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Gun Crime Lawyer Liberty, MO

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Last Updated: December 5, 2024

Gun crime lawyer in Liberty, MO. While Missouri gun laws are relatively permissive, the state still imposes strict penalties for violations. It is crucial to know that even if you have legally obtained a firearm, there are specific circumstances where its use or even possession may be a crime in Liberty, MO. Understanding these intricacies of Missouri’s gun laws can be key to protecting your rights and future.

Facing gun crime charges, such as illegal possession, improper brandishing, or gun use in the commission of a crime in Liberty, MO? An experienced gun crime lawyer can help protect your rights and provide a strong defense in Liberty, MO.

Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation where you can discuss the specifics of your case with an expert Liberty, MO criminal defense attorney. The Combs Waterkotte legal team has over 40 years of experience and has successfully handled more than 10,000 cases just like yours.

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Liberty, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Breaking Down Missouri’s Gun Laws

Missouri recognizes the constitutional right to bear arms, allowing open carry and granting concealed carry permits under specific conditions. However, the state imposes restrictions in several areas:

  • Improper Use: Using a firearm for threats or criminal purposes can lead to significant penalties.
  • Prohibited Locations: Firearms are prohibited in schools, courthouses, and other designated zones unless authorized.
  • Restricted Individuals: Those with felonies, specific domestic violence convictions, or orders of protection are barred from gun ownership or possession.

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Liberty, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Key Facts and Penalties of Missouri Gun Crimes

The skillful and experienced Combs Waterkotte legal team handles a variety of gun crimes in Liberty, MO, including:

Unlawful Use of a Weapon

Missouri laws on unlawful use of a weapon cover several situations in Liberty, MO, such as:

  • Firing a weapon in restricted areas or under the influence of alcohol.
  • Displaying a gun in a threatening or alarming manner.
  • Carrying concealed weapons in Liberty, MO without proper permission.
  • Possessing firearms in places where they are prohibited.
  • Use of a weapon while committing a crime, such as robbery or assault in Liberty, MO.
  • Illegal modifications or accessories.

Possible penalties range in severity from a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000, to a Class A felony, which carries a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of 30 years or life in prison.

Facing unlawful use of a weapon charges in Liberty, MO can lead to serious penalties, including permanently losing your right to carry arms. A skilled Combs Waterkotte gun crime lawyer can help. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

Missouri Revised Statute § 571.070 defines situations in which firearm possession is considered unlawful, including:

  • Felon Possession
  • Possession by Minors
  • Possession by Certain Offenders
  • Federal Firearm Restrictions

Unlawful possession of a firearm is classified as a Class C felony, unless an individual has been convicted of a dangerous felony or has a prior unlawful possession conviction in Liberty, MO, in which case it becomes a Class B felony.

If you’re dealing with these charges, an experienced Liberty, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, scrutinize the evidence, and work to protect your future.

Armed Criminal Action

Armed criminal action in Liberty, MO involves using, displaying, or possessing a weapon during the commission of a felony. This charge is not independent but serves as an enhancement to the underlying felony, such as robbery, drug trafficking, assault, or burglary. For instance, committing assault with a weapon could lead to both assault and armed criminal action charges.

Armed criminal action in Liberty, 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:

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.

This offense can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. If you’re charged with this crime, an experienced Combs Waterkotte Liberty, MO gun crime lawyer can assess your case, protect your legal rights, and fight for a favorable result. Call (314) 900-HELP right now 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 obliterated. The offense of possession of a defaced firearm is taken seriously, as these weapons are often linked to crimes in Liberty, MO. Under Missouri law, this offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor.

Liberty, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Understanding Federal Gun Crimes in Missouri

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 Liberty, MO when:

  • Firearms are involved in crimes 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.

Liberty, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Defending Against Gun Crimes in Missouri With Combs Waterkotte

The Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorneys in Liberty, MO, employ several effective strategies to counter gun crime charges. Common defenses include:

  • Lack of Intent or Awareness
    For a conviction in Liberty, MO, prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly. We might argue that you were unaware of the firearm’s presence or lacked intent to commit a crime.
  • Illegal Search & Seizure
    The Fourth Amendment protects against unlawful searches and seizures. If Liberty, MO law enforcement obtained evidence, such as a gun, through illegal stops, frisks, or searches of your vehicle or property, we can seek to suppress that evidence.
  • 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 Liberty, MO were lawful and justified.

If you are accused of a gun crime in the Liberty, MO area and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just selecting the ideal gun crime lawyer in Liberty, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. Along with expert criminal defense from our experienced gun crime lawyers, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Liberty and beyond:

Gun Crime Lawyer | Liberty, MO Criminal Defense | Gun Crime Law Firm

Liberty, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Reasons to Hire a Combs Waterkotte Gun Crime Lawyer

A conviction for a gun crime in Liberty, MO can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Liberty, MO ensures your case is handled with expertise, compassion, and diligence. Combs Waterkotte provides:

  • Comprehensive Case Analysis: Your attorney will meticulously review all evidence, including witness statements and police reports, to identify all weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
  • Tailored Legal Strategy: Using in-depth knowledge of Liberty, MO, state, and federal gun laws, we create a defense strategy specifically suited to your case.
  • Personable Negotiation Skills: Skilled negotiation can often result in reduced charges, lighter sentencing, or alternative sentencing like probation.
  • Assertive Trial Representation: If your Liberty, MO case proceeds to court, our experienced gun crime lawyers will fight vigorously to defend your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Facing a Gun Crime in Liberty, MO? Call an Expert Gun Crime Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte Today

If you’re facing gun crime charges in Liberty, MO, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you consult a knowledgeable gun crime lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong defense and securing the best possible outcome. Take proactive steps to protect your future with the guidance of experienced legal professionals.

Contact Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP right away or connect with us online for a free case review with a Liberty, MO gun crime lawyer.

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