Defending People Against Gun Charges in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, strict laws govern firearms possession, distribution, carrying, and use. Violating these laws can result in severe consequences, including potential imprisonment and fines. If you face charges for a gun offense in Worcester County or elsewhere in Massachusetts, turn to Geraghty Law.
We have in-depth knowledge of state and federal gun laws and a proven track record of defending people’s right to bear arms. Although you may feel concerned about your charges, don’t give up hope. There are numerous effective defenses for gun crimes, and we will exhaust every option for reducing or dropping them.
Trust Geraghty Law to stand by you and protect your rights at every step. Contact us today to consult with an experienced gun crimes attorney.
Types of Gun Crimes in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, it is a criminal offense to:
- Possess an unlicensed or illegal gun of any kind
- Carry a shotgun or rifle on a street, sidewalk, or other public area
- Discharge a firearm within 500 feet of a residence
- Carry a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
This is an incomplete list of gun crimes in Massachusetts. Moreover, gun offenses can also be aggravating factors for other criminal charges. For example, carrying a firearm while committing a drug crime can increase the severity of the consequences of a conviction.
Massachusetts Gun Licensing Laws
Anyone who wants to carry or use a gun in Worcester County and across the state must obtain a license. Class A licenses allow people to possess and carry large-capacity handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The state defines a “large capacity” gun as:
- An assault rifle
- A shotgun that can have more than five shells in its case
- A handgun or rifle that can load more than ten rounds of ammunition
- A semiautomatic gun with a large capacity feeding device or the ability to accept one
Class A licenses permit concealed carry. Class B licenses allow the possession and transportation of non-large-capacity firearms, but they do not allow the concealed carry of a loaded gun. Lastly, a Firearms Identification (FID) Card lets individuals possess non-large-capacity rifles and shotguns.
To obtain a gun license, applicants must undergo a background check and safety course. Those who have been convicted of a felony, domestic violence, or any violent crime are generally prohibited from obtaining a license. The same is true for those who were convicted of a misdemeanor and served a 2-year prison sentence or those convicted of using, possessing, or selling a controlled substance.
Gun Crime Penalties in Massachusetts
Gun crime convictions can come with hefty consequences. Penalties include:
- Possessing an illegal firearm, such as a machine gun, carries a minimum mandatory sentence of 18 months that could extend to life in prison.
- Possessing a firearm without a license could lead to up to 2 years in jail and a fine of $500.
- Carrying a gun while under the influence of drugs or alcohol could result in two and a half years in jail and $5,000 in fines.
The sooner you start with Geraghty Law, the sooner we can begin building your defense and protecting your rights. The state vigorously prosecutes these offenses, and you need an experienced gun crimes attorney in Worcester to fight back aggressively.
How Geraghty Law Can Help
At Geraghty Law, we understand facing gun crime charges in Worcester County is daunting. Our team will thoroughly investigate the charges and look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Whether challenging a search’s legality or questioning the evidence’s validity, we work tirelessly to craft a solid defense.
With years of experience in private practice, Conor Geraghty knows what it takes to fight against aggressive prosecution. As a former prosecutor, he understands how the state builds its case and uses that insight to protect your rights at every step.
From reducing charges to getting cases dismissed, we will provide the strategic defense you need to safeguard your future. Don’t wait—reach out to Geraghty Law today for a consultation.