Both state and federal laws regulate the possession, purchase, sale and transfer of firearms. Many people, including convicted felons, undocumented immigrants, people who have been convicted of domestic violence or people who are subject to a domestic violence restraining order, are prohibited from possessing firearms.

Violations of these laws can be very serious crimes. In the most serious cases, judges are required to impose mandatory minimum jail sentences of 15 years to life in prison. Almost all weapons offenses are felonies. Additionally, many other types of crimes are punished more severely when they are committed with the use of a gun or other deadly weapon.

Common weapons offenses charged in Wake County, North Carolina, include carrying a concealed weapon and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Understanding Concealed Weapon Charges

In North Carolina, a first offense of carrying a concealed weapon is a Class 2 Misdemeanor and it is punishable by up to 60 days in jail. However, a second offense is elevated to a Class H felony.

There are many defenses to these charges. This making includes arguments regarding the legality of any search or of the possession of the weapon itself. First offender agreements are sometimes offered, which allow for a dismissal of concealed weapon charges. Depending on the specific circumstances, defendants may have to fulfill certain requirements in order to achieve such a dismissal. Most often, these include:

  • Community service
  • Gun safety or concealed carry classes
  • Not getting charged with additional crimes

Carrying a concealed weapon at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) will generally result in both criminal charges in Wake County and a fine from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Often, these cases may also be resolved with a first offender program, once the TSA fine is paid.

The Basics Of Firearm Possession By A Felon Charges

Possession of a firearm by a felon is a Class G felony in North Carolina. It is punishable by up to 51 months in prison. These cases are generally resolved in Superior Court. It is important to consider the impact the result in a state prosecution may have on the possibility that federal charges for the same crime may be brought.

Broad Knowledge And Experience

At Hale Law Firm, PC, a criminal defense law firm in Raleigh, North Carolina, firearm crime defense lawyer, attorney Hale, is dedicated to defending the rights and liberties of his clients charged with weapons-related offenses. His practice is devoted exclusively to representing people who are charged with crimes, including gun and other weapon-related crimes. As a result, he possess in-depth understanding of the law and procedural rules surrounding gun crimes.

He has successfully defended many types of weapons offenses, from possession of a firearm by a convicted felon to carrying a concealed weapon in an airport.

Attorney Hale has extensive experience handling gun crimes in both state and federal courts. He has handled thousands of criminal cases, hundreds of trials and numerous appeals.

Dedicated Representation In All Types Of State And Federal Charges

Hale Law Firm, PC, provides dedicated representation for clients facing state or federal weapons offense charges, such as:

  • Felons or other prohibited persons in possession of a firearm
  • Concealed weapon violations
  • Purchase of a handgun without a permit
  • Possession of prohibited firearms, such as machine guns, short-barreled rifles or shotguns
  • Straw purchases of firearms
  • Illicit gun trafficking
  • Possession of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime or a crime of violence
  • Possession of a firearm in a school zone or other prohibited area

He also represents clients charged with crimes committed with the use of a deadly weapon, such as murder, assault, domestic violence, armed robbery and all other violent crimes.

Personalized Client Service. Attuned To Immigration Concerns

Hale Law Firm, PC, is dedicated to a high level of personalized client service. Attorney Hale maintains a low-volume caseload so that he can devote individualized attention to every case. Clients appreciate his prompt communication; he keeps them apprised of every development in their cases.

Attorney Hale also assists noncitizen clients on how to navigate the immigration concerns that arise from criminal convictions.

Free Initial Consultation With A Wake County Firearm Offense Lawyer

Whether you are facing charges of illegal possession of a gun or assault with a deadly weapon, attorney Hale can help. He has extensive experience handling all types of weapons offenses.

To arrange a free initial consultation, contact Hale Law Firm, PC, at 919-891-8995. Jail visits and flexible payment options are available. His office is conveniently located in downtown Raleigh across the street from the Wake County Justice Center.