Conoscienti and Ledbetter: Your Weapons Charges Lawyer in Atlanta

Are you facing accusations of weapons crimes or gun-related offenses in Atlanta? You need the help of a skilled weapons charges attorney to fight these allegations. A weapons charge is serious, and it carries harsh penalties. It involves the illegal buying, selling, or distribution of a weapon or firearm. Some of these weapons include rifles, machine guns, and grenades.

A conviction may lead to consequences such as hefty fines, probation, and imprisonment. At Conoscienti and Ledbetter, we understand weapon laws in Atlanta and can defend your rights in court. We can give you a good chance at receiving a positive outcome in your case.

What Are the Types of Weapon Charges in Georgia?

There are various reasons why you may be arrested for a weapons crime in Georgia. Some of these reasons include:

• Unlawful possession of a weapon: Knowingly possessing a prohibited firearm is an offense.
• Possession of a weapon in an unauthorized place: Carrying a weapon in an unauthorized building is an offense.
• Possession of a weapon by a minor: If you are under eighteen, you cannot possess a firearm.
• Illegal use of a weapon: Even if the weapon is legal, using it in an illegal manner is an offense. For example, pointing a gun at someone in a public place.
• Assault with a weapon: Aggravated assault in Georgia with a deadly weapon is a serious offense.

Weapon charges in Georgia can lead to serious consequences, varying based on the severity of the offense. A misdemeanor weapon charge, such as carrying a concealed weapon without the proper permit, can result in penalties like fines of up to $1,000 and potential jail time of up to 12 months.

On the other hand, a felony weapon charge, like being found in possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, can have more severe repercussions. Felony weapon charges are often classified by degrees, with higher degrees carrying more substantial penalties. For instance, a felony weapon possession charge could lead to several years in prison, substantial fines, and the loss of certain rights, such as the right to vote or possess firearms in the future.

Federal weapons charges carry more severe consequences, including longer prison sentences. Gun charges also result in a criminal record, which affects several opportunities. You may lose your employability, voting rights, and certain professional opportunities.

It is important to note that you may face weapon charges together with a charge for another gun-related crime. For example, possessing a weapon in an unauthorized place after committing burglary. In these cases, it is advisable to retain the legal counsel of a burglary charge defense lawyer. With our understanding of the criminal process, we can advocate on your behalf.

You may carry a handgun in your home, vehicle, or while hunting. Nevertheless, not all public spaces allow for the carrying of weapons. Under Georgia law, the following places are off-limits, requiring authorization to carry a firearm:

• Certain mental health facilities

• Courthouses

• Government buildings

• Jail and prisons

• Places of worship

• Premises of nuclear power facilities

• Restricted areas of commercial airports and security checkpoints

• School properties and buildings

• Within 150 feet of active polling stations

Knowing the firearm rules for different public spaces is essential. Our weapons charge lawyer can help you avoid a weapons violation. We can guide you through the Georgia weapons law. We can also prevent you from facing the consequences that come with a conviction.