Gun crime lawyer in Gladstone, MO. Missouri’s relatively relaxed stance on firearms does not mean violations are taken lightly. Owning a firearm legally in Gladstone, 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.
Whether you’re facing gun crime charges in Gladstone, 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.
Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or connect online for a free, confidential consultation. Discuss your case with a skilled criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of Gladstone, MO law. With over 40 years of experience and a proven track record of successfully handling 10,000+ cases in Missouri, the Combs Waterkotte legal team is here to help.
Gladstone, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Missouri Gun Laws
Gladstone, 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: Certain areas, such as schools, courthouses, and specific private properties, restrict gun possession without explicit authorization.
- Prohibited Persons: Convicted felons, individuals with certain domestic violence convictions, and those under orders of protection may not own or possess firearms.
Gladstone, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: A Guide to Missouri Gun Crimes
The skillful and experienced Combs Waterkotte legal team handles a variety of gun crimes in and around Gladstone, MO, including:
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Missouri laws on unlawful use of a weapon cover several situations in Gladstone, MO, such as:
- Firing a weapon in restricted areas or under the influence of alcohol.
- Displaying a firearm in a menacing or threatening way.
- Carrying a concealed weapon in or around Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, MO area.
- Modifying firearms or accessories illegally.
Possible legal consequences range in severity from a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000, to a Class A felony, which carries a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of 30 years or even life in prison.
If you’re facing unlawful use of a weapon charges in Gladstone, 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 a Class C felony, unless an individual has been convicted of a dangerous felony or has a prior unlawful possession conviction in Gladstone, MO, in which case it becomes a Class B felony.
If you’re facing charges, a qualified Gladstone, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your rights.
Armed Criminal Action
Armed criminal action is a significant charge in Gladstone, MO involving the use, display, or possession of 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 is treated as a separate felony offense in Gladstone, MO, with mandatory minimum sentence requirements, including 3 years for a first offense, 5 years for a second offense, and 10 years for a third offense. These complex charges and sentences make it crucial to have a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side who can:
- Thoroughly examine the facts and evidence in your case.
- Negotiate plea deals to reduce or eliminate the Gladstone, MO armed criminal action charge.
- Develop a strong defense strategy tailored precisely to your situation in Gladstone, MO.
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.
Depending on the situation, charges for an unlawful transfer of weapons can be a Class A misdemeanor or escalate to a Class E felony. If you’re charged with this crime, an experienced Combs Waterkotte Gladstone, MO gun crime lawyer can assess your case, protect your legal rights, and fight for a favorable result. Call (314) 900-HELP right now 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 Gladstone, 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.
Clay County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Clay County and Missouri.
Gladstone, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Understanding Federal Gun Crimes in Missouri
Gladstone, MO gun crimes can sometimes escalate to federal offenses, bringing harsher penalties and stricter enforcement. Federal gun charges often come into play when:
- Firearms are involved in crimes crossing state lines.
- The firearm was used in a federal crime, such as drug trafficking, terrorism, or a violent offense crossing state lines.
- Aggravating circumstances, such as ties to organized crime or large-scale firearm distribution or smuggling, are present.
Gladstone, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Fighting Gun Crime Charges in Missouri With Combs Waterkotte
The Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorneys in Gladstone, MO, employ several effective strategies to counter gun crime charges. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent or Awareness
For many gun crimes in Gladstone, 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. - Unlawful Search & Seizure
The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. If Gladstone, 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 Gladstone, MO were lawful and justified.
If you’re facing gun crime charges in or around Gladstone, MO and hire Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal gun crime lawyer in Gladstone, MO and throughout Missouri – you’re securing your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our esteemed gun crime attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and provides expertise in the following areas for residents in Gladstone 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
Gladstone, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Reasons to Hire a Combs Waterkotte Gun Crime Lawyer
A gun crime conviction in Gladstone, MO can result in imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Gladstone, MO ensures your case receives professional attention and a strategic approach. Combs Waterkotte offers:
- Thorough Evidence Review: Our attorneys carefully examine evidence, police records, and witness statements to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
- Tailored Legal Strategy: Our knowledgeable lawyers understand Gladstone, MO, Missouri, and federal gun laws, and can craft a defense tailored to your situation.
- Personable Negotiation Skills: Skilled negotiation can often result in reduced charges, lighter sentencing, or alternative sentencing like probation.
- Dedicated Courtroom Advocacy: If your Gladstone, MO case proceeds to court, our experienced gun crime lawyers will fight vigorously to defend your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Charged With a Gun Crime in Gladstone, MO? Consult a Skilled Gun Crime Lawyer at Combs Waterkotte
If you’re dealing with gun crime allegations in Gladstone, MO, time is of the essence. The earlier you consult with a skilled gun crime lawyer, the greater your chances of building a solid defense strategy and minimizing the impact of the charges. 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 for a free case review with a Gladstone, MO gun crime lawyer.