A Staunch Defense Against Weapons Crimes
Weapons crimes encompass a broad range of offenses involving the illegal use, possession or distribution of firearms and other dangerous weapons. In Minnesota, these crimes are taken very seriously, with both state and federal laws imposing severe penalties on those convicted.
At Lesch Law Firm, we understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to providing a robust defense for our clients. Attorney John Lesch is committed to fighting for our clients and takes a meticulous and methodical approach to these cases.
Combatting State And Federal Weapons Charges
Weapons crimes can be prosecuted under both state and federal laws, each with its own set of penalties and legal implications. Common weapons charges include:
- Illegal Possession of a Firearm
- Gross misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $3,000.
- Felony: For prohibited individuals (e.g., felons), up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $30,000.
- Carrying a Pistol Without a Permit
- Gross misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $3,000.
- Felony: In certain cases, up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Possession on School Property
- Felony: Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
The penalties for these and other state charges can be severe, but federal charges come with even more extreme sentencing.
The Impact Of Federal Prosecution
Federal charges often result in harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and larger fines. The federal government increasingly prosecutes these cases and is even picking up more of these cases from state courts, making strong legal defense crucial.
When weapons crimes are prosecuted at the federal level, the consequences can be significantly more severe. Federal authorities have more resources and broader jurisdiction, which can result in more aggressive prosecution and higher conviction rates. This shift amplifies the importance of having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney to defend your case.
Start Building A Defense Against Your Charges
Weapons charges can have life-altering consequences. Do not navigate this challenging time alone. Call our St. Paul office at 651-393-9550 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation with our lawyer today. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin building a personalized defense strategy for you.