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Jackson, MO

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Last Updated: December 5, 2024

Gun crime lawyer in Jackson, 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 Jackson, MO. Understanding these intricacies of Missouri’s gun laws can be key to protecting your rights and future.

Whether you’re facing gun crime charges in Jackson, MO or elsewhere in Missouri related to illegal possession, brandishing, or using a firearm in the commission of another crime, you need to have a skilled gun crime lawyer by your side.

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

While Jackson, MO upholds the constitutional right to bear arms, allowing open carry and issuing concealed carry permits under defined conditions, there are important restrictions to be aware of:

  • Improper Use: Displaying a firearm in a threatening way or using it during the commission of a crime can result in serious legal consequences.
  • Restricted Zones: Carrying firearms in schools, courthouses, and certain private properties is prohibited without express permission.
  • Restricted Individuals: Those with felony convictions, domestic violence offenses, or active protective orders are legally prohibited from owning or carrying firearms.

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Jackson, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Understanding Gun Crimes in Missouri

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

Unlawful Use of a Weapon

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

  • Discharging a firearm in certain areas, including firing a gun while intoxicated.
  • Displaying a firearm in a menacing or threatening way.
  • Carrying concealed weapons in or around Jackson, MO without proper authorization.
  • Possessing a firearm in Jackson, MO prohibited areas.
  • Using a firearm in the commission of a criminal act, like robbery or assault in Jackson, 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 Jackson, 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 details the conditions under which possession of a firearm is prohibited, including:

  • Felon Possession
  • Underage Possession
  • Possession by Certain Offenders
  • Federal Restrictions

In Missouri, unlawful firearm possession is typically classified as a Class C felony, unless the individual has been convicted of a dangerous felony or has a prior Jackson, MO unlawful possession of a firearm in which case it’s a Class B felony.

If you’re facing these charges, an experienced Jackson, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, scrutinize the evidence, and work to protect your freedom.

Armed Criminal Action

Armed criminal action is a serious offense in Jackson, MO involving the use, display, or possession of 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, assault, drug trafficking, and burglary. For instance, an individual charged with robbery while armed with a gun could face both robbery and armed criminal action charges.

Armed criminal action in Jackson, 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.

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 facing these allegations, securing an experienced Combs Waterkotte gun crime lawyer in Jackson, MO is essential to pursue the best outcome for your case. Contact us today at (314) 900-HELP 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 Jackson, 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.

Jackson, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Facing Federal Gun Crimes in Missouri

Jackson, MO gun crimes can sometimes escalate to federal offenses, bringing harsher penalties and stricter enforcement. Federal gun charges often come into play when:

  • The crime spans across state borders.
  • Weapons are used in federal offenses like drug smuggling, acts of terrorism, or violent interstate offenses.
  • Aggravating circumstances, such as ties to organized crime or large-scale firearm distribution or smuggling, are present.

Jackson, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Challenging Gun Crime Charges in Missouri

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

  • Lack of Knowledge or Intent
    For many gun crimes in Jackson, 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
    The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. If Jackson, MO law enforcement violated your rights when obtaining evidence, discovering a gun through an unlawful stop or frisk or search of your vehicle or residence.
  • 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 Jackson, MO were lawful and justified.

If you’re accused of a gun crime in Jackson, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you aren’t just hiring a top-rated gun crime lawyer in Jackson, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced gun crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Jackson, MO residents:

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

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

Facing a gun crime conviction in Jackson, MO can be life-altering, leading to imprisonment, financial burdens, and a tarnished reputation. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Jackson, MO is essential for a well-prepared and effective defense. Combs Waterkotte offers:

  • Expert Case Analysis: Our attorneys carefully examine evidence, police records, and witness statements to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
  • Tailored Legal Strategy: Using in-depth knowledge of Jackson, MO, state, and federal gun laws, we create a defense strategy specifically suited to your case.
  • Strong Negotiation Capabilities: Our lawyers are skilled at negotiating with prosecutors to secure reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal when possible.
  • Dedicated Courtroom Advocacy: If trial is necessary for your Jackson, MO case, we will vigorously represent you to protect your freedom and strive for a favorable outcome.

Gun Crime Charges in Jackson, MO? Let the Combs Waterkotte Experts Help You Defend Your Case Today

If you’re facing gun crime charges in or around Jackson, 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. Protect your rights, your future, and get the professional legal guidance you need during this challenging time.

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

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