Hinesville Weapons Charges Lawyer

While you’re allowed to handle legal cases involving a firearm on your own, it’s recommended to work with an attorney. Building a defense against a weapons charge can be complicated and time-consuming. A skilled defense lawyer can keep you on track and develop a strategy that secures you a fair outcome for your case.

A Quick Look at Georgia Gun Laws

Georgia is ranked #46 in the country for gun law strength, making it a state with some of the weakest gun laws. Adults in Georgia don’t need a permit to purchase a gun. However, they do need a permit to carry the weapon in public. This means that any adult can possess a gun on their own property, including in their homes, vehicles, or places of business.

You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a weapons carry license in Liberty County. If you’re on active duty in the military, you may get the license when you are 18 years or older. This license is valid for five years unless revoked by a court order.

Typically, weapons charges for firearms fall under one of three categories: possession of a weapon, use of a weapon, or manufacturing and sale of a weapon. It’s important to understand your rights regarding both as a gun owner in Hinesville.

Can You Own a Firearm After Receiving a Weapons Charge in Hinesville, GA?

Your right to own a gun can change after receiving a weapons charge. Depending on the nature of the crime and the specific charges, you may be prohibited from owning a gun ever again. That said, the specific penalties depend on the details of the case, so it’s important to do your research and understand your rights.

In Georgia, misdemeanor gun charges can impact your ability to own a gun. Not all misdemeanor charges can affect your gun rights, but misdemeanors related to any form of family violence – or violence, in general – are likely to make an impact. A felony conviction almost always prohibits someone from owning or possessing a firearm in Georgia.

Georgia Code § 16-11-131 states that convicted felons and first-time offenders on probation cannot be in possession of a firearm. Violating this rule is punishable by anywhere from one to 10 years in prison. You also cannot own or possess a firearm if you are found mentally incompetent and are unable to stand trial or are found not guilty by reason of insanity.

The First Offender Act offers a potential avenue to restore your gun rights in Georgia. This law allows individuals with no prior felony convictions to enter a guilty or no-contest plea without getting a formal conviction on their record.

If you’re convicted under this act, you may be able to argue for your gun ownership rights. You may also be able to petition for retroactive first-offender status if you weren’t officially convicted under the act at the time of your case.

How Can a Hinesville Weapons Charges Lawyer Help Me?

Liberty County is home to about 68,607 people, and Georgia’s lax gun laws can pose a serious risk for every citizen. While the gun laws in the state are loose, Georgia courts are known for handling weapons charges harshly. This is why it’s beneficial to work with a skilled attorney.

A Hinesville weapons charges lawyer can evaluate your case and build a strong defense that gives you a fair chance in court. Moreover, they can represent you throughout your case and help you make challenging decisions along the way.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Hinesville Weapons Charges Lawyer Cost?

A: A Hinesville weapons charges lawyer is a type of criminal defense attorney. These types of lawyers typically charge either a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a retainer fee, depending on the details of your case. The overall cost to work with an attorney can vary depending on the types of charges you’re up against. Felonies are typically more complex and can be more expensive overall. The experience and reputation of your attorney can also affect their pricing.

Q: Can I Get Rid of a Gun Charge on My Record in Hinesville?

A: It’s possible to have gun charges removed from your record, but the charges must meet certain requirements. You’ll file your request and any additional information needed, and the Bureau of Investigation’s Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) will process the request.

If you were arrested before July 1, 2013, you must submit the form to the arresting agency first. Otherwise, submit everything directly to the prosecuting attorney’s office. You can expect the process to take between two and three weeks.

Q: How Many Years Can I Serve for a Gun Charge in Hinesville?

A: It’s possible to serve time for a conviction on gun charges in Hinesville. The time you’re sentenced depends on the severity of the crime and whether or not it’s a first-time offense. Typically, in addition to confinement, you can expect additional penalties in the form of both fines and probation.

Q: Is a Weapons Charge a Misdemeanor or a Felony in Hinesville?

A: Weapons charges can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony in Georgia, depending on the kind of weapon, the intent to use the weapon, and any prior criminal offenses. That said, the majority of weapons charges are felonies. An example of a misdemeanor gun charge would be carrying a weapon in an unauthorized location, like a courthouse or a place of worship.

Reach Out to a Hinesville Weapons Charges Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in More Detail

If you’re facing a weapons charge in Georgia, our team at the offices of Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. can help. We can evaluate your case and develop a personalized strategy that ensures you’re treated fairly throughout the legal proceedings. Contact our office to set up an appointment today.