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Our Criminal Law Attorneys Defend Against Weapon Charges

Fighting to protect your constitutional rights

At Shannon & Associates, P.C., we provide legal counsel and representation in an efficient and non intimidating manner. Our attorneys will work with law enforcement officials and prosecutors to resolve your charges in the best manner for you. But if negotiations fail, we are not afraid to fight for you through litigation. Handling weapons charges especially requires a specific know-how possessed by our criminal defense attorneys. Whether you were charged with a gun charge or are under investigation, we can help.

Call our office to schedule an appointment today at (757) 228-5529 or send us a message via our website.

Offenses involving a firearm are as numerous as the kinds of guns that exist

Weapons and violent crime charges come in many different forms and can be brought against you by the Commonwealth of Virginia and the U.S. government. In Virginia, these are some of weapons-related offenses:

  • Reckless handling of firearms
  • Carrying loaded firearms where prohibited
  • Possession of certain firearms by a minor
  • Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
  • Receiving a stolen firearm
  • Allowing access to firearms by children
  • Hunting with firearms while under the influence
  • Use or display of firearm in committing a felony
  • Removing or altering a serial number or other identification on a firearm
  • Possessing a firearm while on parole
  • Failure to register a firearm

The distinction between what kind of weapon caused you to violate any weapons law is significant in determining whether you in fact violated any laws. If you carry a gun or other kind of weapon, here are important terms used in the gun statutes in Virginia that can help you avoid a weapons charge:

  • Firearm: A firearm is an instrument designed, made and intended to expel a projectile by means of explosion. A firearm does not have to be operable or capable of being fired.
  • Deadly weapon: A deadly weapon is an instrument that could reasonably cause death or great bodily harm from its use. This does not have to be a firearm — for example, a knife is a deadly weapon.
  • Concealed weapon: Concealed weapons include among others, any pistol, revolver, switchblade knife, machete, razor or slingshot carried on your person and hidden from common observation.

Gun control legislation receives ongoing attention, but have any laws changed?

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states, “The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed,” has been a source of debate for many decades. The Virginia Constitution also guarantees the right to bear arms. Recently, in a 2008 decision, the Supreme Court confirmed the guarantee to possess and carry weapons afforded by the Second Amendment. Even though the gun control debate and proposed legislation have returned to center stage, no new legislation has been passed in Virginia yet.

Let us effectively handle your weapons charges and protect your rights in Chesapeake and Virginia Beach

Shannon & Associates, P.C. handles criminal matters ranging from violent crimes to DUI and traffic offenses. Our attorneys take the necessary steps to make you comfortable so we can provide the best legal services to you. Call our office to schedule an appointment today at (757) 228-5529 or send us a message via our website.

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