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Gun Crime Lawyer Meramec Township, MO

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Last Updated: December 5, 2024

Gun crime lawyer in Meramec Township, MO. Missouri’s relatively relaxed stance on firearms does not mean violations are taken lightly. Owning a firearm legally in Meramec Township, 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 Meramec Township, MO – whether for unlawful possession, displaying a firearm, or using a gun during another offense – hiring a skilled gun crime lawyer in Meramec Township is your first step toward protecting your freedom.

Don’t wait – call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a no-obligation, confidential consultation. Work with an expert criminal defense attorney who has the expertise to help in Meramec Township, MO. The Combs Waterkotte has more than 40 years of experience and has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.

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Meramec Township, 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:

  • Unlawful 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.

Gun Crime Lawyer in Meramec Township, MO | Criminal Defense Attorney | Combs Waterkotte

Meramec Township, 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 Meramec Township, MO, including:

Unlawful Use of a Weapon

Unlawful use of a weapon refers to a range of offenses involving firearms in Meramec Township, MO. These include:

  • Discharging a firearm in certain areas, including firing a gun while intoxicated.
  • Displaying a gun in a threatening or alarming manner.
  • Carrying a concealed weapon in or around Meramec Township, MO without proper permission.
  • Possessing a firearm in Meramec Township, MO prohibited areas.
  • Using a firearm in the commission of a criminal act, such as robbery or assault in Meramec Township, MO.
  • Making illegal alterations or attachments to firearms.

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 Meramec Township, 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 defines situations in which firearm possession is considered unlawful, including:

  • Possession by a Felon
  • Possession by Minors
  • Possession by Certain Offenders
  • Federal Firearm 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 Meramec Township, MO unlawful possession of a firearm in which case it’s a Class B felony.

If you’re dealing with charges, a qualified Meramec Township, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, scrutinize the evidence, and fight to protect your freedom.

Armed Criminal Action

Armed criminal action in Meramec Township, MO involves using, displaying, or possessing a weapon during the commission of a felony. This charge enhances the severity of the primary felony, such as robbery, drug trafficking, assault, or burglary. For instance, someone committing a burglary while armed could face both robbery and armed criminal action charges.

Armed criminal action is treated as a separate felony offense in Meramec Township, MO, with mandatory minimum sentence requirements, including 3 years for a first offense, 5 years for a second offense, and 10 years for a third offense. These complex charges and sentences make it crucial to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side who can:

  • Thoroughly examine the facts and evidence in your case.
  • Negotiate to mitigate or dismiss armed criminal action enhancements.
  • Develop a strong defense strategy tailored precisely to your situation in Meramec Township, 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.

An unlawful transfer of weapons charge is a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E felony, depending on the severity of the case. If you’re charged with this crime, an experienced Combs Waterkotte Meramec Township, 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

Possessing a firearm with defaced markings, such as removed or altered serial numbers, is a criminal offense. Authorities in Meramec Township, MO consider possession of a defaced firearm a serious matter due to its association with criminal activity, including stolen weapons. This offense is categorized as a Class B misdemeanor.

Meramec Township, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Facing 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 Meramec Township, MO when:

  • The crime involves crossing state lines.
  • Weapons are used in federal offenses like drug smuggling, acts of terrorism, or violent interstate offenses.
  • Cases include serious factors such as organized crime affiliations or large-scale arms trafficking.

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

Here are a few common defenses for gun crimes the Combs Waterkotte Meramec Township, MO criminal defense lawyers use against charges:

  • Lack of Intent or Awareness
    For many gun crimes in Meramec Township, 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 Meramec Township, 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 Meramec Township, MO were lawful and justified.

When you’re facing gun crime charges in or around Meramec Township, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just choosing a top-rated gun crime lawyer in Meramec Township, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable gun crime attorneys, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Meramec Township, MO residents:

Gun Crime Lawyer | Meramec Township, MO Criminal Defense | Gun Crime Law Firm

Meramec Township, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Why Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer in Missouri?

A conviction for a gun crime in Meramec Township, MO can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Meramec Township, 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 case.
  • Tailored Legal Strategy: Our knowledgeable lawyers understand Meramec Township, MO, Missouri, and federal gun laws, and can craft a defense tailored to your unique circumstances.
  • Personable Negotiation Skills: Our lawyers are skilled at negotiating with prosecutors to secure reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal when possible.
  • Skilled Courtroom Representation: If trial is necessary for your Meramec Township, MO case, we will vigorously represent you to protect your freedom and strive for a favorable outcome.

Charged With a Gun Crime in Meramec Township, MO? Consult a Skilled Gun Crime Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte

If you’re facing gun crime charges in Meramec Township, MO, 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.

Call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP right away or reach out online to schedule a free case review with a Meramec Township, MO gun crime lawyer.

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