Gun Offenses

Worcester Gun Crimes Defense Lawyer 

Experienced Defense Against Gun Crime Charges in Massachusetts

The right to bear arms has been fundamental for the people of the United States for well over two centuries. However, it has certain limitations. In Massachusetts, there are strict laws concerning the possession, distribution, carrying, and use of firearms. Violating any of these laws can result in severe consequences that could impact your right to bear arms and many other aspects of your life. 

If you are facing charges for a gun offense in Worcester County or elsewhere in Massachusetts, you need a lawyer that can advocate for your rights and freedoms. At Geraghty Law, I am just that attorney. In my time practicing law, I have represented hundreds of clients as both a defending and prosecuting attorney. I know what it takes to make a successful case in court and use this knowledge every day to serve the clients who have trusted their cases with me. 

To schedule a free, 30-minute consultation to discuss your situation and learn about what I can offer you, reach out today. Although you may feel concerned about your charges, this is not a reason to give up hope. There are numerous effective defenses for gun crimes, and I will exhaust every option for reducing your charges or having them dropped. 

For a gun crimes defense attorney in Worcester that will fight for you, call (508) 298-3926 or send a message online. 

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 gun within 500 feet of a residence. 
  • Carry a gun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

The above is an incomplete list of gun crimes in Massachusetts. It is important to note that gun offenses can also be aggravating factors for other criminal charges. For example, carrying a firearm while committing a drug, domestic violence, or theft 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 Massachusetts needs to 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 10 rounds of ammunition. 
  • A semiautomatic gun with a large capacity feeding device or the ability to accept one. 

Class A licenses permit a person to concealed carry. Class B licenses allow the possession and transportation of non-large-capacity firearms, but they do not allow for the concealed carry of a loaded firearm. 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 complete a safety course. Those who have been convicted of a felony or any domestic violence and 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. 

What are the Penalties for Gun Crimes in Massachusetts?

Gun crime convictions can come with hefty consequences.  

Some examples of these 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. 

Do not wait to contact my office if you are facing gun charges. The sooner you start with Geraghty Law, the sooner I can begin building your defense and protecting your rights. The state works hard to prosecute these types of offenses, so turn to a gun crimes attorney in Worcester who will fight aggressively on your behalf. 

I am available 24/7 and offer free, 30-minute consultations. Call (508) 298-3926 or contact my office online to start your defense now.

Testimonials

Hear from former clients
    "I could not have gone through this without him and I am truly grateful for all his hard work and dedication to my case."
    Conor was a phenomenal attorney. He was very professional and talented. He responded promptly to my phone calls and e-mails and was always there with my questions.
    - Former Client
    "I am grateful for his outstanding representation and unwavering support throughout my case."
    I cannot express enough how impressed I was with his legal expertise, dedication, and professionalism throughout the entire process. Conor Geraghty worked tirelessly to prepare my defense, and his attention to detail and knowledge of the law were evident.
    - Mario C.
    "In the end, I was able to secure the best possible outcome for my situation, and I couldn't have done it without him."
    From our initial consultation onward, Conor was a reliable presence for me throughout an emotionally-challenging two-month span. He promptly returned every one of my calls, texts and emails, making me feel supported in my time of greatest need.
    - Former Client