There are numerous Minnesota statutes that punish individuals for possession of of a firearm, or otherwise prohibit conduct related to firearms.  Such statutes can involve the simple possession of a gun without the proper carrying permit or use of a weapon in connection with a crime.  For example, use of a firearm in connection with an assault , robbery, sex crime, or controlled substance offense makes the crime much more serious.   A firearm present during a crime can be the difference between a mandatory minimum prison sentence and no prison time.

Types Of Gun Crimes

 The most common gun-specific crimes charged include the following:

• Felon or other prohibited person in possession of a firearm
• Possession of a firearm during a crime, e.g., robbery or a drug crime
• Reckless discharge of a firearm
• Possession of a firearm in connection with a drug crime
• Possession of a firearm in a school or other prohibited place
• Illegal sales of firearms
• Pointing a firearm at another
• False statement on gun application
• Negligent storage of a firearm
• Alteration of serial numbers
• Carrying a gun without a permit

Each of these require a very meticulous defense.  For instance, a false statement on the gun application frequently involves the misinterpretation of the legal terms by the applicant.  Negligent storage is charged when the gun has been accessed by a minor, but you  may be able to prove that the gun was stored properly.

Carrying a handgun without a permit in Minnesota is considered a serious crime and involves the carrying of a weapon between a person’s home and a location outside of the home.  This includes carrying the weapon into a place of business, into fields, bodies of water, for hunting, and for target shooting.  Even if an individual is taking a handgun to be repaired, a permit must be obtained to take it out of the residence. Even if the gun is locked in a lock box and is unloaded, carrying it is still a crime.

Alleged illegal possession of a firearm often involves a defense focusing on where the gun was located, and who actually owned it and “possessed it” within the meaning of the law.

Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer & Attorney

If you have been accused of a Minnesota gun crime, you need a defense attorney to be by your side from start to finish.    An attorney can work for you to make sure you get the best possible outcome, which is not limited to the charges being completely dismissed.

Call criminal defense lawyer James Sheehy  at 612-341-1011 for your free consultation.   Get some peace of mind and the dedicated representation you deserve.