McKinney, Texas Weapons Charges Defense Attorneys

Lawyers for Firearm Charges and Weapons Offenses in McKinney

Even though the laws in Texas are meant to protect the rights of gun owners, you could face criminal charges related to firearms or other dangerous weapons in a variety of situations. Violations of the regulations that address how and where firearms and other weapons can be carried, possessed, and used can lead to serious penalties. A conviction for a weapons offense can have lasting repercussions, affecting a person's criminal record, employment opportunities, and civil rights.

If you have been charged with a weapons-related offense in McKinney, the experienced criminal defense lawyers at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. can help protect your rights. We work with you to develop a legal strategy to challenge the charges against you while minimizing the ways your life may be affected.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

While Texas allows many people to own firearms, certain people are prohibited from possessing them. A person may be charged with unlawful possession of a firearm due to previous convictions for felonies or domestic violence offenses. Violations of restraining orders that prohibit firearm possession can also lead to weapons charges.

Convicted felons who are accused of possessing firearms may face third-degree felony charges. Other violations may result in Class A misdemeanor charges.

Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon (UCW)

In Texas, it is illegal to carry a handgun in public in certain situations, including when a person is intoxicated, when they are allegedly engaging in criminal activity, or when they are prohibited by law from possessing firearms. In most cases, this offense is charged as a Class A misdemeanor.

A person may also face criminal charges if they allegedly carry a firearm or other dangerous weapon in a school, courthouse, the secured area of an airport, a business that sells alcohol, a hospital, an amusement park, or another restricted location. This offense may also lead to Class A misdemeanor charges.

Unlawful Possession of Dangerous Weapons or Explosives

Some types of weapons are prohibited in Texas. Possessing, manufacturing, transporting, or selling explosives like bombs or grenades, machine guns and other fully automatic firearms, armor-piercing ammunition, or improvised explosive devices can lead to criminal charges. Possession of these weapons may lead to third-degree felony charges.

Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm

Firing a gun in a dangerous manner may lead to criminal charges. In general, recklessly discharging a firearm in a city with a population of at least 100,000 is a Class A misdemeanor offense. If the offense involves reckless endangerment or injury, felony charges may apply.

Firearm Smuggling

A person may face criminal charges if they are accused of selling or transferring firearms while knowing that the weapons were acquired illegally or will be used for illegal activities. Firearm smuggling charges often arise in cases involving organized crime, straw purchases, or transporting firearms across state or national borders. Firearm smuggling is typically classified as a third-degree felony, but if the offense involves multiple weapons, charges may be increased to a second-degree felony.

Defense Strategies for Weapons Charges in McKinney

When you are facing charges involving firearms or other weapons, our McKinney weapons crimes defense lawyers can help you determine your legal options. Possible defense strategies may include:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement conducted an unlawful search without probable cause or a warrant, any weapons they found in your possession may be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of Knowledge or Intent: In some cases, you may not have been aware that you were in possession of an illegal weapon or that you were carrying it in a prohibited area.
• Self-Defense or Justified Use: If a firearm was used in self-defense or to protect others, our defense attorneys can argue that the action was legally justified.
• Firearm Ownership or Carry Rights: If you had the legal right to carry or possess a firearm, our attorneys can argue that the charges should be dismissed or reduced.

Contact Our McKinney, TX Weapons Charges Defense Lawyers

Criminal charges related to firearms or other weapons can be serious, and they could affect your rights to possess and carry weapons that you need to defend yourself. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., our skilled criminal defense attorneys can help you defend against these charges while working to prevent serious penalties. Contact our McKinney weapons charges attorneys at 214-544-0061 to set up a free consultation.