Blog
new york possession of a weapon lawyer
Contents
New York Possession of a Weapon Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with possessing an illegal weapon in New York, you need a good lawyer, plain and simple. Weapon possession charges are serious business with steep penalties if convicted. Let’s break it down:
New York Weapon Possession Laws
There are a bunch of laws about possessing weapons in New York. Some key ones:
- It’s illegal to possess guns, knives, brass knuckles, and other weapons without a permit[1].
- Having a loaded gun outside your home without a permit is a felony[2].
- Possessing large capacity ammunition magazines is banned[3].
- Switchblades, gravity knives, and stun guns are prohibited[4].
- There are enhanced penalties for possessing weapons at schools or on school grounds[5].
Bottom line – it’s really strict. There are some exceptions if you have a valid permit, but otherwise, just having a weapon on you can mean big trouble.
Penalties for Weapon Possession
If you’re convicted of possessing an illegal weapon in New York, you’ll face:
- Jail time – weapons felonies can mean years behind bars[6].
- Fines – up to thousands of dollars.
- A criminal record – which hurts jobs, housing, etc.
- Other collateral consequences – like immigration issues or professional license problems.
Scary stuff. You want to avoid conviction at all costs.
Fighting Weapon Possession Charges
So what can you do to beat a weapon possession charge? Here are some strategies a good lawyer might use:
- File a motion to suppress evidence if there was an illegal search or seizure.
- Challenge whether you actually “possessed” the weapon.
- Argue you had a valid license or the weapon was antique, ornamental, etc.
- Negotiate a plea deal to lesser charges like disorderly conduct if possible.
- Take the case to trial and put the DA to their burden of proof.
A skilled NYC defense lawyer knows how to navigate these issues and fight to get charges reduced or dismissed. Don’t go it alone.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Trying to defend against weapon possession charges solo is a bad idea. Here’s why having a lawyer is critical:
- They know how to challenge evidence and statements made to police.
- They can negotiate better plea deals with the DA than you can.
- They understand complex gun laws and defense strategies.
- You avoid mistakes – self-defense can backfire without an expert.
- Lawyers get better results – up to 60% reduction in fines/sentences.
Don’t play around with weapon charges. The stakes are too high. Hire a lawyer.
Finding the Right Lawyer
Not just any lawyer will do. For the best chance of beating a weapon possession charge, find one who:
- Focuses specifically on gun and weapon crimes.
- Has experience defending weapon cases in your area.
- Is aggressive – willing to take cases to trial if needed.
- Has a track record of good results for clients.
- You feel comfortable and can trust.
Ideally, a former prosecutor who knows how the DA thinks. Do your research to pick the right weapon crimes lawyer.
The Bottom Line
Getting arrested for possessing a weapon in New York is scary; the laws are harsh and unforgiving. But with an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can give yourself the best chance of beating the charges. Don’t wait – call a lawyer today for a free case evaluation.
They’ll protect your rights, clearly explain your options, and fight relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome. With so much at stake, a top gun crimes lawyer is an investment you can’t afford to skip.
References
[1] NY Penal Law Section 265.01
[2] NY Penal Law Section 265.03
[3] Large Capacity Ammunition Ban
[6] Weapon Possession Sentencing Guidelines
Challenging Constructive Possession
Trial Defenses for Weapons Charges
Lawyers Negotiating with Prosecutors
Benefits of Legal Representation
Finding a NY Criminal Defense Lawyer
Working with a Criminal Defense Lawyer