery or assault in Cape Girardeau, MO.
- Illegal modifications or accessories.
Penalties for unlawful use of a weapon vary, from a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines, to a Class A felony, which can carry a prison sentence of 10 to life.
If you’re facing unlawful use of a weapon charges in Cape Girardeau, MO, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney by your side. A skilled Combs Waterkotte gun crime lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, your options, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
Missouri Revised Statute § 571.070 outlines the circumstances under which possession of a firearm becomes unlawful, including:
- Felon Possession
- Possession by Minors
- Possession by Certain Offenders
- Federal Restrictions
Unlawful possession of a firearm is a Class C felony, unless the individual has been convicted of a dangerous felony or has a prior unlawful possession conviction in Cape Girardeau, MO, in which case it becomes a Class B felony.
If you’re dealing with charges, an experienced Cape Girardeau, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your rights.
Armed Criminal Action
Armed criminal action in Cape Girardeau, MO involves using, displaying, or possessing a weapon during the commission of a felony. Armed criminal action is not a standalone charge, but an enhancement to a felony, such as robbery, assault, drug trafficking, and burglary. For example, someone committing a burglary while armed could face both robbery and armed criminal action charges.
Armed criminal action in Cape Girardeau, MO is classified as a separate felony with strict mandatory minimum sentences: 3 years for a first offense, 5 years for a second, and 10 years for a third. These penalties highlight the importance of having an experienced criminal defense attorney who can:
- Thoroughly examine the facts and evidence in your case.
- Negotiate for plea agreements to reduce or dismiss the charges.
- Create a customized defense strategy to challenge the charges effectively in Cape Girardeau, MO.
Unlawful Transfer of Weapons
Under Missouri law, the unlawful transfer of weapons occurs when firearms or other weapons are sold, leased, or given to individuals prohibited from owning or possessing them due to legal restrictions.
Depending on the situation, charges for an unlawful transfer of weapons can be a Class A misdemeanor or escalate to a Class E felony. If you’re facing these allegations, securing an experienced Combs Waterkotte gun crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO is essential to pursue the best outcome for your case. Contact us today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Possession of a Defaced Firearm
A defaced firearm is one where the manufacturer’s serial number, or any other identifying markings, have been intentionally altered, removed, or destroyed. The offense of possession of a defaced firearm is taken seriously, as these weapons are often linked to crimes in Cape Girardeau, MO. Under Missouri law, this offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
Cape Girardeau County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Cape Girardeau County and Missouri.
Cape Girardeau, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: What Escalates a State Charge to a Federal Gun Crime?
In Missouri, certain gun crimes can escalate from state to federal charges. Penalties for federal gun crimes are severe and can include mandatory minimum sentences, fines over $250,000, and no-parole terms. Federal gun crimes often arise in Cape Girardeau, MO when:
- The crime involves crossing state lines.
- A gun is involved in federal offenses like drug trafficking, terrorism, or interstate violence.
- Aggravating circumstances, such as ties to organized crime or large-scale firearm distribution or smuggling, are present.
Cape Girardeau, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Challenging Gun Crime Charges in Missouri
Here are a few common defenses for gun crimes the Combs Waterkotte Cape Girardeau, MO criminal defense lawyers use against charges in Missouri:
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent
For many gun crimes in Cape Girardeau, MO, the prosecution must prove that you knowingly committed the offense. Our defense attorneys might argue that you were unaware of the gun’s presence or that you didn’t knowingly violate the law. - Illegal Search & Seizure
Improper conduct by law enforcement, such as illegal searches or seizures, can result in evidence being inadmissible in Cape Girardeau, MO. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, this can form the basis for a strong defense. - Self-Defense
Missouri law supports using force in self-defense if you reasonably believe it was necessary to protect yourself from imminent harm. We’ll present evidence to show your actions in Cape Girardeau, MO were lawful and justified.
If you’re accused of a gun crime in or around Cape Girardeau, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing a top-rated gun crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable gun crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Cape Girardeau and beyond:
- Careless Imprudent Driving Attorneys
- Weapons Crime Attorney
- DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer
- Violent Crime Lawyer
Cape Girardeau, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Reasons to Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer in Missouri
A conviction for a gun crime in Cape Girardeau, MO can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Cape Girardeau, MO ensures your case receives professional attention and a strategic approach. Combs Waterkotte offers:
- Expert Case Analysis: Your attorney will analyze every aspect of your case, from police procedures to forensic evidence, to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
- Tailored Legal Strategy: Our knowledgeable lawyers understand Cape Girardeau, MO, Missouri, and federal gun laws, and can craft a defense tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Negotiation Experise: In many cases, an attorney can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges, probation, or alternative sentencing options.
- Skilled Courtroom Representation: If your Cape Girardeau, MO case proceeds to court, our experienced gun crime lawyers will fight vigorously to defend your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Gun Crime Charges in Cape Girardeau, MO? Let the Combs Waterkotte Experts Help You Defend Your Case Today
If you’re dealing with gun crime allegations in the Cape Girardeau, MO area, don’t delay securing expert legal representation. Acting quickly can significantly improve your ability to build a compelling defense and get the best possible outcome. Take proactive steps to protect your future with the guidance of experienced legal professionals.
Contact Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP or connect with us online to schedule a free case review with a Cape Girardeau, MO gun crime lawyer.