Gun crime lawyer in Glendale, MO. Missouri’s relatively relaxed stance on firearms does not mean violations are taken lightly. Owning a firearm legally in Glendale, 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.
Facing gun crime charges, such as illegal possession, improper brandishing, or gun use in the commission of a crime in Glendale, MO? An experienced gun crime lawyer can help protect your rights and provide a strong defense in Glendale, MO.
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 Glendale, MO. The Combs Waterkotte has more than 40 years of experience and has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
Glendale, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: An Overview of Missouri Gun Laws
Glendale, MO law respects the right to bear arms, supporting open carry and issuing concealed carry permits under certain guidelines. However, the state enforces several restrictions:
- Improper Use: Displaying a firearm in a threatening way or using it during the commission of a crime can result in serious legal consequences.
- Prohibited Locations: Carrying firearms in schools, courthouses, and certain private properties is prohibited without express permission.
- Restricted Individuals: Convicted felons, individuals with certain domestic violence convictions, and those under orders of protection may not own or possess firearms.
Glendale, 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 Glendale, MO, including:
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Unlawful use of a weapon refers to a range of offenses involving firearms in Glendale, MO. These include:
- Discharging a firearm in restricted areas or while intoxicated.
- Displaying a gun in a threatening or alarming manner.
- Carrying a concealed weapon in Glendale, MO without proper permission.
- Possessing firearms in places where they are prohibited.
- Use of a weapon while committing a crime, such as robbery or assault in the Glendale, MO area.
- Modifying firearms or accessories illegally.
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 Glendale, 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:
- Possession by a Felon
- Underage Possession
- Possession by Certain Offenders
- Federal Firearm Restrictions
Unlawful possession of a firearm is classified as a Class C felony, unless the individual has been convicted of a dangerous felony or has a prior unlawful possession conviction in Glendale, MO, in which case it becomes a Class B felony.
If you’re facing these charges, a qualified Glendale, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your rights.
Armed Criminal Action
Armed criminal action in Glendale, MO involves using, displaying, or possessing a weapon during the commission of a felony. Armed criminal action is not a standalone charge, but an enhancement to a felony, such as robbery, assault, drug trafficking, and burglary. For instance, committing assault with a weapon could lead to both assault and armed criminal action charges.
Armed criminal action in Glendale, 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:
- Investigate the circumstances of your case.
- Negotiate plea deals to reduce or eliminate the Glendale, MO armed criminal action charge.
- Create a customized defense strategy to challenge the charges effectively in Glendale, MO.
Unlawful Transfer of Weapons
The unlawful transfer of weapons in Glendale, MO involves selling, leasing, loaning, giving away, or delivering firearms or other weapons to individuals who are prohibited from possessing them.
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 Glendale, 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
A defaced firearm is one where identifying markings, like the serial number, have been intentionally altered, removed, or obliterated. The offense of possession of a defaced firearm is taken seriously, as these weapons are often linked to crimes in Glendale, MO. Under Missouri law, this offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Glendale, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: What Escalates a State Charge to a Federal Gun Crime?
Glendale, 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.
- There are aggravating factors, such as involvement with organized crime or large-scale trafficking.
Glendale, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Fighting Gun Crime Charges in Missouri With Combs Waterkotte
Here are a few common defenses for gun crimes the Combs Waterkotte Glendale, MO criminal defense lawyers use against charges in Missouri:
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent
For a conviction in Glendale, MO, prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly. We might argue that you were unaware of the firearm’s presence or lacked intent to commit a crime. - Unlawful Search & Seizure
The Fourth Amendment protects against unlawful searches and seizures. If Glendale, 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 allows the use of force, including deadly force, in self-defense if you reasonably believed you were in imminent danger of harm or death and the use of force was necessary to prevent that harm.
When you are accused of a gun crime in Glendale, MO and partner with Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing a top-rated gun crime lawyer in Glendale, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our knowledgeable gun crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for residents in Glendale and beyond:
- Child Abuse & Neglect Lawyer
- Homicide Lawyer
- Assault Lawyer
- Rape Defense Lawyer
- Sex Offense Lawyers
- DWI Attorney
- Crime Defense Lawyers
- Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
- Child Pornography Defense Lawyer
Glendale, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Reasons to Hire a Combs Waterkotte Gun Crime Lawyer
A gun crime conviction in Glendale, MO can result in imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Glendale, MO is essential for a well-prepared and effective defense. Combs Waterkotte provides:
- Thorough Evidence Review: 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 Glendale, MO, state, and federal gun laws, we create a defense strategy specifically suited to your case.
- Strong Negotiation Capabilities: In many cases, an attorney can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges, probation, or alternative sentencing options.
- Skilled Courtroom Representation: If trial is necessary for your Glendale, MO case, we will vigorously represent you to protect your freedom and strive for a favorable outcome.
Charged With a Gun Crime in Glendale, MO? Consult a Skilled Gun Crime Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re dealing with gun crime allegations in or around Glendale, 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. Take proactive steps to protect your future with the guidance of experienced legal professionals.
Contact Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP right away or reach out online to schedule a free case review with a Glendale, MO gun crime lawyer.