Facing a weapons charge in Arizona?
OUR Arizona Defense Attorneys Can Handle Gun Possession Charges and Other Weapon Crimes
If you find yourself facing weapons charges in the state of Arizona, it is important to know that the situation can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. In some cases, possession of the weapon itself is a crime. In others, the crime that is committed with the weapon can lead to weapons charges. When these charges arise, it is essential to seek the legal assistance of an experienced weapons charges lawyer who can fight for your rights.
At The Valley Law Group, our team of legal professionals is committed to defending clients facing a variety of weapons charges. We will work diligently to advocate for your rights and freedoms while protecting your future livelihood, crafting strong defense strategies that will hold up in court. Weapons charges can range in severity, but even a misdemeanor charge can carry harsh penalties. The Valley Law Group firmly believes that reducing or preventing these penalties is our most important responsibility.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Attorneys?
The state of Arizona is diligent in its preservation of the Second Amendment and gun rights. However, penalties can be substantial should individuals violate weapon laws in the state. If you are accused of behavior that results in weapons charges, it is crucial that you secure a lawyer for gun charges. Now is not the time to waste your resources and energy attempting to defend yourself. Our criminal defense firm is dedicated to aggressively fighting for your rights and freedoms, and we have developed a proven track record of success that demonstrates our commitment.
The weapons attorneys at The Valley Law Group have successfully defended clients facing charges of the unlawful possession of a firearm, concealed carry violations and using a weapon in a manner deemed harmful or threatening. We will work diligently to determine the facts of your case and use those facts to plan a solid defense strategy that can hold up against the arguments of the prosecution. Our team will handle every aspect of your case with the comprehensive care it deserves.
It is critical to act now and secure experienced legal counsel. For many weapons charges cases, the timely intervention of a legal professional can make all the difference in the outcome of the case. The experienced attorneys at The Valley Law Group can help you navigate the complexities of weapons charges cases and offer you the best possible chance at a successful outcome. Let us help you fight for your freedoms and secure your future.
Understanding Weapons Charges in Arizona
Weapons charges in the state of Arizona can be difficult to understand, especially for those individuals who are not familiar with the unique laws that surround them. The Valley Law Group’s skilled team of gun crime lawyers can educate you on the charges you might be facing and the penalties that could come along with a possible conviction.
Weapons charges in Arizona can include one or several of the following:
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
This charge can arise when an individual is allegedly found to be in possession of a firearm without legal authorization, often due to mental health condition restrictions or prior felony convictions.
Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Crime
This charge can occur due to circumstances in which an individual is allegedly in possession of a weapon while also engaging in illegal activities, which can lead to further penalties depending on the activities in question.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit
This charge can occur when an individual is allegedly found to be carrying a hidden firearm without the required permit. This is a violation of Arizona gun laws regarding concealed carry.
Using a Weapon in a Threatening Manner
This charge can arise when an individual allegedly brandishes a weapon or uses it to instill fear or intimidate another person. Threatening another individual with a weapon can lead to serious legal penalties.
Misconduct Involving a Weapon
Misconduct charges can occur when an individual engages in acts like carrying a weapon onto public transport, failing to answer promptly to law enforcement if they are indeed carrying a concealed weapon, possessing, manufacturing, selling, or transporting a prohibited weapon, defacing a deadly weapon, possessing a deadly weapon on the grounds of a school, or using this deadly weapon in the act of terrorism, and many more.
Unlawful Discharge of a Weapon
A charge of this nature can arise when an individual allegedly discharges a weapon in a negligent fashion.
Penalties for weapons charges typically range in severity and are often dependent on the following aggravating factors:
- Whether the alleged offender has any previous convictions
- Whether the alleged offense involved a minor child
- Whether the alleged offense resulted in death or bodily injury
Charges may include the following penalties, depending on the unique circumstances of the case:
- Loss of gun ownership rights
- Class 3 misdemeanor offenses, which can result in jail time of up to 30 days and fines totaling $500
- Class 1 misdemeanor offenses, which result in jail time of up to six months and fines totaling $2,500
- Class 6, Class 4, Class 3, or Class 2 felony offenses, which all result in varying prison terms
It is important to remember that felony offenders may also be required to pay up to $150,000 in fines due to a weapons conviction. This is why it is essential that you hire the services of a compassionate and effective gun crime lawyer with extensive experience handling similar charges. These charges can have devastating consequences, and the prosecution will take their job seriously. You deserve legal counsel and representation who is ready to take your freedoms just as seriously.
