Gun crime lawyer in Neosho, 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 Neosho, MO. Understanding these intricacies of Missouri’s gun laws can be key to protecting your rights and future.
If you’re charged with a gun crime in Neosho, MO – whether for unlawful possession, displaying a firearm, or using a gun during another offense – hiring a skilled gun crime lawyer in Neosho is your first step toward protecting your freedom.
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 Neosho, MO. The Combs Waterkotte has more than 40 years of experience and has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
Neosho, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: An Overview of Missouri Gun Laws
Neosho, 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:
- Use of a Firearm: Using a firearm for threats or criminal purposes can lead to significant penalties.
- Restricted Zones: Carrying firearms in schools, courthouses, and certain private properties is prohibited without express permission.
- Prohibited Persons: Convicted felons, individuals with certain domestic violence convictions, and those under orders of protection may not own or possess firearms.
Neosho, 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 and around Neosho, MO, including:
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Unlawful use of a weapon is one of the most common charges in Missouri, encompassing a variety of situations in Neosho, MO, including:
- Discharging a firearm in restricted areas or while intoxicated.
- Displaying a gun in a threatening or alarming manner.
- Carrying concealed weapons in Neosho, MO without proper authorization.
- Possessing firearms in places where they are prohibited.
- Using a weapon during the commission of a crime, such as robbery or assault in the Neosho, 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 Neosho, 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 outlines the circumstances under which possession of a firearm becomes unlawful, including:
- Felon Possession
- Possession by Minors
- 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 prior unlawful possession charges in Neosho, MO or beyond, which elevate the offense to a Class B felony.
If you’re dealing with charges, an experienced Neosho, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can analyze your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your future.
Armed Criminal Action
Armed criminal action is a serious offense in Neosho, 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 example, an individual charged with robbery while armed with a gun could face both robbery and armed criminal action charges.
Armed criminal action is treated as a separate felony offense in Neosho, 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:
- Investigate the circumstances of your case.
- Negotiate for plea agreements to reduce or dismiss the charges.
- Develop a strong defense strategy tailored precisely to your situation in Neosho, 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.
This offense can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. If you’re charged with this crime, an experienced Combs Waterkotte Neosho, 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
A defaced firearm is one where the manufacturer’s serial number, or any other identifying markings, 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 Neosho, MO. Under Missouri law, this offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
Newton County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Newton County and Missouri.
Neosho, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Facing Federal Gun Crimes in Missouri
Federal firearm charges throughout the Neosho, MO area carry grave consequences, often resulting in substantial penalties, including mandatory prison sentences and hefty fines. Federal charges typically arise in Neosho, MO gun crimes when:
- The crime spans across state borders.
- A gun is involved in federal offenses like drug trafficking, terrorism, or interstate violence.
- Cases include serious factors such as organized crime affiliations or large-scale arms trafficking.
Neosho, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Defending Against Gun Crimes in Missouri With Combs Waterkotte
When facing gun crime charges in Neosho, MO, the experienced attorneys at Combs Waterkotte rely on well-established defense strategies to protect your rights. Some of the most effective approaches include:
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent
For a conviction in Neosho, 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. - Unreasonable Search & Seizure
Improper conduct by law enforcement, such as illegal searches or seizures, can result in evidence being inadmissible in Neosho, MO. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, this can form the basis for a strong defense. - 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 Neosho, MO were lawful and justified.
When you’re accused of a gun crime in Neosho, MO and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just selecting a leading gun crime lawyer in Neosho, 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 attorneys, our legal team is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Neosho, MO residents:
- 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
Neosho, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Reasons to Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer in Missouri
Facing a gun crime conviction in Neosho, MO can be life-altering, leading to imprisonment, financial burdens, and a tarnished reputation. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Neosho, MO ensures your case is handled with expertise, compassion, and diligence. Combs Waterkotte offers:
- Thorough Evidence Review: Your attorney will meticulously review all evidence, including witness statements and police reports, to identify all weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
- Tailored Legal Strategy: Using in-depth knowledge of Neosho, MO, state, and federal gun laws, we create a defense strategy specifically suited to your case.
- Strong Negotiation Capabilities: Skilled negotiation can often result in reduced charges, lighter sentencing, or alternative sentencing like probation.
- Dedicated Courtroom Advocacy: Should your case go to trial, your lawyer will advocate aggressively to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
Gun Crime Charges in Neosho, MO? Let the Combs Waterkotte Experts Help You Defend Your Case Today
If you’re dealing with gun crime allegations in or around Neosho, 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.
Call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP right away or reach out online to schedule a free case review with a Neosho, MO gun crime lawyer.