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Penalties and Punishments for Weapons Charges in New York
WEAPONS CHARGES IN NEW YORK
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If you’re on our website, it’s because you’re in legal trouble – and need the best criminal defense attorney. At Spodek Law Group, we understand that weapons charges in New York can be extremely serious. Our only goal is to protect your future and give you the best possible legal representation.
PENALTIES AND PUNISHMENTS
New York has very strict laws when it comes to firearms and other dangerous instruments. These types of offenses typically fall under Article 265 of the New York Penal Law. Depending on the specifics of your case, you could be charged with offenses like Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree or Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree. The consequences of a conviction can haunt you.
Regardless of which weapons offense you’re facing, here are some potential punishments you might see:
- Felony Convictions: You could face anywhere from 1 year to 25 years in prison, depending on the degree of the charge.
- Mandatory Minimums: Certain gun crimes come with mandatory prison terms that cannot be negotiated.
- Fines and Restitution: You may be required to pay substantial fines which can reach thousands of dollars.
- Permanent Criminal Record: A felony conviction can impact your ability to get a job, find housing, or hold certain professional licenses.
TOP RATED CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS
We are available 24/7 to provide a risk free consultation. Our team of New York criminal defense lawyers has over 50 years of combined experience. We have offices throughout Long Island and NYC, and can help you regardless of the charges you’re facing.
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If you’re looking to hire a criminal defense attorney, it’s likely the Spodek Law Group is on your radar – and capable of winning your case. You just need to take the first step and reach out to us.
WHAT COUNTS AS A WEAPONS OFFENSE IN NEW YORK
Some examples of weapons offenses in New York include:
- Illegal Possession of a Loaded Firearm
- Possession of a Weapon with Intent to Use
- Unlawful Sale of Firearms
- Possession of “Prohibited” Weapons, such as switchblades, brass knuckles, or large-capacity ammunition feeding devices
See more on the New York City Administrative Code for local regulations and potential penalties.
WHY A WEAPONS CONVICTION IS LIFE-CHANGING
If you’re convicted of a weapons offense can lead to more than just jail/prison time or fines. You could lose career opportunities, face immigration consequences (if you’re not a U.S. citizen), and lose the right to possess firearms in the future.
STRATEGIES OF HOW WE’D DEFEND YOU
UNLAWFUL SEARCH AND SEIZURE
We often argue that any evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure in violation of the Fourth Amendment must be excluded. If the police or federal authorities found a weapon without proper justification or a valid warrant, we use that to get charges dismissed or reduced.
LACK OF KNOWLEDGE OR INTENT
We will try to argue you did not knowingly possess the weapon—especially in situations where it was found in a shared space or vehicle. If you had no control or awareness of the weapon’s presence, that is a strong argument in your defense.
SELF-DEFENSE EXCEPTION
In some cases, using a weapon might be justified if you acted in self-defense or in the defense of others. It’s crucial to show that you reasonably feared imminent harm.
MITIGATION AND PLEA BARGAINING
If the evidence is dense against you, our team of top criminal lawyers can negotiate with the prosecutor to get you a plea deal involving reduced charges, lesser sentences, or alternative sentencing options like probation.
WE CAN HELP YOU
If you’re accused of a weapons offense in NYC or anywhere in the state, it’s essential to contact a criminal defense attorney who understands the law. At Spodek Law Group, we have over 50 years of combined experience handling difficult state and federal cases.
POTENTIAL DEFENSE OUTCOMES
- Dismissal: We aim to poke holes in the prosecution’s case, potentially leading to a full dismissal of your charges.
- Reduced Charges: Negotiation with the district attorney to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor or lower.
- No Jail Time: Instead of incarceration, we strive for probation, community service, or other creative sentencing solutions.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY
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We are available 24/7, to provide a risk free consultation about your weapons charges. Let’s discuss the facts of your case and explore the legal options available.
Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, know that our criminal defense attorneys can help you.
CONTACT SPODEK LAW GROUP
Call us now at 888-997-5177.
Email us or fill out our online form.
Underline your future by choosing the right defense attorney. Our NYC criminal lawyers have a track record of success.
We have offices throughout Long Island and NYC. We provide white-glove service, and we’re unafraid to fight for you. If you’re ready to take the next step, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about how we can help.