Our Comprehensive Weapons Charges Defense Services
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The process will begin with a thorough and detail-oriented consultation. You will meet with our gun charge attorneys so we can examine every aspect of your case, including listening to your side of the story with understanding and compassion. This will help us gain a complete picture of the case at hand and allow us to begin building the base for your defense.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
We will then move on to our own investigation of the circumstances of your alleged crime. We can gather our own evidence that will ensure your defense withstands the prosecution and creates an effective argument against their efforts. This evidence can come in the form of police reports, eyewitness statements, or any surveillance footage that pertains to the case. Our investigation will enable your attorney to develop a personalized defense strategy.
Negotiation with Prosecutors
A significant component of what we do at The Valley Law Group involves negotiating with the prosecution team assigned to our clients’ cases. With our knowledge and expertise regarding a wide range of criminal law strategies, we can work toward reducing the charges brought against you or seek alternative sentencing methods.
Court Representation
You will require formidable representation if your case moves to a trial. In these situations, your weapons charges lawyer can advocate for you, presenting your case before the judge and arguing in your defense. With our extensive experience in courtroom litigation, we can offer you the best possible chance at a successful outcome.
Post-Conviction Support
Regardless of the outcome of your case, when you reach the post-trial stage, we are here to help. If you seek an expungement of your record or an appeal of the court’s decision, our attorneys can use our extensive resources and experience to navigate any consequences that might arise from a conviction. At the end of the day, our priority is helping you get your life back on track.
The Legal Process for Weapons Charges
Arrest and Booking
Following your arrest, you will be taken to the police station and formally booked into their system. This process often involves fingerprinting, photographing, and the gathering of your personal information. It is wise, at this time, to stay calm and cooperate, but do not make any sort of statement or admit to any fault or guilt until you have consulted with an attorney who understands and is ready to uphold your Arizona gun rights.
Arraignment
You will then be formally charged and asked to submit a plea of either guilty, not guilty, or no contest. It is imperative for your attorney to be present at this appearance so that they can submit the best plea in your case.
Pre-Trial Business
After your arraignment appearance, your attorney will work to exchange evidence and file motions with the prosecution team. It is essential that you stay in close contact with your attorney at this time so that you can provide any information they deem necessary.
Plea Bargaining or Negotiation
Your attorney may request a reduction in the charges brought against you or pursue alternative routes to your sentence by negotiating with the prosecution. At this time, it is best for you to trust that your attorney has your interests in mind while negotiating.
Trial
If your case should go to trial, your attorney will present the defense crafted on your behalf, provide the necessary evidence, and cross-examine any potential witnesses. The judge and/or jury will then reach a verdict. It is imperative that you are present at this court date and that you let your attorney do their job.
Sentencing
The judge will then hand down their sentence if you are found guilty. In this situation, it is best for you to remain calm and cooperative while showing remorse. This can help you should an appeal become necessary in the future.
Post-Conviction Care
In some cases, your attorney might be able to file an appeal or seek an expungement of your record. The best thing for you to do during this time is to follow all court orders and trust that your attorney is working on your behalf with your interests and future in mind.
Weapons Charges Frequently Asked Questions
If you are faced with weapons charges, you undoubtedly have a wide range of questions. We have addressed the most commonly asked questions below.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or someone you love is facing weapons charges, seeking the necessary legal counsel is the wisest first step. Instead of wondering, “Is there a gun crime lawyer near me?” reach out to the team with the experience and expertise necessary to achieve a positive outcome in your case. At The Valley Law Group, your defense is our priority. We will work diligently to ensure that every potential avenue to preserve your freedom is explored.
Contact the offices of The Valley Law Group today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.