Defending against Severe Weapons Charges in the Fort Worth Area
While Texas law allows many people to own firearms and other weapons, the law still prohibits people from possessing or using weapons in a reckless manner or for criminal purposes. In addition, some people are prohibited from possessing weapons at all, including people with felony convictions.
Some weapons charges are issued on their own, while others are in conjunction with other severe criminal allegations. No matter what your situation may be, it is critical to consult with a highly experienced and aggressive criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can. You want to avoid a conviction whenever possible, and the Law Office of Kyle Whitaker can help fight for the best possible outcome. Call today for more information.
Types of Weapons Charges
You can face weapons-related charges for many reasons, and two of the most common are:
- Unlawfully possession of a weapon - This charge applies when you do not have authority to possess a weapon, such as when you are subject to a protective order, under supervision for domestic violence, or have a felony on your record. In most cases, this is a Class A misdemeanor, which can come with a fine up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail. However, in some cases, this can be a felony charge with a possible $10,000 fine and up to ten years behind bars.
- Unlawfully carrying of a weapon - You cannot carry a weapon in a reckless or unlawful manner, such as out in the open in a vehicle or in prohibited locations, such as schools, racetracks, polling places, courthouses, airports, places that serve alcoholic beverages, and more. This may also be charged as either a Class A misdemeanor or third-degree felony, depending on the circumstances.
Commonly, weapons charges accompany other very serious allegations. In fact, the possession of a weapon will be a factor that escalates a charge to an “aggravated” offense in many situations. This is because having a deadly weapon - even if you do not use it - is considered to be an aggravating factor. Some relevant crimes that often involve weapons include:
- Aggravated robbery
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated kidnapping
- Aggravated sexual assault
Often, aggravated violent crimes are first-degree felonies. This means that because you possessed a weapon, you may face five to 99 years in state prison when, otherwise, the potential sentence may be much less.
When you face weapons charges in addition to other serious charges, you face the possible penalties for BOTH offenses if you are convicted. You need a lawyer who not only fully understands Texas weapons laws but who has extensive experience handling severe criminal matters.
Seek Help from an Aggressive Fort Worth Weapons Offenses Attorney Immediately
The Law Office of Kyle Whitaker defends against many different criminal charges, including weapons crimes and violent felony offenses. You need the strongest defense possible against your charges, so please contact the office online or call 817-332-7703 for as soon as you can if you are arrested and accused of a crime.