If you are accused of a weapons or firearms related offense in Indiana, you are facing serious fines and possibly prison time if convicted. This, no doubt, has you concerned about your future and what to do next. Now is the time to get some real advice from an experienced Indiana criminal defense lawyer.
If you were caught with an weapon illegally or used a weapon in some manner that broke the law you could be facing a felony conviction. Felony convictions have the potential to change your life forever.
We understand what you are going through and that you need the experience and skills of an aggressive defense attorney working on your behalf. We know we can help you get the results you deserve and the fair treatment you need on your day in court.
There can be many reasons that the police make serious mistakes in weapons cases. And prosecutors can be stubborn in not letting go of a weak charge if it involves a gun. But that doesn’t change the fact that, for most people, you have a legal right to possess a gun and use it responsibly.
Having handled many criminal cases in the Indiana court system, we are well equipped to deal with your case. We understand all cases are different and we’re interested in the specifics of yours. Call today to discuss your case.
Indiana Weapon and Gun Laws
Prohibited Instruments of Violence
Some weapons are illegal in and of themselves, to have in your possession at any time for any reason. This means if you are caught in possession of any of these prohibited weapons you can be charged with a criminal offense.
Possession of a switchblade is a Class B misdemeanor and carries a potential sentence of up to 180 days in jail and fines reaching $1,000. You can be charged with this offense if you are caught in possession of, sell, display, offer, or lend a knife whose blade opens automatically or may be propelled.
Sawed-off shotguns are also prohibited in Indiana. If you manufacture, import, sell, give, or possess a sawed off shotgun you could be charged. This is a Class D felony carries a potential sentence of 6 months to 3 years in prison.
Possession of a machine gun is illegal and considered a Class C felony. This offense carries a potential sentence of 2-8 years in prison.
Pointing a Firearm at Another Person – Penalties under Indiana Law
If you point a gun at someone you could be charged with this Class D felony punishable by 6 months to 3 years in prison. If the weapon was unloaded, the charge is reduced to a Class A misdemeanor and carries a potential sentence of up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 in fines.
Ref:IC 35-47-4-3
Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon
If you have previously been convicted of a serious violent felony, you cannot lawfully possess a firearm in Indiana. If caught in possession of a firearm you may be charged with this Class B felony. This offense is punishable by 6-20 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000.
Ref: IC 35-47-4-5
Other Weapons Offenses
Depending on the context, possession, use or brandishing of a weapon such as a knife can be a felony assault and battery offense.
Free Consultation on any Indiana Gun/Weapons Criminal Charge
There are a wide variety of firearm offenses under Indiana law. Some criminal charges are sentenced more severely if you had a firearm in your possession during the crime. Because you are at risk of prison time, even for a relatively minor charge that is blown out of proportion, you need an aggressive and experienced Indiana criminal defense attorney going to bat for you.
Call us to discuss your Indiana weapons charges today. The initial consultation is always free.