Get Answers.  Get Results. Criminal Law, DUI, Family Law, Divorce – (205) 737-4696

Get Answers. Get Results. Criminal Law, DUI, Family Law, Divorce – (205) 737-4696

TRAVIS T. JUNEAU

Gun Laws and Gun Charges
Alabama Criminal Defense Lawyer

Alabama as a state is known as a strong defender of the 2nd amendment. There are laws in place which guarantee law-abiding citizens plentiful rights when it comes to gun and weapon ownership. However, this does not mean that the state is not tough on those that violate gun laws. There are a number of restrictions that if ignored can lead to jail time, fines, and a felony record. 

Generally, the types of offenses that categorize a gun charge deal with possession, concealment, and the right to actually own a gun. However, being in possession of a weapon is an enhancement for many felony charges. What does this mean? If someone is charged with assault, their charge can be enhanced if the prosecutor argues they had a weapon on them or used that weapon.

Attorney Travis Juneau has the necessary experience and drive to help you fight these charges. If you are located in Tuscaloosa, Northport, Demopolis, Greensboro, or anywhere in Alabama contact our team today. With the right defense, you can fight these charges and avoid the worst consequences. 

First Time Felony Gun Charge in Alabama

There are a number of felony gun offenses in Alabama. A felony, generally, is any charge that carries with it more than a year of potential imprisonment. Here are some of the most common firearm offenses:

Scratched Off Serial Number on Gun

Alabama Criminal Code 13A-11-64 defines changing, altering, removing, or obliterating a weapon’s serial number (or identifying mark) as a Class C Felony. This law also prohibits the selling or transporting of such altered weapons. A Class C Felony in Alabama can be punished by up to 10 years of prison. 

Firing Into An Occupied Building

Firing into a building (home, building, or structure) and it is occupied can be charged as a Class B Felony. That means up to 20 years of imprisonment and up to a $30,000 fine. 

Possession of a Short-Barreled Shotgun

Knowingly possessing a shotgun with a barrel less than 18 inches long is a Class C Felony. 

Unlawfully Carrying A Firearm

It’s illegal in the state of Alabama to carry a firearm inside a police station, prison, jail, or detention facility, inside a courthouse, inside any facility hosting a sporting event sponsored by an elementary or secondary education institution.

If I have a felony can I carry a gun in Alabama?

AL Code 13A-11-72 prohibits certain people from owning firearms.A firearm is defined as a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder.  Violating this section can mean a prison term of up to 5 years for a first offense. What does this section of Alabama law prohibit? 

Federal law prohibits all indicted and convicted felons of owning any sort of firearm or gun. This prohibition applies to those with a misdemeanor domestic violence charge on their record too. 

Alabama law is much narrower. In Alabama, you must be convicted of a violent crime in order to be prohibited from owning firearms. Violent crimes listed Section 12-25-32(15) include Murder, Assault, Kidnapping, Rape, and other serious charges. Drug crimes also exclude a person from owning a firearm. 

It’s important to understand that while the state laws are more narrow a person can still face federal charges for illegal firearm possession. These charges also tend to carry much heavier consequences. A federal prosecution must prove that the gun in your possession originated outside of the state,  that it has crossed state lines, or was somehow connected to interstate commerce. They must also prove that the weapon was indeed in your possession. An ex-convict can also not cross state lines with a firearm or ammunition.

Alabama Gun Crimes Criminal Defense Lawyer

Travis Juneau knows what it takes to successfully defend you. A criminal defense attorney is highly recommended if you want to avoid the worst consequences. Gun charges can leave costly, damaging, and lasting effects on a person’s future. Don’t let a gun charge ruin yours. Contact us today.