Are you facing weapons charges in Prince George’s County, MD? Our experienced Prince George’s County Weapons charges lawyer understands the seriousness of your situation and is here to help. Call Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys at (301) 936-0011 to get a free consultation tofay.
We know this charges can feel overwhelming and stressful and you may be worried about your future and unsure of what to do next. We will carefully explain your legal options and provide you with the strong representation you need.
You don’t have to face this difficult time alone. If you have any questions about criminal charges schedule a free consultation with our team today.
How Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help If You’re Arrested For Weapons Charges
If you’re facing weapons charges in Prince George’s County, MD, it’s important to get legal help as soon as possible. Here’s how our team will assist:
- Our attorneys will explain your charges clearly so you understand what you’re facing, your options, and the next steps.
- We will carefully review your arrest and all the evidence against you to build the strongest possible defense.
- We’ll challenge any violations of your rights, such as improper search procedures or illegal police stops related to your weapons charges.
- We’ll negotiate on your behalf to reduce your charges, minimize penalties, or possibly get your case dismissed.
Let us help you with the charges you’re facing in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Prince George’s County weapons charges attorney.
Overview of Weapons Charges in Maryland
If you’re charged with a weapons offense in Maryland, it’s important to understand some basic facts about state laws and restrictions. Maryland is known for strict laws relating to weapons, but these laws can also be complicated and confusing. Here’s an overview of some commonly violated charges:
Dangerous Weapon Possession
Maryland has strict rules when it comes to possessing dangerous weapons such as knives, martial arts weapons, and pepper spray. While certain knives, like folding knives or penknives, are permitted, switchblades, bowie knives, dirk knives, and star knives are not.
Pepper spray and Mace can be legally owned and carried for personal defense purposes, but misuse could still lead to criminal charges. Additionally, it is illegal in Maryland to possess clubs, brass knuckles, nunchaku, and similar martial arts weapons.
Firearm Possession by a Disqualified Person
Many individuals – not just convicted felons – can be prohibited from owning guns. This includes people with specific misdemeanor convictions, drug addictions, mental health disorders, or outstanding warrants. Even if you received probation before judgment (PBJ), you might still be considered a “convicted” person under firearm laws and could face charges for illegally possessing a firearm.
Child’s Access to Firearms
Maryland laws emphasize the safe storage of firearms to prevent children from being injured. It is illegal to store or leave a loaded gun where an unsupervised child could easily find or access it. However, these laws don’t specifically detail how firearms should be securely stored. This vagueness can make it challenging for prosecutors to clearly prove wrongdoing, giving your attorney room to effectively defend your case.
Concealed Handgun Laws
Maryland handgun laws are among the toughest in the country. You cannot legally carry a concealed gun in Maryland without first obtaining a special permit, which can be very difficult to get. Transporting a handgun in your car without the right permit can also lead to criminal charges unless you meet specific requirements, like keeping the firearm unloaded, locked in a protective case, and out of your immediate reach.
Additionally, out-of-state concealed carry permits aren’t recognized in Maryland, meaning even military members or travelers from other states can unintentionally break the law.
What Are the Penalties for Weapons Charges in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
If you’re facing weapons charges in Maryland, penalties can vary significantly depending on what type of charge you face and the circumstances involved. Examples of penalties include:
Dangerous Weapon Possession
If you’re convicted for having certain illegal weapons such as switchblades, martial arts weapons, or brass knuckles, you could spend up to three years in jail. You might also have to pay a fine of up to $1,000.
Firearm Possession by a Disqualified Person
The penalties depend on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony.
Misdemeanor Violations
You might be charged with misdemeanor possession of a firearm when you are a disqualified person. These charges can lead to up to 2 years in prison. Each firearm you possess could lead to a sentence of up to three years in jail.
Felony Violations
If you have previous convictions for serious crimes such as robbery, assault, manslaughter, or certain drug crimes, having a firearm becomes a felony in Maryland. Penalties in these cases are tough. You could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Child’s Access to Firearms
If a firearm is left loaded and easily accessible where a child can get hold of it, you can face serious consequences. This type of violation is considered a misdemeanor, and the fines can reach up to $1,000. Often, prosecutors will also charge you with reckless endangerment. That additional charge can increase penalties and include potential jail time.
Given the serious penalties involved, having strong legal representation is important if you’re facing any weapons-related charges in Maryland.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Weapons Charges?
If you’ve been charged with a weapons offense in Maryland, several defenses might apply in your case, depending on your specific situation. Here are some common defenses that your lawyer might explore to the above charges:
Lack of Knowledge
In cases involving a child’s access to firearms, prosecutors must prove that you knew or should have known the firearm was accessible to a child. You may have a strong defense if your attorney can show you reasonably believed the firearm was securely stored or locked away.
Illegal Search or Seizure
A common defense for firearm or dangerous weapons charges is that law enforcement officers found the weapon during an unlawful search. Police must follow clear legal guidelines before searching your car, home, or personal belongings. If the search wasn’t lawful, your attorney can challenge it in court and potentially stop prosecutors from using evidence obtained illegally against you.
Weapon Not Actually in Your Possession
If you’re a person prohibited from possessing a firearm, prosecutors must show the firearm was actually in your possession or under your control. If the weapon belonged to someone else or was found nearby but not specifically under your control, you may have grounds to fight this charge. Showing that you didn’t knowingly have access to or control of the gun can be an effective defense in these cases.
Valid Legal Purpose for Possession
Some dangerous weapons, such as certain knives or pepper sprays, can be legally owned if you have a valid reason, such as work use or personal defense. If your situation qualifies, your lawyer may argue that you possessed these items legally. Providing clear evidence of your purpose in carrying these items is essential to prove this defense.
Because weapons charges carry heavy consequences in Maryland, it’s important that you get a thorough review of your case from an experienced defense attorney who understands these defenses.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Prince George’s County Weapons Charges Lawyer
Facing weapons charges in Prince George’s County, Maryland, can be unsettling and confusing. The laws are strict, and penalties can affect your life in very serious ways. Because every case is different, it’s important to get legal help early on from a skilled defense lawyer. Our attorneys understand what you’re going through and will work hard to protect your rights. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Prince George’s County weapons charges lawyer.