Columbus Weapons Offense Attorney
Aggressive Defense Law Firm for Weapons Charges
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, our attorneys have handled a variety of criminal cases for more than 15 years. We have represented a number of clients facing weapons charges and we are well educated in the tactics used by the prosecution in building cases, having served as prosecutors in the past.
Contact the professionals at The Meranda Law Firm LTD today to schedule a consultation with a Columbus weapons offense attorney.
The Ohio Revised Code, Title [29] Chapter 2923: Conspiracy, Attempt and Complicity; Weapons Control; Corrupt Activity explains the laws concerning weapons. It lays out in detail the many elements of weapons violations and definitions of weapons control in Section 2923.11. In essence, a deadly weapon is:
"Any instrument, device, or thing capable of inflicting death, and designed or specifically adapted for use as a weapon, or possessed, carried, or used as a weapon."
Code violations related to the use or concealment of weapons is a serious crime. Illegal sales and weapons trafficking are major crimes, often filed in federal court.
Common Weapons
Firearms are the most used weapons and that category includes any type of handgun, semi-automatic, sawed-off firearm, zip gun and others. Added to the weapons list is any type of explosive device, incendiary device, dangerous ordnance, or ballistic knife. It is a significant offense to carry or have at hand any of these weapons in a school safety zone or to use them while intoxicated.
Penalties for Weapons Offenses
It is a violation to carry a concealed weapon unless you are in possession of a proper and valid current license allowing that for your job or some other reason. A person cannot have a concealed dangerous ordnance, handgun, or any other of the deadly weapons described in the criminal codes. If a police officer stops you and you have a concealed weapon on you or ready at hand, you must tell the officer and keep your hands in clear sight at all times. Weapons offenses are usually as follows:
- 1st degree misdemeanor, up to 6 months in jail and maximum $1,000 fines
- 4th degree felony – 6-18 months in prison and maximum $5,000 fines
An offense can quickly escalate from a 1st degree misdemeanor to a 4th degree felony depending on specific circumstances. It is a 3rd degree felony to have a concealed weapon on an aircraft. Criminal charges can increase drastically if it is alleged that the weapon caused the death of another individual, or caused substantial bodily harm, or during an armed robbery.
Weapons offense cases are often complicated. Our Columbus weapon defense lawyers can provide information to you about your available options. Contact us today to schedule a free & confidential initial case evaluation.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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He is a very good lawyer and always knows what he is talking about. He knows his stuff and no matter how bad the crime is he will get you out of it and he will always give you his all.- Jenna Taynor
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We are very appreciative of the efforts put forth by Zach Meranda. The outcome was positive and he made us feel secure in an out of control situation. Felt glad to have him defending us and having his common sense approach to our case. We would recommend his services to anyone in need.- Anonymous
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I could not have asked for a better attorney than Mr. Meranda. He was very professional and yet made sure that I was comfortable and understood everything about my case. I am so grateful to have been referred to his office! I highly recommend his office as his rates are affordable, he is very honest, and he is very knowledgeable.- Anonymous
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Professional, upfront, attentive, most of all comforting in the fact that the communication was clear. Never a doubt by always respectful. Admired the standard in which the company, more so Zach, displayed. I was so impressed and would if needed use his services again.- Anonymous
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There are three reasons I recommend Zachuary Meranda if you are arrested for DUI. First off, he is a straight shooter. Never did he sugar coat my situation. Second, he handled everything while keeping me informed and walked me through everything as it progressed. Third, he got me the result- NO DUI!!! Thanks Zak!- Shane Dolen
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A criminal case can be very stressful. The Meranda Law Firm can help you with this process. Zack is there to make sure that you get the best personal one on one help you can get. So you don't get pushed around in the system. Takes all the worry out of your case. Very down to earth guy. Easy to talk too. Without Zack I don't know where I would be right now. Thanks Zack; can't tell you how much I appreciate the help you gave me. If you are looking for a lawyer that can take the stress out of your case Zack is your guy- Jeff w
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Mr. Meranda does his research! He is very professional and promotes himself and law firm in a great manner. He digs to find the facts and will work hard for you. He makes sure you understand what you are facing and will try to come to the best outcome possible. He is easy to talk to and he tells you “like it is.” He is an upfront, affordable lawyer. I highly recommend The Meranda Law Firm to anyone who is seeking help.- Anonymous
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I would give The Meranda Law Firm a 10 out of 10 for the pre-case advice, the genuine concern about his client, and the time and effort that was put into the case from beginning to the end. If there is anytime in the future I would need an attorney Zach has earned my business. Thank you Mr. Meranda for all that you covered and all that you helped me with.- Andrew
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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Should I be worried if I am innocent?The short answer to this question is yes. Our legal system, though endowed with powerful rights and time-tested procedures, is far from perfect. Proclaiming yourself innocent is far from a legal defense, and you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney to gather information and refute evidence. It is a sad fact that innocent people are sometimes convicted of crimes they did not commit. If you have been arrested, a team member from The Meranda Law Firm LTD, serving both Columbus and Newark, can go to immediate work on constructing a strong defense and on seeking to have unfounded charges dropped.
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What important legal rights am I entitled to?If you find yourself crossways with the law, you have important rights that must be protected. First, you have the right to be informed of your rights by police should you be arrested. You have the right to remain silent, which can help you avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to avoid subjection to an unreasonable search and seizure. Perhaps most importantly is your right to an attorney, and should you face criminal investigation or arrest, you should be in immediate contact with a Columbus criminal defense attorney for knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel.
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Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?When you are facing a criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, your future stands at serious risk. Not only do you face the prospect of jail time, fines, and probation, but if you are convicted you will also carry with you a permanent criminal record that can make such things as obtaining employment, educational opportunities and housing problematic. A lawyer can make sure that your legal rights are well-protected and that a strong defense is mounted on your behalf. Going it alone in the criminal justice system can put you in peril of many unwanted consequences.
