Michigan Firearms & Gun Charges Lawyer
Firearms law is a challenging and unique area of law that requires the experience and skill of a trained lawyer who understands gun laws and how they apply to various situations. The statutes that regulate the manufacture, distribution, sale, and possession of firearms in Michigan are voluminous. The firearm lawyers of The Clark Law Office understand these often confusing and complex laws. We also have extensive experience developing various legal defenses and options for our clients to gun charges in Michigan.
Whether you are a licensed gun owner or not, being charged with a firearms crime can be overwhelming. Do not let a firearms charge cause more stress than necessary or ruin your future because of an over-aggressive prosecutor looking for a conviction. Call our office at (517) 347-6900 to schedule a free legal consultation with a Michigan defense attorney.
Michigan Firearm Laws
The laws regarding firearms can be found in two sections of the Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL). Laws regarding the sale and ownership of firearms can be found in MCL Section 28. Criminal offenses related to the possession and use of firearms can be found in The Michigan Penal Code (MCL Section 750). In addition to these laws, registered and licensed gun owners who have the Concealed Pistol License (CPL) must know and understand the various laws and requirement governing CPLs. Most of the crimes related to guns involve the unlawful use of a firearm, whether he crime is possessing a concealed weapon without a license or using a firearm to commit a crime. Common firearm charges our attorneys handle include:
- Illegal Discharge of a Firearm
- Possession of an Illegal Weapon
- Armed Robbery
- Assault with Intent to Cause Bodily Harm
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon
- Unlawful Delivery or Sale of a Weapon
- Carrying or Using a Gun Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
- Juvenile Firearm and Weapon Offenses
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Discharging a Firearm in a Public Venue
- Gun Permit Violations
- Carrying a Firearm on Prohibited Property (i.e. school, court, liquor stores, hospitals, etc.)
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon (CCW)
- Possession of a Firearm While Committing a Crime
What Are the Punishments for Breaking Michigan’s Gun Laws?
The penalties for being found guilty of a gun charge can be harsh. In some cases, your freedom could be taken from you for several years. It is necessary to develop a defense strategy that gives you the best chance of avoiding high fines and serious jail time. Many gun charges are felonies that can substantially impact your future, not just the present.
For example, any crime committed while the person has a firearm carries a minimum two-year prison sentence. In addition to fines and incarceration, the impact of a guilty verdict for a gun crime includes loss of employment, a permanent, criminal record, loss of professional license, loss of future gun rights, and extended probation after your release.
Defending a Michigan Firearm Charge
Our gun law attorneys investigate the circumstances surrounding the firearms charge to determine if the charges can be reduced or dismissed based on various elements. When developing our defense strategy, we want to answer questions such as:
- What was your intent when carrying the weapon?
- Was the gun loaded or unloaded?
- Was the gun operable or an antique?
- Were you hunting with the firearm?
- Did you know where the gun was located?
- Did you know you were in possession of a firearm?
- Was any other individual in fear of imminent harm?
What Should You Do If You Are Stopped by a Law Enforcement Officer?
Do not remove your firearm from its location. Place your hands where they can be seen and remain in that position until the officer tells you to move. Immediately inform the police officer that you have a pistol license and you are carrying your weapon. When requested, provide the officer your driver’s license and your carry permit. It is never a good idea to argue with a police officer at this point. It is better to let your attorney handle the arguments in court.
Do You Need a Michigan Firearms Attorney?
If you have been arrested for a firearms charge, you need an experienced attorney on your side. The legal team at The Clark Law Office is ready to defend your gun rights and protection your legal rights. Call our office at (517) 347-6900 to schedule a free legal consultation with a Michigan firearms attorney.