Gun crime lawyer in Troy, MO. Missouri’s relatively relaxed stance on firearms does not mean violations are taken lightly. Owning a firearm legally in Troy, 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 Troy, MO? An experienced gun crime lawyer can help protect your rights and provide a strong defense in Troy, 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 Troy, MO. The Combs Waterkotte has more than 40 years of experience and has successfully handled over 10,000 cases just like yours.
Troy, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: An Overview of Missouri Gun Laws
Troy, 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.
- Prohibited Locations: Certain areas, such as schools, courthouses, and specific private properties, restrict gun possession without explicit authorization.
- Prohibited Persons: Those with felonies, specific domestic violence convictions, or orders of protection are barred from gun ownership or possession.
Troy, 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 Troy, MO, including:
Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Unlawful use of a weapon refers to a range of offenses involving firearms in Troy, MO. These include:
- Discharging a firearm in restricted areas or while intoxicated.
- Displaying a firearm in a menacing or threatening way.
- Carrying a concealed weapon in Troy, MO without proper permission.
- Possession in prohibited areas in Troy, MO.
- Use of a weapon while committing a crime, like robbery or assault in the Troy, MO area.
- Making illegal alterations or attachments to firearms.
Potential penalties 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.
Facing unlawful use of a weapon charges in Troy, MO can lead to serious penalties, including a permanent loss of your firearm rights. A skilled Combs Waterkotte gun crime lawyer can help. Give us a call today at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
Missouri Revised Statute § 571.070 outlines the circumstances under which possession of a firearm becomes unlawful, including:
- Possession by a Felon
- Underage Possession
- Possession by Certain Offenders
- Federal Firearm 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 prior unlawful possession charges in Troy, MO or beyond, which elevate the offense to a Class B felony.
If you’re dealing with charges, a qualified Troy, MO Combs Waterkotte criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your future.
Armed Criminal Action
Armed criminal action is a significant charge in Troy, MO involving the use, display, or possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony. This charge enhances the severity of the primary felony, such as robbery, drug trafficking, assault, or burglary. For instance, someone committing a burglary while armed could face both robbery and armed criminal action charges.
Armed criminal action in Troy, 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 Troy, MO armed criminal action charge.
- Develop a strong defense strategy tailored precisely to your situation in Troy, 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.
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 charges in Troy, MO, act quickly to secure legal representation. A knowledgeable Combs Waterkotte gun crime lawyer can protect your rights and work to get the best possible outcome for your case. Call (314) 900-HELP right away or contact us 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 destroyed. The offense of possession of a defaced firearm is taken seriously, as these weapons are often linked to crimes in Troy, MO. Under Missouri law, this offense is classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
Lincoln County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in Lincoln County and Missouri.
Troy, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Understanding Federal Gun Crimes in Missouri
Federal firearm charges throughout the Troy, MO area carry grave consequences, often resulting in substantial penalties, including mandatory prison sentences and hefty fines. Federal charges typically arise in Troy, MO gun crimes 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.
- Cases include serious factors such as organized crime affiliations or large-scale arms trafficking.
Troy, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Challenging Gun Crime Charges in Missouri
When facing gun crime charges in Troy, 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 Intent or Awareness
For a conviction in Troy, 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 Troy, 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.
If you’re facing gun crime charges in the Troy, MO area and choose Combs Waterkotte, you’re not just choosing the ideal gun crime lawyer in Troy, MO and throughout Missouri – you are protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future. In addition to expert criminal defense from our experienced gun crime lawyers, our staff is available 24/7 and offers expertise in the following areas for Troy, 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
Troy, MO Gun Crime Lawyer: Reasons to Hire a Combs Waterkotte Gun Crime Lawyer
A gun crime conviction in Troy, MO can result in imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Hiring an experienced gun crime lawyer in Troy, MO ensures your case is handled with expertise, compassion, and diligence. Combs Waterkotte provides:
- Expert Case Analysis: Your attorney will meticulously review all evidence, including witness statements and police reports, to identify all weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
- Customized Defense Planning: Using in-depth knowledge of Troy, 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.
- Skilled Courtroom Representation: If trial is necessary for your Troy, MO case, we will vigorously represent you to protect your freedom and strive for a favorable outcome.
Gun Crime Charges in Troy, MO? Let the Combs Waterkotte Experts Help You Defend Your Case Today
If you’re facing gun crime charges in or around Troy, 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 connect with us online to schedule a free case review with a Troy, MO gun crime lawyer.