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Indianapolis Gun Charges Lawyer

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Charged with a Firearm Offense in Indianapolis, IN?

If you are facing gun charges, you need a strong defense as soon as possible. At The Criminal Defense Team, our Indianapolis gun charge lawyers have more than 90 years of collective experience in criminal matters and can help you fight your charges. We have handled thousands of cases and have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system.

Why Choose Our Gun Charge Attorney in Indianapolis?

The Criminal Defense Team boasts over 90 years of collective experience in criminal defense, ready to leverage for your case. Our adept gun charge attorneys in Indianapolis excel in tackling tough cases that might intimidate other firms. When you’re inclined to challenge a gun charge rather than capitulate, trust us to stand beside you. Arrange a consultation with The Criminal Defense Team to delve into your charges, potential repercussions, and viable defense options.

Call (317) 687-8326 or contact us online to request a free case review.

What is a Firearm Crime?

In Indiana, gun charges usually involve violations of state laws related to the possession, use, and carrying of firearms. Firearm charges in Indiana can range from minor offenses to serious felonies, each carrying its own set of penalties.

The following are the common types of gun charges in Indiana:

  • Carrying a Handgun Without a License (CHWL): It is generally illegal for criminal convicts, undocumented immigrants, the mentally institutionalized, and individuals under 18 years old to carry a handgun in public without a valid handgun license (also known as a carry permit). This offense is a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a maximum jail term of one year and a fine of no more than $5,000.
  • Possession of a Firearm by a Felon: If a person with a prior felony conviction possesses a firearm, they may be charged with this offense, which is a Level 4 felony that carries a maximum prison sentence of 12 years and fines of up to $10,000.
  • Possession of a Firearm on School Property: It is usually unlawful to possess a firearm on the property of a school, including within school buildings, without proper authorization. This offense is a Class A misdemeanor.
  • Reckless Possession of a Firearm: If someone recklessly possesses a firearm in a manner that endangers others, they might face charges. Criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon is a Level 6 felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to two-and-a-half years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
  • Straw Purchasing: This involves buying a firearm on behalf of someone who is prohibited from owning one, such as a felon. Both the purchaser and the person for whom the firearm was purchased can be charged with a Level 5 felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to six years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
  • Illegal Sale or Transfer of a Firearm: Selling or transferring a firearm without following proper legal procedures can be charged as a Level 5 felony.
  • Possession of a Firearm with an Altered Serial Number: Possessing a firearm with an altered or removed serial number can be charged as a Level 5 felony.

If you are being charged with a felony due to gun charges, don’t hesitate to contact our felony defense attorneys in Indianapolis.

We Also Defend Clients Charged with Federal Gun Crimes

Many of the same offenses that can lead to state gun crime charges are also federal offenses. The federal government also regulates the sale, use, and possession of various types of guns. 

However, federal gun charges carry with them increased complexity. Federal gun crimes are different than state gun crimes in the following essential ways:

  • Federal agencies – Federal agencies like Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) may be involved in the investigative efforts of the case. This means there could be considerably more resources that have been put in place to try to convict you than in state cases.  
  • Federal prosecutors – Federal prosecutors handle these types of cases, who often have fewer cases than state prosecutors, so they can devote more time to preparing for your case. Different procedures and courts are also involved in these prosecutions. 
  • Stiffer penalties – While the penalties for federal gun crime offenses depend on the crime charged, the defendant’s prior criminal history, and factors like whether the gun was used in connection with a drug crime, they tend to be much more severe than state crime penalties. Some also carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning that if you are found guilty of the offense, you will have to be incarcerated for a certain amount of time. They also carry higher maximum penalties. 

If you are facing federal charges, it is important that you work with an Indianapolis federal criminal defense attorney who has experience and knowledge dealing with these types of cases. The Criminal Defense Team has this experience, and you can rely on us to aggressively defend you against these charges. 

We can handle any type of federal gun crime charges, including:

  • Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Prohibited Person – Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), certain individuals are prohibited from possessing, shipping, transporting, or receiving a firearm or ammunition, including convicted felons, drug addicts, aliens, and those subject to domestic violence restraining orders. This crime is punished by up to ten years’ imprisonment.
  • Selling, Giving, or Disposing of Any Firearm or Ammunition to a Prohibited Person: Selling or transferring a firearm to a prohibited person knowing that the person is prohibited from possessing a firearm can also subject a person to up to ten years imprisonment.
  • Using, Carrying, or Possessing a Firearm in Relation to or in Furtherance of a Drug Felony or a Federal Crime of Violence – It is also illegal under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) to use, carry, or possess a firearm to commit drug trafficking or a crime of violence. This offense is punishable by at least five years up to life imprisonment.
  • Knowingly Possessing or Manufacturing Certain Types of Firearms – 18 U.S.C. § 922 prohibits possessing or manufacturing certain types of firearms, including sawed-off shotguns, destructive devices, silencers, and machine guns. This offense can result in up to five or ten years imprisonment, depending on the particular firearm involved. 
  • Firearm in a School Zone – It is also illegal under federal law to carry a firearm in a school zone, subjecting you to up to five years’ imprisonment. 
  • Stolen Firearm, Ammunition, or Explosive – 18 U.S.C. § 922 criminalizes various acts related to stolen firearms, ammunition, or explosives. This crime carries a potential penalty of up to ten years imprisonment. 
  • Engaging in the Business of Dealing in Firearms Without a License – It is illegal under 18 U.S.C. § 922(a) to import, manufacture, or deal in firearms without a proper license. This offense carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison.
  • The Armed Career Criminal Act: If you are convicted of prohibited person offenses and have a prior violent felony or serious drug conviction, you can face enhanced penalties under The Armed Career Criminal Act. You could face a minimum 15-year prison sentence if you have three prior relevant convictions.

Contact our federal criminal defense attorneys to mount an aggressive defense on your behalf.

Choose a Dedicated Indianapolis Gun Charge Lawyer

When facing firearm charges in Indiana, the stakes are high. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including incarceration, fines, and a tarnished criminal record. It’s essential to act swiftly and decisively by enlisting the help of an experienced Indianapolis gun crime lawyer from The Criminal Defense Team.

Here’s why our firm stands out:

  • Experience: Our team of seasoned Indianapolis gun crime lawyers has a deep understanding of Indiana’s firearm laws, as well as federal regulations. We have successfully handled numerous firearm cases, achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
  • Strategic Defense: We develop a customized defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. Whether it’s challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or preparing for trial, we have you covered.
  • Legal Knowledge: Our attorneys are well-versed in Indiana’s firearm statutes, ensuring that every legal avenue is explored to protect your rights and minimize potential consequences.
  • Aggressive Advocacy: We are committed to fighting tirelessly on your behalf. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome, whether that’s a reduction of charges, dismissal, or an acquittal at trial.
  • Personalized Attention: We understand that every case is unique. We provide personalized attention, keeping you informed at every stage of the legal process and answering any questions you may have.
  • Local Presence: As a trusted part of the Indianapolis community, we are familiar with local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This insight helps us navigate the legal landscape more effectively.

The Indianapolis gun charge lawyers at Criminal Defense Team is here to provide aggressive and dedicated representation for individuals charged with gun crimes. We understand the complexities of firearm laws in Indiana and are committed to protecting your rights throughout the legal process.

Contact a gun crimes lawyer in Indianapolis today at (317) 687-8326 to schedule a free initial consultation.