Columbus Gun Charge Defense Attorney
Experienced Gun Charge Lawyer serving Franklin County, OH
You may unintentionally break the law and face criminal gun charges if you allow your permit to carry a concealed weapon expire, or you forget to lock your gun case and a child gains possession of the weapon. A firearm is a deadly weapon that is capable of shooting projectiles regardless of whether it is unloaded or temporarily inoperable. That includes any rifle, pistol or portable gun, automatic or semi-automatic rifle or a sawed-off shotgun. A zip gun or crude firearm, a starter's pistol or a safety device like a flare gun are also in the category of deadly weapons. Ohio has strict gun laws and if you are in violation, you need to speak with a Columbus gun charge defense lawyer from The Meranda Law Firm LTD immediately, as penalties can mean jail or prison, fines and a criminal record.
To speak with our experienced Columbus gun charge defense lawyers, give us a call at (614) 707-4239 or contact us online today.
Unlawful Firearms Use
There are laws in place to control the use of guns so people avoid hurting themselves and others. If one knowingly engages in illegal gun use, the offenses can range from a misdemeanor to a major felony. Carrying a concealed firearm without a proper permit and improperly handling a firearm in a motor vehicle are both violations of state law. Selling, buying or otherwise transacting or being in unlawful possession of a firearm are criminal activities and made worse if a gun is provided to a minor. The use of a gun or any firearm while intoxicated is a violation.
Convicted felons cannot possess or use a firearm and if caught, the individual may face a charge of a felony in the 3rd degree. The improper discharge of a firearm near or over a public roadway, at or near a cemetery, or into an occupied structure also violates gun laws. If one knowingly fires a gun within 1,000 feet of a school or safety zone and the act causes a panic and evacuation of the grounds, the violator will probably face serious charges.
Penalties for Gun Offenses in Ohio
Most cases for unlawful use of firearms are a misdemeanor charge. For a minor misdemeanor it is a maximum fine of $150. A 4th to 1st degree minor penalties can mean a maximum 180 days in jail, and fines up to $1,000. Felonies in the 5th degree to 1st degree can carry a sentence of 6 months to 10 years in prison, and fines from $2,500 to $20,000.
Understanding Your Rights: The Importance of Legal Representation
Facing gun charges can be a daunting experience, and understanding your rights is crucial. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, we believe that informed clients are empowered clients. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through the complexities of gun laws in Ohio and ensure that you are fully aware of your legal options.
Here are some key points to consider about your rights when facing gun charges:
- Right to Legal Counsel: You have the right to an attorney who can advocate on your behalf and help navigate the legal system.
- Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions from law enforcement without your lawyer present.
- Understanding Plea Options: A skilled attorney can help you understand the potential outcomes of your case and negotiate plea deals if applicable.
- Challenge Evidence: Your lawyer can challenge the legality of the evidence gathered against you, potentially leading to reduced charges or dismissal.
- Protecting Your Future: A strong defense can prevent a gun charge from impacting your future employment, housing, and personal life.
Our experienced attorneys at The Meranda Law Firm LTD are committed to providing personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation. Don't face gun charges alone—contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your rights.
Why Choose The Meranda Law Firm for Your Gun Charge Defense?
When facing gun charges in Columbus, having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney is crucial. The Meranda Law Firm is dedicated to providing personalized legal representation tailored to your unique situation. Our team understands the complexities of gun laws in Ohio and is committed to advocating for your rights every step of the way.
Here are some reasons why clients choose us:
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully defended numerous clients against gun charges, achieving favorable outcomes through negotiation and trial.
- In-Depth Legal Knowledge: Our attorneys stay updated on the latest changes in gun laws and regulations, ensuring that you receive informed legal counsel.
- Personalized Approach: We take the time to understand your case and build a defense strategy that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
- Compassionate Support: We recognize that facing legal challenges can be stressful. Our team provides compassionate guidance and support throughout the legal process.
- Free Initial Consultation: We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case, answer your questions, and outline your options.
Don't leave your future to chance. Contact The Meranda Law Firm today to schedule your free consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of your gun charge defense.
Our Columbus criminal attorneys can explain what charges for a gun offense can mean to your future. Contact The Meranda Law Firm LTD online or call (614) 707-4239 today.
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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I am very happy with The Meranda Law Firm. I hired Mr. Meranda to help me with a case and i am very pleased with the outcome. I would recommend him to everybody he's a very good lawyer.- Kristina Poulton
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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
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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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Zach Meranda was a real attorney with a no bull shit strategy!!! But he won my criminal case even when the odds were against me and I thank him and his associates!!- Pfeifer
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I have nothing but good things to say about Meranda Law Firm, more so Zack. He was a very professional attorney. Made sure that I knew what was going on and that I understood everything. He seemed to be very involved in the case doing what he could to get the best results. Most importantly Zach always made me feel comfortable and was very good about communicating with me. I would recommend The Meranda Law Firm to anyone needing legal advice or any legal help.- Alexandria Trejo
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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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Zach is incredibly professional and will work as hard as he can for you, no matter how big or small your case is. He shows genuine concern and interest in his client and the situation. He is straight forward and honest. Zach was the third attorney on my case and the only one that actually took the time to become familiar with my case. He was not intimidated as my previous attorneys were and his competency resulted in my case ending in a very satisfying outcome.- Rylan Burrie
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Zach did a great job representing me. He worked hard to take care of me in my case. If I ever need a lawyer again, I'll definitely give him a call first.- Rod
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.