Criminal defense lawyer Brad Shuttleworth of Shuttleworth Law P.C. presents the second article in a four-part series on dealing with gun charges in New Jersey.
The consequences of an unlawful weapons possession charge in New Jersey extend far beyond the courtroom. These charges are felonies and can cause serious problems in your life. Therefore, getting experienced legal help is important to handle this complicated situation.
The unlawful weapons possession attorneys at Shuttleworth Law can provide you with a free consultation about your case. A consultation with a criminal defense lawyer will educate you about your criminal charges and how to secure good legal representation. In fact, you should educate yourself as much as possible regarding your criminal charges. Keep reading this article to thoroughly examine the possible outcomes you could face, including the Graves Act.
Felony Conviction and Its Ramifications
A conviction for unlawful weapons possession in New Jersey is serious — it will significantly impact your life. Beyond just the legal consequences, being labeled a felon can create lasting challenges in other areas of your life. The non-legal consequences of a criminal conviction are called collateral consequences. The conviction can make it difficult to find a job. It can make it difficult to find a place to live. It may even affect some of your civil rights. A criminal conviction is public information, which anyone can see just by looking on the Internet.
Financial Penalties
The court can impose substantial financial penalties on individuals found guilty of unlawful weapons possession charges. Fines are decided based on factors like the severity of the offense and the defendant’s criminal record. They add more pressure to an already tough legal situation. As the financial burden grows, the effects of a conviction reach beyond the courtroom. This affects a person’s financial stability and well-being.
Probationary Period
Some people convicted of unlawful weapons possession might have to serve probation. Although it may seem like some freedom, probation comes with strict rules and duties. Following the court’s orders and a probation officer’s directions is important. It means checking in with a probation officer regularly, staying out of trouble, submitting to drug tests, and finishing community service. If you break any of these rules, a court can send you to prison.
Forfeiture and Restrictions on Firearm Ownership
Having a conviction for illegal weapons possession can mean you will need to surrender the guns you currently own and that you’re not allowed to have guns in the future. This could mean you can’t get a permit to buy a gun or to carry one. These restrictions are tough for people who enjoy guns or need them for protection. You will feel vulnerable and like you lost your freedoms if this happens.
Mandatory Counseling or Education Programs
If the court convicts you of unlawful possession of a weapon, the court may order you to go to counseling or classes as part of your punishment. These programs aim to help you understand why you did what you did and learn how to avoid doing it again in the future.
Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders
If you’ve been in trouble for weapons before, the consequences will become more serious. You could end up with longer a longer prison sentence, bigger fines, and more scrutiny from the court.
Because the consequences of these crimes are serious and complicated, you have to have a good lawyer on your side. A skilled criminal defense lawyer, like those at Shuttleworth Law, can explain your rights, look at your legal options, and reduce the impact the charges will have on your life. Don’t wait —reach out today to protect your future.
The Impact of the Graves Act: Mandatory Minimums
Along with the consequences mentioned above, people charged with unlawful weapons possession in New Jersey must contend with the Graves Act. The Graves Act is at N.J.S.A. 2C:43-6 of the New Jersey Criminal Code. Enacted to combat gun-related crimes, the Graves Act imposes long mandatory-minimum sentences for certain firearms offenses.
Peole convicted under the Graves Act face the strict penalties of lengthy prison sentences without the possibility of parole, probation, or early release. The mandatory minimum sentence for an offender under the Graves Act is 42 months or one-third to one-half of their sentence, whichever is greater, before being eligible for parole. This is serious business, and judges don’t even have the ability to impose a shorter sentence when the Graves Act applies.
The Graves Act applies to a range of firearms offenses, including unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose, and certain firearms-related offenses committed during the commission of other crimes. The severity of the penalties imposed under the Graves Act underscores the importance of seeking skilled legal representation when facing weapons possession charges in New Jersey.
Navigating the complexities of the legal system and mounting a vigorous defense against Graves Act charges requires the expertise of an experienced criminal defense attorney. With a thorough understanding of New Jersey’s criminal laws and extensive courtroom experience, a skilled attorney can develop a strategic defense tailored to the specifics of your case.
We Are Criminal Defense Lawyers That Will Protect You!
Don’t wait until it’s too late — contact the team at Shuttleworth Law today to protect your rights and defend against unlawful weapons possession charges in New Jersey. We advocate for you in court, and we are skilled negotiators against prosecutors. As knowledgeable attorneys, we can make the difference in the outcome of your case. Your freedom and future are too important to risk.
The criminal defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law P.C. have knowledge of the relevant criminal laws and procedures involved in your case. That knowledge and preparation will give you the best possible defense. We carefully review case facts, analyze the evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Get your Free Case Evaluation now by calling 888-529-3486, or by messaging us confidentially online. Our legal team can meet with you in person or via secure video conferencing. Our clients love how easy we make the process.
