Gun Crime Attorney in Arizona
Arizona has a strong tradition of upholding and defending the Second Amendment and has relatively relaxed gun laws. Many residents enjoy firearms for sport, hunting, and as a hobby. However, the state of Arizona does apply some restrictions to gun ownership to protect both owners and their fellow citizens. An Arizona gun crime lawyer can explain them to you.
Many people are surprised that the State of Arizona and federal agencies that act within our state are aggressive in prosecuting cases that involve displaying or using a gun, or even buying or selling a fairly large number of them.
Most, but not all, firearm crimes are considered felonies. Gun crimes often carry mandatory jail time or prison sentences as well as costly fines. Additionally, and often most devastating, a gun crime conviction almost always results in the loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
If you are facing a weapons-related offense, you need help from an Arizona gun lawyer. Let the knowledgeable attorneys at the Grand Canyon Law Group protect your rights and reputation. We dedicate a large part of our practice to gun-related offenses and know how to obtain optimal, even under difficult circumstances.
For a free legal consultation with a gun crime lawyer serving Arizona, call 480-400-5555
CONSEQUENCES OF GUN CRIME CONVICTIONS
Arizona has established numerous classifications for crimes that determine the potential consequences upon conviction. Many gun offenses are considered “dangerous” offenses. This is a legal classification that can be added to some crimes that will turn a probation case into a “prison mandatory” offense under the law.
The minimum and maximum punishments for dangerous crimes increase with each subsequent offense. For example, under ARS 13-704, the first conviction of a Class 3 felony carries a minimum prison sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 15 years. However, subsequent offenses increase the minimum by five years for each additional conviction, with a maximum sentence of 25 years.
The factors that go into whether the government aggravates a case by adding the “dangerous” allegation can be complicated. In addition, if you have been charged with a “dangerous” crime due to a firearm being involved, do not give up hope. A knowledgeable gun attorney at our Arizona firm can further explain these gun crime laws and how we can work to remove or fight this allegation against you.
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POSSESSION RELATED GUN CRIMES IN ARIZONA
In Arizona, many crimes are based solely on a person’s possession, purchase or sale of firearms. Crimes that do not require any additional action by the defendant are known as basic gun crimes. These crimes include illegal possession, such as by someone who has lost their right to legally own firearms as a noncitizen or after a felony conviction.
Additionally, possession of banned or modified guns (such as a semiautomatic rifle with a firing pin filed down to allow fully automatic use) is also considered a basic gun crime, as is carrying a gun near a school. While the phrase “basic gun crimes” may seem innocuous, many standalone charges are felonies that carry mandatory prison time and hefty fines.
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CASES WHERE OTHER CHARGES ARE AGGRAVATED BY THE PRESENCE OF A GUN
Typically, the most severe gun crimes involve the commission of another crime while using a firearm. Generally, using a firearm while engaged in another crime is considered an aggravating factor, and this is what is discussed above when the prosecution adds the allegation that a crime is a “dangerous” offense.
An aggravating factor enhances the penalties of the original charges. For example, the consequences for stealing are much less severe than for robbing someone at gunpoint.
Aggravated assault becomes far more serious and the consequences severe when it is charged as “dangerous” because it was done with a gun or other “dangerous instrument or deadly weapon”. Aggravated assault is outlined in ARS 13 – 1204. Regardless of the original charges, anyone facing gun-related allegations should contact a skilled Arizona attorney as soon as possible to defend against serious consequences.
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WHY HIRE A GUN CRIME LAWYER?
In 2024, an estimated 1,300 people were killed using guns. That amounts to 17.3 out of 100,000 residents, significantly more than the 15.9 out of 100,000 Arizona residents killed in motor vehicle crashes per year. These homicides and suicides represent only the most serious gun crimes. Many thousands more people use guns to commit non-fatal violent crimes, and even more own illegal weapons.
Whether you simply own a gun you shouldn’t have, or you’ve used a gun in the commission of a crime, you need to hire a gun lawyer who can help you come up with an effective defense. This is particularly true if you are facing federal charges.
WHEN ARIZONA GUN CASES TURN FEDERAL (ATF / US ATTORNEY INVOLVEMENT)
You’re most likely to face federal gun charges for crimes such as weapons trafficking or if you’re in possession of a gun as a felon. Weapons tied to drug trafficking and other organized crime are also more likely to attract the attention of the ATF and other federal organizations.
Federal gun crime cases work a little differently from those prosecuted at a state level. First, you are detained. Then, you are charged. You go to court at the United States District Court rather than a local courthouse and are sentenced using harsher penalties.
FAQs
Is Arizona a Firearm-Friendly State?
Arizona is a firearm-friendly state. It has permissive gun laws, such as permitless carry for residents 21 and up, which allows adults to openly or concealed carry with no license. There is also a lack of restrictions on assault-type weapons and strong gun-rights protections. The only notable restrictions that exist are location-based, prohibiting gun possession in places like schools or businesses that serve alcohol.
What Are the Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Arizona?
The penalties for violating gun laws in Arizona depend on the law that you have violated. Most gun crimes are felonies, but they vary in severity. You can expect to face hefty fines and prison time for other violent crimes aggravated by the presence of a firearm, for example, while the penalties for simply possessing an illegal weapon may be less severe.
What Is the New Gun Law in Arizona?
There is no single new gun law in Arizona, but there is ongoing debate surrounding proposed legislation that focuses on expanding gun rights. SB 1705 strengthens state preemption over local gun laws, while other proposed legislation focuses on forcing businesses to allow patrons to concealed carry or requiring microstamping for new handguns.
Are Arizona Gun Laws Lenient?
Arizona gun laws are lenient compared to some states, but the penalties for breaking the laws that do exist are not. If you’re caught in illegal possession of a gun or using a gun in the commission of another violent crime, you could face serious consequences, including substantial fines and jail or prison time.
RETAIN AN ARIZONA GUN LAWYER FOR RELENTLESS REPRESENTATION
Compared to many states, Arizona respects the rights of gun owners. However, the consequences for violating the state’s established gun laws can be harsh, and the prosecuting agencies are not as gun-friendly as you might believe if you are ever in a position to use a firearm in any way to defend yourself.
If another crime is committed where a firearm or other dangerous instrument is used, the stakes are incredibly high, and the government is not your friend. Your freedom, your way of life, and your rights may all be stripped away if you do not vigorously defend against these charges.
An experienced Arizona gun lawyer can fight on your behalf and help you avoid a life-altering conviction. Call the Grand Canyon Law Group today to learn how we can be a valuable ally in your corner. We are former prosecutors who know how to defend our clients in gun or weapons-related charges. We can help with your gun crime case. Contact us today.
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