Possession of Prohibited Dangerous Weapons

Prohibited dangerous weapons are those not allowed in certain areas. For instance, it is illegal to possess certain weapons in schools, churches, and courts. These weapons are usually classified as guns, pistols, knives, daggers, stun guns, and weapons of that nature. Someone who is having issues with law enforcement officials stemming from possession of prohibited dangerous weapons should immediately speak with a Richmond gun lawyer to start building their defense.

There is a way to fight these charges. Having an attorney with experience and knowledge by your side means having a strong advocate for your defense. A dedicated defense lawyer in Richmond can work diligently to make sure consequences against you are mitigated.

What Prosecution in Richmond Needs to Prove

In order to be convicted of a possession charge, Richmond prosecution needs to show that you were in possession of the firearm and/or that you knew or should have known where it was located. Even if you claim you have no idea the gun was present, the prosecution can attempt to show constructive possession. This is when the firearm is located in an area under your control or where you knew or should have known it would be. While more difficult to prove than actual possession, which is when a person has physical possession of something on their person, constructive possession can be just as indicating when well-proven by the prosecution. Get in contact with an experienced gun lawyer in Richmond who can challenge prosecutors on their arguments regarding possession.

Penalties for Possession of Prohibited Dangerous Weapons

Possession of a prohibited dangerous weapon can result in penalties that can range anywhere from a Class 1 misdemeanor to up to a Class 4 felony. These charges can come with several months in jail up to minimum mandatory penitentiary sentences.

A person that commits assault with a dangerous weapon will be facing a felony charge. These felony charges can result in long-term penitentiary sentences causing unalterable harm to your personal and professional life. If you have a felony conviction on your record and subsequently spend time in prison, there is a huge impact on your personal and professional life. Employers will see the prior convictions in a negative light and could be dissuaded from hiring you. Additionally, there is a negative connotation associated with the knowledge that someone has been to prison, and it might make it more difficult to introduce new people into your personal life.

Contact a Richmond Lawyer Today

If accused of possession of a firearm or a prohibited weapon, you should obtain legal counsel. The punishments on such charges can result in significant jail time. In Virginia it is quite common for such charges to carry minimum mandatory sentences of two years of more. Besides jail time, those convicted of possession of prohibited dangerous weapons charge should speak with will also likely face negative repercussions on their social and private life.

Call today and schedule a consultation with a Richmond gun attorney who has experience handling these cases. Someone with experience in Richmond will be familiar with local prosecutors and may be able to use that familiarity to mitigate potential consequences.