Sacramento Federal Firearms Charge Lawyer

If you have been charged with a federal firearms offense or placed under investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) or any other federal law enforcement agency, you could be facing serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines and a criminal record.

At the Law Office of Thomas A. Johnson, we help clients throughout Northern California fight these serious criminal accusations. Sacramento federal firearms charge attorney Thomas A. Johnson has the experience and resources to aggressively protect our clients’ rights in federal court.

If you have been accused of illegally possessing, selling or using a firearm, you could be facing charges in federal court, where penalties are stiffer and procedures less flexible than in state court. Our firm defends clients against all types of firearms charges, including the following:

• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon: Most felony convictions require you to surrender all your firearms. Being caught with a gun in your possession, whether you own it or not, and whether or not you are using it for any illegal activity is a crime.
• Use of a firearm in the commission of a crime: This is an aggravating factor in several crimes, such as robbery, that can increase the severity of the charge against you and, therefore, the level of punishment you would face if convicted.
• Trafficking in firearms without authorization
• Possession of an unregistered firearm

Federal weapons charges are felonies that carry potential prison time if you are convicted or plead guilty. These charges often carry mandatory minimum sentencing requirements and other sentencing guidelines, so you are likely to be sent to prison for years.

Beyond the years of your life spent behind bars, a conviction can affect your life profoundly once you get released. For example, your conviction will show up on a criminal background check, which could affect your ability to get a job, go to college or simply find a decent place to live. You could also be banned from owning or possessing a gun ever again. This is why you should never take a weapons charge lightly or be too quick to accept a plea offer from the prosecutor.

Our founding attorney, Thomas A. Johnson, is a former federal prosecutor who understands the federal justice system. We will carefully investigate the facts of your case, negotiate with law enforcement, and challenge the prosecutors’ evidence and reasoning in court, if necessary.

Federal Firearms Charges FAQ

It is natural to feel confused about what you have been charged with. Here are some general answers to common questions our clients have about weapons charges.

What is the difference between state and federal weapons charges?

While there is overlap between criminal laws regarding guns in California law and the federal level, federal criminal laws tend to involve more serious activity and carry harsher punishments. Also, federal charges are handled in federal court, and not every criminal defense attorney in the Sacramento area is licensed to practice in federal court.

How could a weapons charge conviction affect my future job prospects?

Many, if not most, employers conduct a criminal background check before offering a job to an applicant. A conviction on a weapons charge could make a potential employer change their mind about offering you a job. Careers that involve security clearance or handling firearms could be especially hard to break into. Thus, your options could be limited to lower-paying work with limited prospects for advancement.

What can I do to support a family member charged with a weapons crime?

Being charged with a serious felony can make you feel frightened and alone. The best thing you can do is show your loved one that you are there with them. Emotional support can go a long way during this time.

Northern California Gun And Weapons Violation Attorney · 916-248-8598

If you are accused of being a felon in possession, using a firearm to commit a felony or any other federal firearms offense, you need an experienced federal defense lawyer on your side. Do not hesitate to contact our office at 916-248-8598 or by email to schedule a consultation.