Criminal Defense Lawyers

Shooting or Throwing Deadly Missiles Lawyers

Shooting or Throwing Deadly Missiles Lawyers

Shooting or throwing deadly missiles is a serious criminal offense that can lead to felony charges and significant jail time in many states. If you have been accused of this crime, it is critical that you retain an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

What is Shooting or Throwing Deadly Missiles?

This charge refers to recklessly shooting a firearm or hurling an object in a way that puts others in danger of injury or death. It does not require an intent to harm – simply acting in a way that shows a disregard for human life can lead to prosecution.

Some examples include:

• Discharging a gun into an occupied building or vehicle
• Throwing rocks or other objects at cars driving down the highway
• Firing a gun randomly into the air in a residential area

The deadly missile does not need to hit anyone to bring this charge. The act of shooting or throwing it in a reckless manner is enough.

Potential Penalties

Since shooting or throwing deadly missiles is a felony charge in most states, potential penalties are severe. They may include:

• Years in state prison
• Thousands in fines
• Probation or parole
• Loss of gun rights
• Permanent criminal record

Sentencing depends on your criminal history, if anyone was injured, and state laws. But you could face anywhere from 1-10+ years behind bars if convicted.

Legal Defenses Your Lawyer Can Raise

Skilled criminal defense lawyers have successfully defended these charges by raising legal defenses like:

• You lacked criminal intent – If it was a true accident or you did not intend to harm anyone, this could show you did not act recklessly. Evidence like prior responsible gun ownership could help.
• False accusations – Witnesses make mistakes. Your attorney can question the credibility of accusers and cast doubt on their version of events.
• Unlawful search – If police violated your 4th Amendment rights by searching you or your property without probable cause, evidence found may be excluded.
• Self-defense – Using justifiable force to protect yourself or others against an imminent threat is not a crime. Your lawyer can argue you acted reasonably in self-defense.
• Mistaken identity – You may have an alibi or evidence proving you were wrongly identified as the shooter or thrower. Video footage, receipts, phone records, and witness statements can show it was someone else.

A skilled lawyer thoroughly investigates your case to identify and raise the best defenses to achieve dismissal, acquittal, or mitigated charges.

The Importance of an Experienced Lawyer

Facing felony charges like shooting or throwing deadly missiles can feel overwhelming. But an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help by:

• Conducting a full investigation of your case
• Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
• Advising you of possible defenses based on the facts
• Negotiating with the DA for reduced charges or dismissal
• Fighting to exclude illegally obtained evidence
• Presenting persuasive defenses at trial
• Ensuring your rights are protected at every stage

Navigating the criminal justice system and building an effective defense requires in-depth knowledge of criminal law and procedure. An experienced local criminal defense lawyer has the expertise to protect your rights and give you the strongest chance at the best outcome.

What to Do if You Are Facing Charges

If you have been arrested for shooting or throwing deadly missiles, it is essential to exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal counsel. Anything you say to police can be used against you.

Next, retain a criminal defense lawyer promptly. The sooner your attorney can start investigating and building your defenses, the better. They can also advocate for your release from jail on bond or work to get excessive bond amounts reduced.

With an aggressive defense lawyer on your side fighting these serious allegations, you have the best chance of avoiding a devastating conviction. Do not leave your future to chance – get the experienced legal help you need now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I was just celebrating and firing my gun in the air?

It does not matter if you intended to harm anyone or not. Randomly firing a gun into the air in a populated area shows disregard for human life and can still lead to prosecution for shooting deadly missiles. Only use firearms responsibly.

What if I threw the object in self-defense?

Using reasonable force to protect yourself or others against an imminent threat is considered justifiable self-defense. If you were defending yourself from harm when you threw an object, your attorney can argue you acted lawfully and should not be convicted.

Is it a felony even if no one was hurt?

In most states, yes. The act of recklessly shooting or throwing a deadly object in a way that endangers lives makes it a felony – even if by luck no one was injured. The potential for harm makes it a very serious charge.

Can I represent myself in court?

While you have the right to represent yourself, this is an extremely unwise choice when facing felony charges. Handling your own defense without deep knowledge of criminal law will put you at a huge disadvantage. An experienced lawyer is essential.

What if I can’t afford a lawyer?

If you cannot afford to hire a criminal defense lawyer, you have the right to have the court appoint a public defender to represent you for free. This is far better than defending yourself. Ask the court for a public defender when you are first in front of a judge.

Being accused of shooting or throwing deadly missiles merits aggressive legal representation. These serious allegations carry steep penalties that can follow you for life. Protect yourself and your future by hiring an experienced local criminal defense lawyer right away. With an expert attorney fighting for you, you have the best chance of the best possible outcome.