Ocean City, MD Weapons Offenses Lawyer

Skilled Defense Attorneys for Weapons Charges in Ocean City, Maryland

Crimes involving firearms or other dangerous weapons can come with drastic penalties in a court of law. If you have been accused of a weapons offense in Maryland, it is in your best interests to seek out legal representation as soon as you can. A dedicated criminal defense attorney can review your case with you and work out a strategy to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we offer serious representation and counsel to Maryland residents accused of gun crimes and other weapons offenses. Our attorneys will put up a rigorous defense on your behalf, exhausting all avenues of defense to protect your freedoms.

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

If you are convicted of a felony in Maryland, you may be denied certain freedoms, including the right to own a gun or have a firearm in your possession. A violation of this law constitutes a felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we can strategize around this charge, arguing that you did not know of the firearm in your possession or that the evidence against you was illegally seized by law enforcement.

Handgun Violations

In Maryland, you need a valid permit in order to carry, transport, or wear a firearm on your person. Even with a permit, there are still restrictions on where you can take a firearm. It is illegal to carry a handgun on school property unless you are a law enforcement officer or belong to school security. A violation of this offense is punishable as a misdemeanor, with a possible three-year prison sentence and/or a $1,000 fine.

If you are caught carrying a handgun without a valid permit, you could face a stricter sentence of up to five years in prison, with a possible mandatory minimum of 30 days.

First Degree Assault and Other Violent Crimes

The use of a firearm during an assault can escalate what was previously a misdemeanor offense to a felony. If you point a gun at someone in a threatening display, you could be charged with assault in the first degree. This is an offense punishable by up to 25 years in prison.

Lack of intent may be a possible defense against an assault charge. If you can prove that there was no willful or malicious motive behind your conduct, the charges against you could be reduced or dismissed. For instance, you might have only intended to show off a weapon without meaning to frighten anyone in the vicinity.

Additionally, brandishing a firearm during an act of rape or sexual assault will result in aggravated charges. It does not matter if the weapon is loaded, or if it is even a real gun. The victim must only hold the "reasonable belief" that it is a dangerous weapon. A conviction of this offense carries a minimum punishment of 25 years in prison, with a possible life sentence.

Meet With an Ocean City, Maryland Weapons Offenses Lawyer

If you have been accused of a weapons offense in Maryland, your freedom could be at risk. Whether you are a lawful gun owner or a convicted felon, a skilled criminal defense attorney can represent you in court and look for mitigating factors in your case.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our lawyers have decades of shared legal experience. We prepare extensively for every case, building robust strategies to achieve optimal results for our clients. When you work with us, you will receive individualized legal services to suit your needs, including legal advice and advocacy in the courtroom.

We are ready to listen to your concerns. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our offices at 410-280-2500 today or contact us online.