Salt Lake County Weapons Charge Attorney
When Should I Call a Weapons Attorney?
What are Weapons Charges?
Utah Weapons Charge laws are complex, and the consequences can be severe. The accusation that a criminal defendant used a weapon during a crime can result not only in a Weapons Charge itself but also in an increase in the severity of other types of crimes.
For example, if a Defendant is accused of Theft of an item valued at $300, he may be charged with only a Class B Misdemeanor Theft, which has a maximum jail term of six months. However, if that same Defendant is accused of Theft of an item valued at $300, AND that he used a weapon of some kind to commit that Theft, he could be charged with a Second-Degree Felony, which has a maximum prison sentence of up to 15 years.
In addition to this augmented Theft charge, the Defendant could also be charged with other specific Weapons charges, such as Possession of a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Assault or Carrying a Concealed Weapon without a permit. Also, if the Defendant is already under a weapons restriction from a previous conviction, he can receive additional charges for Possession of a Weapon by a Restricted Person.
The definition of a “weapon,” as defined by Utah criminal statutes, is very broad. As a result, the traditional notions of what can be considered a “weapon” include much more than just guns, knives, etc. This means that often crimes that one may not think would be considered a Weapons Charge are, in fact, charged as such because they involve a certain item that the prosecution is trying to classify as a “weapon”.
Why Should I Call a Weapons Charge Attorney?
You should call a Salt Lake and Utah County weapons charge attorney immediately after being booked because they will provide guidance throughout the legal process. Weapons charges can have serious consequences, and an attorney can help you understand the specific charges against you. Your attorney will also explain the potential ramifications. A skilled attorney can also assess the evidence against you, identify any loopholes or potential defenses, and work towards reducing the charges or minimizing the punishments.
FAQs
We highly recommend exploring this FAQ section for quick answers related to weapons charge cases.
I'm facing weapons charges - What's next?
If you are facing weapons charges, the next steps involve the legal process. This may include attending court hearings and potentially going through a trial. It is crucial to consult with an attorney who specializes in domestic violence cases. They will be your guide through the legal proceedings, explain your rights, and help build a solid defense strategy. Depending on the case, possible outcomes may include dismissal, plea negotiation, or a trial.
How can weapons charges affect my future?
Weapons charges can have a significant, lasting impact on your future. Convictions for weapons charges may result in a criminal record, which can affect your employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Some weapons charges carry mandatory minimum sentences, which can lead to lengthy periods of incarceration. The severity of the charges may also impact your ability to obtain certain licenses and permits in the future. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney is crucial to understand your options and minimize the consequences of weapons charges.
What is a mandatory minimum sentence, and what consequences does it carry?
A mandatory minimum sentence is a legal requirement that mandates a minimum period of imprisonment for certain offenses. These sentences are determined by legislation and are intended to ensure that individuals convicted of specific crimes receive a predetermined minimum punishment. The consequences of a mandatory minimum sentence can be severe and far-reaching.
First and foremost, individuals who receive a mandatory minimum sentence are required to serve the full duration of that sentence, with little to no possibility of early release or parole. This means that even if the circumstances of the offense or the individual’s background warrant a more lenient punishment, the judge has no discretion to deviate from the predetermined minimum sentence.
Mandatory minimum sentences can have long-lasting effects beyond the immediate period of imprisonment. Convictions resulting in mandatory minimum sentences often lead to the creation of a criminal record. A criminal record can pose barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities, limiting the individual’s ability to rebuild their life after serving their sentence. Individuals with weapons charges may face restrictions on obtaining licenses and permits, such as a concealed carry permit or a firearm license, further impeding their ability to exercise certain rights
Individuals facing weapons charges should consult with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney right away. A knowledgeable attorney can help navigate the legal system, minimize the impact of mandatory minimum sentences for those individuals, and work toward the best possible outcomes.