Firearm Offense Attorney Grand Rapids, MI

If you are facing firearm-related charges, you need a strong defense. Firearm offenses can range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. The consequences can be severe, including steep fines and jail time. Having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial.

I am defense attorney Chris Wirth, founder of Core Legal PLC. I have nearly 20 years of experience defending people in the state and federal courts of Michigan. I will fight vigorously against gun and weapon charges and protect your rights. Contact me online or call 1-616-855-2145 to discuss your case with an experienced gun charge lawyer.

Types of Firearm Offenses Core Legal PLC, Defends Against

At Core Legal PLC, I provide aggressive criminal defense for a wide array of Michigan and federal firearm offenses, such as:

Unlawful possession of a firearm
Unlawful discharge of a firearm
Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
Possession of a stolen firearm
Felon in possession of a firearm
Assault with a deadly weapon
Illegal alteration of a firearm

Each of these charges carries its own potential penalties. For example, unlawful possession of a firearm could lead to significant fines and jail time. Felon in possession of a firearm is a serious felony with even harsher penalties. It is essential to understand the charges you are facing and the potential consequences.

The Second Amendment and Firearm Offenses

The Second Amendment guarantees the right to bear arms. However, this right can be limited under certain circumstances. For example, individuals convicted of a felony lose this constitutional protection. Understanding the balance between the Second Amendment and state or federal firearm laws could be crucial to your defense. As your gun charge lawyer, I can help determine if your activities were lawful under the Second Amendment or if you have a constitutional defense.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Gun Crimes

As an experienced gun charge lawyer, I answer a lot of questions about weapon and firearm offenses. Here are the answers to a few common ones:

What Is the Penalty for Carrying a Gun Without a Permit in Michigan?

In Michigan, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is a serious offense. It is considered a felony and can result in severe penalties. If convicted, you could face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $2,500.

Additionally, a conviction could lead to a permanent criminal record, affecting your future employment and other opportunities. It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable gun charges defense lawyer to understand your rights and options if you are facing this charge.

Can You Get a Gun Charge Dismissed or Reduced?

Yes, it is possible to get a gun charge dismissed or reduced, but it depends on the specifics of your case. As your attorney, I will carefully examine the evidence and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. I may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction in charges or even a dismissal. In some cases,

I have successfully defended clients by challenging unlawful searches, questioning the credibility of witnesses or proving that my clients’ rights were violated. Each case is unique, so it is crucial to have an experienced gun charge lawyer on your side.

How Can a Lawyer Help With Gun Charge Defense?

A criminal defense lawyer for gun charges can provide invaluable assistance with gun charge defense. First, I will thoroughly review the details of your case and the evidence against you. I will identify any legal issues, such as violations of your constitutional rights, that could lead to a dismissal or reduction of charges. I will also negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf and represent you in court.

My goal is to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation. Having an experienced gun charges defense lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Federal Gun Charges

Many firearms offenses in Michigan can result in charges under 18 U.S.C. §922, which cover the unlawful acts involving firearms under federal law. Some of the most frequently charged subsections of §922 include the following.

Subsection (a)

This subsection makes it illegal for anyone other than a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer to import, manufacture, deal in firearms, transport, ship, or receive firearms or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce, including to ship any firearm to a party other than another licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector. It also makes it illegal for any person to acquire or attempt to acquire a firearm or ammunition from a licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector by making a false statement or providing false identification intended to deceive the licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector as to the lawfulness of the sale (i.e., making a “straw purchase”).

Subsection (b)

This subsection makes it illegal for a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer to sell or deliver:

A firearm or ammunition to anyone they know or believe is under 18
A handgun or handgun ammunition to anyone they know or believe is under 21
A firearm to a person whose purchase would violate a state law or published ordinance
A firearm to someone they know or believe does not reside in the licensee’s state

Subsection (d)

This subsection prohibits the sale or transfer of firearms to “prohibited persons,” including:

Anyone who has a conviction or who is under indictment for any crime punishable by more than one year of incarceration
A fugitive from justice
An unlawful user of or addict to a controlled substance
Anyone adjudicated incompetent or who has been committed to a mental institution at any time after turning 16
A foreign national unlawfully present in the U.S.
A foreign national admitted to the U.S. under a non-immigrant visa
Any person dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces
Any person who has renounced their U.S. citizenship
Any person subject to a domestic violence restraining order
Any person with a prior conviction for domestic violence
Anyone who intends to sell or dispose of the firearm in furtherance of a felony, drug trafficking crime, or act of terrorism, or to a prohibited person

Subsection (e)

This subsection makes it a crime to knowingly deliver firearms or ammunition to a common or contract carrier (for example, an airline or a bus company) for transportation in interstate or foreign commerce to anyone other than a licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector. However, someone who legally owns a firearm may transport it with them via common carrier by delivering it to the custody of the carrier—for example, transporting an unloaded firearm in checked airline luggage.

Subsection (g)

This subsection makes it illegal for a prohibited person to ship, transport, or receive a firearm in interstate commerce or possess a firearm in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce.

Subsection (o)

This subsection prohibits the possession or transfer of machine guns, except those manufactured and possessed before May 19, 1986, and registered with the ATF.

How Federal Cases Differ From State Cases

Federal law typically imposes harsher penalties for firearms offenses than state law. Under §924, penalties for violating §922 can lead to prison terms of one to 15 years, depending on the specific subsection of §922 that a defendant violated. For example, violating Subsection (g) – the prohibited persons offense – can lead to a prison sentence of up to 15 years, as well as a potential fine. Making a “straw purchase” can result in a sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Section 924 also imposes additional penalties for possessing, brandishing, or discharging a firearm during a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime.

Contact Core Legal PLC, Today to Discuss Your Case

Choosing the right gun charges defense lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. With my extensive experience, I can provide you with the defense you need. I will thoroughly examine the evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case. My goal is to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome for you, if possible.

If you are facing firearm-related charges in Michigan or federal court, contact Core Legal PLC. I am here to help you through this challenging time. Call 1-616-855-2145 or contact me online to discuss your defense. My office is in Grand Rapids, and I represent clients throughout Western Michigan.