The conviction of any crime has the potential to alter certain aspects of your life, especially if the crime carries a potential penalty of jail time. Federal charges are particularly serious as a conviction will likely lead to time in a federal facility. Any amount of time behind bars is a threat to your future, and it is in your interests to present a strong defense regardless of the nature of the specific charges you are facing.
Certain types of weapon-related charges are federal offenses, and they carry the potential for serious penalties. While the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution grants you the right to bear arms, there are also strict limits to who is able to possess and carry a gun. It may be in your interests to learn more about the National Firearm Act, Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act and other gun laws that could have an impact on your case.
Who can own and carry a gun?
You could face federal criminal charges for violating certain gun laws, even if it was an unintentional violation. Federal laws can determine who can have a gun, as well as the types of firearms that California residents can own. Many own a firearm for their personal protection in their home or place of business, but the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act limits who can own a gun for these reasons. This act prohibits individuals in the following categories from owning a gun for personal or business purposes:
- Those convicted of a crime punishable by at least one year in prison
- Someone dishonorably discharged from the United States Armed Services
- An individual addicted to or improperly using an illegal or controlled substance
- A fugitive from the law
- Someone who renounced his or her U.S. citizenship
- An individual convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense
- Illegal aliens living in the United States without the proper permission
If you are facing charges due to a violation of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act or any other federal gun law, you would be wise to take immediate action to develop a strong and effective defense strategy. A conviction could result in the loss of your personal freedom, and you will not want to face such serious criminal allegations without a thoughtfully prepared defense plan. You may find it helpful to start with an explanation of the specific defense options available to you.