Charged With A Serious Gun Crime? Call Solomon, Berschler, Campbell & Thomas, P.C. For Expert Defense.
If you are facing charges for a gun crime such as carrying a concealed weapon without a valid license in Pennsylvania, you could potentially be facing felony charges. Our team of experienced Montgomery County gun attorneys at Solomon, Berschler, Campbell & Thomas, P.C. is backed by decades of experience and is here to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
For sound counsel for your criminal defense matter, contact Solomon, Berschler, Campbell & Thomas, P.C. online or call (610) 624-2006. Our Montgomery County gun attorneys are ready to fight for you. Se habla Español.
What Is The Minimum Age To Purchase A Gun in PA?
In Pennsylvania, the minimum age to purchase a long gun (rifle, shotgun, or semi-automatic rifle) is 18, while the minimum age to purchase a handgun is 21. There is no waiting period, license or permit to purchase, or training required before or after purchasing a firearm.
Is PA An Open Carry State?
While Pennsylvania, excluding Philadelphia, is an open carry state, meaning individuals who purchase guns can carry them openly without a license, concealed carry requires a concealed carry license. To obtain this license, one must go through the county sheriff, submit an application, pay a fee, undergo a background check, and provide two non-family member references. The license is valid for 5 years and may be renewed.
Pennsylvania Gun Crimes and Penalties
People can be charged with various gun crimes, including carrying a gun without proper permits, illegally selling a firearm, using a firearm while committing a separate crime, theft of a firearm, and more. The penalties for different gun crimes vary, and the type of gun crime you are accused of will also determine the aggressiveness of the prosecution.
Below are some penalties for gun crimes in Pennsylvania:
Illegal possession or sale of a firearm:
First-degree misdemeanor charge with a fine up to $10,000 and imprisonment up to 5 years
Second-degree felony charge with a fine up to $25,000 and imprisonment up to 10 years
Carrying a gun without proper permits:
Third-degree felony charge with a fine up to $15,000 and imprisonment up to 7 years
Theft of a firearm:
Second-degree felony charge with a fine up to $25,000 and imprisonment up to 10 years
Defenses for Gun Crimes in Pennsylvania
Defending against gun crimes in Pennsylvania often involves strategic legal approaches to mitigate potential consequences. Understanding available defenses is crucial in crafting a robust defense strategy. Some common defenses include:
Lack of Knowledge or Intent: If the accused was unaware of the firearm's presence or did not intend to use it unlawfully, it could be a viable defense.
Illegal Search and Seizure: Legal challenges to how law enforcement obtained evidence, especially firearms, may result in their exclusion from court proceedings.
Self-Defense: If the accused used the firearm in self-defense or defense of others, it might be a valid defense, depending on the circumstances.
Unreliable Witness Testimony: When identification is challenging, it is possible to cast doubt on the credibility or accuracy of witness statements.
Fourth Amendment Violations: Contesting violations of Fourth Amendment rights, such as unlawful stops or arrests, can lead to the exclusion of evidence obtained during such incidents.
Navigating the complexities of gun crime defenses requires legal expertise. Consulting with an experienced Montgomery County gun attorney ensures a thorough evaluation of the case, identification of applicable defenses, and effective representation throughout legal proceedings. It's essential to tailor the defense strategy to the specific details of each case to achieve the best possible outcome.
Charged With a Gun Crime in Montgomery County? Call (610) 624-2006.
At Solomon, Berschler, Campbell & Thomas, P.C., we have served those accused of gun crimes in Montgomery County since 1975. Our gun attorneys in Norristown are well-versed in Pennsylvania gun laws and have decades of collective experience. We have obtained a track record of successful results for our clients and we are committed to providing quality legal representation. We also offer Spanish-speaking services to ensure effective communication and provide personalized attention for all of our clients. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and defending you. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a skilled Montgomery County gun lawyer at Solomon, Berschler, Campbell & Thomas, P.C.. Learn more about how we can help you with your case.
Charged with a serious gun crime in Pennsylvania? Contact Solomon, Berschler, Campbell & Thomas, P.C. online or dial (610) 624-2006 to speak with an experienced gun attorney serving Montgomery County.
Leno represented me in two separate zoning issues with the Municipality of Norristown that he handled quickly and without incident. In one instance, he represented me in court and in the other represented me in negotiations with the municipality's Solicitor. Both outcomes were to my satisfaction.
