It’s unlawful for a convicted felon to carry any type of firearm under both Florida and federal law. Although the U.S. Code and Florida Statute share similar elements for the offense, both have different penalties and enhancements for the crime. In either scenario, facing charges for illegally possessing a firearm is incredibly serious. If convicted you could be required to pay steep fines, spend time in jail or prison, and ultimately give up your firearms.
If you or someone you know has been charged for possession of a firearm by a felon under either the federal or state jurisdiction, then it’s in your best interest to contact legal counsel. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney will give you the boost you need to fight your charges. A skilled attorney can chart out an effective defense for you that could save you from spending years behind bars. Don’t wait another moment and get in contact with quality legal counsel today.
In the United States of America, we have the right to bear arms for our protection. However, if you have been convicted as a felon then you’re likely prohibited from possessing any type of firearm. Violation of this law will mean serious penalties including fines and even incarceration.
Have you been arrested for illegal possession of a firearm by a felon at the state or federal level? If so, then it’s in your best interest to contact a weapons crimes attorney such as John Terrezza from Terrezza Law. John Terrezza can conduct an investigation to determine what the best possible defense for your case is. Call him at (850) 764-5291 to set up your first consultation free. Terrezza Law has clients throughout the greater Escambia County and Santa Rosa County area including Milton, Gulf Breeze and Pensacola.
Info Center: Federal and State Charge for Possession of Firearm by Felon
In Florida, it’s unlawful for felons to possess any type of firearm. This law can be found under the Florida Statutes Section 790.23 which states it’s unlawful to have custody, possession or control of any firearm, ammunition, electric weapon, or a concealed weapon if you have been convicted for any of the following:
Violating this law is a second-degree felony, which is punishable by:
Chapter 18 of the U.S. Code 922(g)(1) establishes it’s illegal for any person who was previously convicted of a felony to possess, ship, or transport any type of firearm. You will be charged with illegal possession of a firearm by a felon even if your previous felony conviction was under state law rather than federal court.
The U.S. Code states it’s unlawful for you to possess firearms if:
The United States Code Section 9219(a)(20) defines the existence of a felony conviction as “determined in accordance with the law of the jurisdiction in which proceedings were held.” This means that if the felony was tried in another state or U.S. territory, then the defendant would still be considered a convicted felon unless the prior was in Florida where adjudication was withheld. The consequence for possessing an illegal firearm as a convicted felon is a class D felony. The penalties for a class D felony include:
Florida Weapons & Firearms Laws – Visit the official website for the Florida Senate to learn more about their laws for weapons and firearms. Access the site to learn more about the legal process of firearms sales, what happens if you accidentally discharge a firearm, being under the influence and carrying a firearm and other related weapons matters.
Federal Laws for Illegal Carry of Firearm by Felon – Visit the official website for the Cornell Law School to read into the federal laws for felons who carry illegal weapons. Access the site to learn what happens to licensed importers, manufacturers or dealers who are selling or transporting weapons if they’re a convicted felon.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for illegally possessing a firearm because they have a felony conviction on their record, it’s in your best interest to gain legal counsel quickly. An experienced attorney can assess your case and develop a sturdy defense that will poke holes in the prosecutor’s arguments. For an attorney who is skilled at creating and implementing effective defenses, we suggest you call Terrezza Law.
John Terrezza has years of practice under his belt he can apply to your case. With his guidance, you can feel confident entering the courtroom with a strong defense. Call (850) 764-5291 and set up your first consultation free of charge. Terrezza Law has clients throughout the greater Escambia County and Santa Rosa County area in Florida.