The State of New Jersey supports the Second Amendment, however, there are consequences for violating gun laws. If you are caught either illegally possessing, selling, or using firearms and other weapons, you cannot afford to go without hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight your weapons charge. Here are some of the questions you may have regarding the legal process going forward:
What are the different weapons offenses recognized by New Jersey courts?
There are several different types of weapons in existence, though they are all capable of causing serious harm, especially if illegally sold, used, or possessed. Some of the weapons offenses recognized by New Jersey courts are as follows:
- Owning an unregistered or stolen firearm
- Transporting firearms through New Jersey from another state
- Possessing an airsoft gun or a BB gun
- Owning an assault rifle or sawed-off shotgun
- Possessing a firearm without a valid permit
- Possessing a knife, baseball bat, or crowbar for criminal reasons
What are the penalties for a New Jersey weapons charge?
New Jersey courts seek to punish all those accused of weapons charges. However, depending on the severity of your crime, you face a wide array of potential consequences. The penalties for some of the several weapon possession crimes in New Jersey are as follows:
- The illegal possession of an airsoft or spring gun: Third-degree crime
- The unlawful possession of a rifle or shotgun: Third-degree crime
- The criminal possession of a machine gun, handgun, or assault rifle: Second-degree crime
What is an upgraded charge?
An upgraded charge essentially is when you are found guilty of committing two crimes at once. Rather obviously, this compounds the overall sentencing you will face. This is true for weapons crimes as well. For example, while it is generally illegal to possess a machine gun in New Jersey, if you are caught in the act of burglary or assault while in the possession of such a gun, you will face even more severe charges as a result. If you are facing an upgraded sentence, you cannot afford to go without hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our firm is ready to stand up for your rights.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves in our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
