Defense Against High-Stakes Firearms And Gun Charges In Bucks County

Pennsylvania imposes serious penalties for many firearm and weapon offenses. A conviction can mean substantial fines, significant prison time and losing the ability to legally possess a firearm. If you are facing firearm charges in Doylestown, understanding the charges and potential penalties early can help you make informed decisions about your defense.

At the Law Offices of John J. Fioravanti Jr., our defense lawyer has decades of experience handling serious criminal charges. Attorney John J. Fioravanti Jr. has defended clients since 1979, representing people charged with everything from misdemeanors to federal felonies. He brings that experience to firearm cases while providing aggressive representation with discretion and respect.

Serious Gun Violations That Carry Mandatory And Severe Sentences

Pennsylvania law addresses several serious firearm and weapons offenses. The charges and potential penalties depend on the alleged conduct, your criminal history and the weapon involved.

Serious offenses can include:

• Persons not to possess firearms (18 Pa.C.S. § 6105): Certain people, including some individuals with qualifying felony convictions or other circumstances that prohibit firearm possession, may face charges for possessing a firearm. In some circumstances, the offense can be a second-degree felony with significant prison exposure.
• Firearms carried without a license (18 Pa.C.S. § 6106): Carrying a firearm or gun in a vehicle or carrying one concealed without a valid license can constitute a third-degree felony. Whether this charge applies depends on the circumstances of the case.
• Possession or use of a firearm during a crime: Some Pennsylvania offenses carry a minimum prison sentence when a firearm is involved. This can apply to certain violent crimes and drug offenses and can substantially increase the amount of prison time you could face.
• Prohibited offensive weapons (18 Pa.C.S. § 908): Pennsylvania also prohibits possession of certain weapons and devices, including machine guns, sawed-off shotguns and firearms specially made or modified to make it easier to conceal or discharge silently.
• Straw purchases and illegal firearm transfers: A straw purchase generally involves buying a firearm for someone else who cannot lawfully buy or possess it. Pennsylvania law requires firearm purchasers to identify whether they are the actual buyer. Knowingly making an illegal transfer can result in a third-degree felony.

The specific circumstances of a firearm allegation can have a significant effect on the case. We examine the evidence and conduct prosecutors attribute to you to determine what they must prove.

The Impact Of Firearm Sentencing Enhancements In Pennsylvania

A firearm allegation can lead to more prison time for an underlying criminal charge. For example, certain drug offenses involving possession of a firearm can carry a mandatory minimum sentence. Similar rules can apply to certain violent crimes involving a firearm. When these rules apply, the potential prison sentence can increase significantly.

The impact can also continue after a sentence. A felony conviction can restrict your ability to possess firearms and may create challenges with employment and housing.

We also examine whether the evidence supports the firearm allegation and whether prosecutors can prove their case.

How Strategic Defense Can Protect Your Freedom

A criminal charge is not a conviction. The prosecution still has to prove its case, and the evidence behind the firearm allegation deserves careful examination. We begin by looking at the evidence against you and the circumstances that led to the arrest.

Challenging Unlawful Stops, Searches And Warrants

We can challenge evidence obtained through an unlawful stop, search or warrant. Constitutional protections under the Fourth Amendment limit unreasonable searches and seizures by police. If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights, the court may exclude evidence from the case.

Challenging Claims That You Possessed The Firearm

We examine whether the prosecution can establish that you possessed the firearm. This can be especially important when police find a gun in a shared vehicle, home or room and claim that it belonged to you even though it was not found directly on you. This type of claim is sometimes called constructive possession.

Reviewing Licensing And Transportation Issues

We review whether you had the required license, whether a license from another state may be recognized in Pennsylvania and whether an exception allowed you to transport the firearm. These issues can be important when prosecutors claim that you carried or transported a firearm unlawfully.

Protect Your Rights After A Firearm Charge

A firearm case can affect your freedom, firearm rights and future. An early review of your case can help you understand the charges, assess the evidence and determine what options may be available for your defense.

At the Law Offices of John J. Fioravanti Jr., we will examine the circumstances surrounding your charge and help you understand your options. If you are facing firearm charges or need a gun lawyer in Bucks County, call 1-215-348-9133 or submit an online inquiry to discuss your case with attorney Fioravanti and learn what steps you can take to protect your rights.