Stamford Gun Lawyer
If you’re facing gun-related charges, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible. Connecticut’s gun laws are ever-changing and often difficult to understand. Whether you are worried about potential charges or facing them currently, read more to learn how a lawyer can help.
What Are the Requirements to Own a Gun in Stamford?
Connecticut has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, and after the 2012 Sandy Hook tragedy they grew even stricter, however, it is possible to legally purchase and carry a gun. Some persons, however, are automatically ineligible to legally possess a firearm in Connecticut, including convicted felons, illegal aliens, and former juvenile delinquents convicted of offenses like possession of a controlled substance, assault, or negligent homicide.
To buy a handgun in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes §29-36f, the prospective purchaser must be at least 21 years old, and they must apply for and receive a handgun eligibility certificate from the Commissioner of Public Safety, which remains valid for five years after issuance. Generally, they must also complete safety training, submit to fingerprinting, and pay various fees as well, although certain exceptions are available for members of law enforcement, service members in the Armed Forces, and individuals with hunting licenses.
Finally, Stamford residents must acquire permits from their local town hall or police department if they wish to open carry or concealed carry a handgun on their person outside of their home or vehicle, or if they want to transport a handgun over any distance. Failure to abide by these rules could land you in handcuffs facing charges for illegal possession of a firearm.
Can I Contest The Charges?
With few exceptions, most criminal offenses that involve the illegal possession, brandishing, or discharging of a firearm are classified as a felony under Connecticut state law, meaning that a conviction could be punished by several years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. Some of the most common types of charges that gun lawyers see in Stamford include:
- G.S. §29-28 – selling a handgun at retail without a dealer permit, a class E felony
- G.S. §29-31 – selling a handgun at retail to a person without valid identification and/or credentials, a class E felony
- G.S. §29-35 – carrying a handgun without a permit, a class D felony
- G.S. §53-202c – illegally possessing an assault weapon, a Class D felony under most circumstances
- G.S. §53-203 – unlawfully discharging a firearm, a class C misdemeanor
- G.S. §53-206d – carrying a loaded firearm while intoxicated, a class B misdemeanor
The presence of a firearm can also enhance the severity of other criminal offenses. For instance, someone convicted of burglary in the second degree with a firearm under C.G.S. §53a-102a would face the same penalties commensurate with a class C felony that they would for standard second-degree burglary, but at least one year of their prison sentence would be ineligible for suspension or reduction by the court.
Talk to a Stamford Gun Attorney Today
At Mark Sherman Law we understand the importance of safeguarding your reputation and we are dedicated to helping our clients do just that. Check out Avvo.com to read more about our firm and to see our over 300 certified 5-star client reviews. Call today to discuss how a seasoned attorney could help you if you were arrested for a firearm offense.