Weapons Charge Attorney Near Me

Weapons Charge Attorney Near Me

If a weapons charge has been levied against you, it is a serious matter, and the first order of business should be reaching out to an experienced weapons charge attorney near you. A conviction can lead to significant penalties and fines that segue into overarching social consequences, which can upend your life as you know it. Having professional legal counsel on your side, however, can make a significant difference. 

Carrying a Concealed Weapon

A common weapons charge in Ohio is carrying a concealed weapon. While some people are licensed to carry concealed weapons in Ohio, most are not. If you are deemed to knowingly have a concealed handgun (or another kind of deadly weapon) on you (or within your reach), you could face the charge of carrying a concealed weapon. The following generally apply if the charge is a first offense:

• The charge is a first-degree misdemeanor. 
• A conviction can carry up to 6 months behind bars and fines of up to $1,000. 

If, however, any of the following apply, the charge can be elevated to a fourth-degree felony that carries from 6 to 18 months in prison and fines of up to $5,000: 

• This isn’t your first concealed weapon charge.
• The weapon in question is a firearm that is loaded, or that has ammunition within your reach.  
• You have a prior conviction for a violent crime.

Using Weapons While Intoxicated

It is illegal to carry or use a firearm in the State of Ohio if you are under the influence of alcohol or of any other drug. A charge of using weapons while intoxicated is a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $1,000. 

Improperly Handling Firearms in a Motor Vehicle

There are exacting legal parameters in place that determine how a firearm must be handled in a motor vehicle, and any of the following can lead to charges:

• Discharging a firearm while in or on a motor vehicle
• Transporting a loaded firearm in a manner that leaves it immediately accessible (without exiting the vehicle) to the driver or to any passenger of the vehicle 

It is also illegal to carry an unloaded firearm unless one of the following applies:

• It is in a closed box or case.
• It is in plain sight and is housed in a gun rack. 
• It is in a compartment that can be reached only by exiting the vehicle.

The charges related to improperly handling firearms in a motor vehicle are complex and can range from first-degree misdemeanors to fourth-degree felonies. 

It’s Time to Consult with an Experienced Weapons Charge Attorney Near Me

If you need a weapons charge attorney near me, look no further than the formidable weapons charge attorneys at The VanNoy Firm in Dayton. Your future is too important not to bring your strongest defense, and our distinguished legal team is on your side. For more information about how we can help, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.