Gun And Firearm Charges
Gun and firearm related laws in Indiana are fairly complex. It can be difficult to know what to do if you find yourself facing gun or firearm related charges, even if you think you’ve done nothing wrong. That’s why, the first thing to do is find a criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis you can trust. One like David Shircliff of Shircliff Law LLC.
David Shircliff is an Indiana criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of experience handling all types of criminal cases. He understands the complexity of gun and firearm law and can work to improve your situation by possibly getting charges and penalties reduced, protecting professional licenses, and even possibly getting you acquitted. He has fought over 200 cases, with many positive outcomes. David is devoted to making sure people are treated fairly by the criminal justice system and their rights are upheld.
New clients can get a free consultation where we will go over the facts of your case and find out what charges you are facing and the evidence gathered against you. From there we will formulate a strategy for how best to defend you. Just send an email or call 317-279-4894.
Types of Gun and Firearm Charges
Here are some of the most common firearm charges that a person may face in Indiana, as well as the potential penalties for the crime
Unlawful Possession
Unlawful possession laws can cover a few different scenarios. For example, anyone who has committed a felony violent crime is not entitled to purchase or own a firearm unless they have had their rights restored. This is considered a level 4 felony, which can equal years in prison and thousands in fines.
Similarly, a person convicted of domestic battery is unable to own a firearm unless they have had their rights restored. This is considered a class A misdemeanor and can result in 1 year in jail and fines.
It is also against the law to possess a firearm without the proper permit. The penalty for possession will depend on a person’s criminal record and can be either a class A misdemeanor or a felony.
Reckless Behavior
Reckless behavior with a firearm is a punishable crime in Indiana. This can be the act of pointing a firearm at someone, as well as handling the weapon in a way that may cause harm to others, or discharging the firearm in a reckless manner. This is considered a felony crime.
Unlawful Sale or Purchase
The sale or transfer of a firearm to a person who is ineligible to own a firearm is considered a crime in Indiana and is a low level felony, unless the person uses the weapon to commit murder, in which case the crime becomes a higher grade felony, punishable by more time in jail and even higher fines.
It is also illegal to knowingly purchase a firearm for a person who is ineligible to possess a firearm and this charge also carries felony penalties. This charge also increases if the person receiving the weapon uses it to commit murder.
In the case of unlawful sale or purchase charges, the prosecution must prove that a person knowingly executed the sale or purchase with a person who was ineligible to own a gun.
Contact Shircliff Law LLC Today
A firearms charge can quickly change your life and take away some of your rights, which is why it is important to have a legal team you can trust on your side. Shircliff Law LLC is here for you when you need them. If you’re facing a firearm related charge, contact us today.