Despite the protections of the Second Amendment, there are many federal laws that limit the use of firearms throughout the country. These regulations prohibit the possession of certain guns and regulate the sale of others. A conviction on these charges can carry steep consequences, including time in federal prison.
If the police arrested you on firearm-related charges, a determined defense attorney at Berry Law can help you fight back against these allegations. Contact a Bellevue federal gun lawyer to start building your defense today.
Federal Gun Charges Bellevue Residents May Face
There are several federal statutes related to the ownership, use, and sale of firearms. An experienced attorney can advise Bellevue residents of the most common federal gun offenses.
Altering or Removing a Serial Number
Federal law requires firearm manufacturers to assign a serial number to every gun they make. Law enforcement officers use these numbers to investigate alleged crimes involving firearms.
If federal prosecutors suspect someone has removed the serial number on his or her gun to avoid detection, they will likely bring forth charges. According to 18 U.S.C. § 922(k), it is unlawful not only to alter or remove these serial numbers but to knowingly deliver, transport, or possess a gun lacking an accurate serial number as well.
Illegal Possession of a Gun
Certain weapons are illegal to own unless the individual has specialized permits. The most common example of an unauthorized weapon is the machine gun. Under federal law, a “machine gun” is a weapon that can fire more than one round with only a single trigger pull. Possessing or owning these weapons without a specific license is a federal crime under 8 U.S.C. § 922(o).
Selling Guns Without a License
One of the most common gun offenses involves selling firearms without the appropriate license. Prosecutors often use these charges against individuals who sell firearms over state lines without authorization. Federal officers can even penalize licensed gun owners for unauthorized sales.
Other reasons for this type of charge include selling firearms to minors or individuals suspected of using a false identity. A conviction for selling guns without a license could lead to five years in federal prison. Because many of these offenses have serious consequences, hiring an experienced trial lawyer is one of the best decisions you can make after receiving a federal gun charge.
Defending Against Federal Charges Related to Firearms
There are many potential defenses to gun charges. However, it is essential to remember that your argument must be specific to your case. A Bellevue attorney can review the facts of your arrest and advise you on how to build the strongest possible defense to your federal firearm charges. Some common arguments include:
- Illegal search and seizure
- Unlawful traffic stop
- Unknowing violation of federal law
- Mistaken identity
At Berry Law, we can work with you to determine the best strategy in your situation.
Contact a Bellevue Federal Gun Attorney Today
There are many different approaches to defending against federal gun charges, but retaining the right attorney is key to any case. The federal government will not hesitate to use all its resources to convict you. A relentless lawyer can defend your rights and level the playing field against the federal government.
Do not approach your defense strategy alone. Contact a Bellevue federal gun lawyer as soon as possible to schedule a confidential case consultation.
