Manassas Gun Crime Attorney
With dozens of potential gun-related crimes that you can be charged with, it’s safe to say that Virginia takes a hard stance when it comes to firearms. If you’re facing gun crime charges in Prince William County, you need an experienced Manassas gun crimes lawyer by your side.
Deeply rooted in Virginia, the criminal defense team at Morrison Brown PLC understands the complexities of firearm charges and the serious penalties that come with them. Our firm is dedicated to providing strategic, informed, and personalized defense to protect not only your rights but also your future.
Common Gun Crimes We Defend Against
At Morrison Brown PLC, we defend a wide range of gun crime cases, each with its own set of circumstances and challenges. Our experience in handling firearm-related offenses in Prince William County lets us craft targeted defenses tailored to the specifics of your case. Below are some of the most common gun crime cases we defend:
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
- Brandishing a firearm
- Possession of firearms on school property
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm
- Use of a firearm in the commission of a felony
- Self-defense cases involving firearms
- Felony firearm charges in domestic violence cases
Morrison Brown PLC provides diligent representation aimed at protecting your rights and fighting the charges against you. We take the time to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of each case, build a compelling defense, and seek the most favorable outcomes for our clients. Your future is important, and we’re here to guide you through this challenging ordeal.
Why Local Representation Matters
Having local representation isn’t just beneficial if you’re facing gun crime charges in Manassas or Prince William County; it’s critical. Morrison Brown PLC has deep roots in the community, and our attorneys understand the nuances of local law enforcement practices, local court procedures, and the unique challenges that local defendants face.
Our firm has extensive experience working with the local courts in Prince William County, including the Manassas City Courthouse and the Prince William County Circuit Court. We understand how cases are handled, the tendencies and preferences of local judges, and the prosecution’s approach when it comes to gun crimes.
This intimate familiarity helps us anticipate how your case could proceed, which strategies the prosecution might employ, and where we can potentially find weaknesses in their argument.
Not only that, but we also know how to effectively communicate with these prosecutors when it comes time to negotiate with them — an important edge to have when fighting for reduced charges, lighter sentences, or even dismissals.
A conviction can have lifelong consequences that extend beyond prison time and include a permanent criminal record that can make you ineligible for certain benefits like public housing or obtaining professional licenses. In addition, a permanent criminal record can make it difficult to find employment, block your chances of going on to third-level education, restrict your dreams of traveling internationally, and strip you of certain rights.
The consequences of a gun crime conviction don’t just end with a criminal record. Over 30% of released offenders report new or worsening depression, and the unemployment rate for formerly incarcerated individuals is 27%. These statistics paint a grim picture of life after conviction, and with 13.8 gun deaths out of every 100,000 Virginia residents in 2023, it’s no wonder that the law takes gun crimes seriously.
The reality of these statistics shows why it is important to do everything in your power to avoid a conviction. At Morrison Brown PLC, we work tirelessly to make sure our clients don’t face a lifetime of consequences because of a single mistake or an unfair charge.
We understand the local landscape, the court systems, and the intricacies of gun crime laws, and we use this knowledge to fight to achieve a favorable outcome, no matter the circumstances.
FAQs
Can I Be Charged With a Gun Crime if the Weapon Was Legally Owned by Someone Else?
Yes, in Virginia, you can still face charges even if the firearm was legally owned by another person. If you’re found in possession of the weapon without proper authorization, or if it was used in the commission of a crime, you could be prosecuted. Our lawyers can challenge the facts and protect your rights in these kinds of situations.
Are Gun Crime Convictions in Virginia Eligible for Expungement?
In Virginia, expunging a gun crime conviction is difficult. Generally, convictions for serious offenses like gun crimes aren’t eligible for expungement. However, there might be exceptions if you were wrongfully convicted or the charges were dismissed. One of our knowledgeable attorneys can assess your case to determine whether any legal routes are available to potentially clear your record.
Can Mental Health Issues Influence the Outcome of a Gun Crime Case in Virginia?
Mental health conditions, especially those that affect a person’s judgment or their ability to understand the consequences of their actions, can be a major factor in a gun crime defense. Virginia law allows for the possibility of reduced charges or penalties if mental illness can be demonstrated. The team at Morrison Brown PLC can evaluate your case and determine if this defense is right for you.
How Does the Use of a Firearm in a Crime Change Sentencing in Virginia?
A: In Virginia, using a firearm while committing a crime, like in cases of robbery or assault, can result in enhanced sentencing. The penalties are typically more serious, with mandatory minimum sentences and increased prison time. It’s important to understand how these enhancements could affect your case, which is why our attorneys can explore avenues to reduce the impact of these enhancements.
Don’t Let One Mistake Define Your Future
Whether you’re facing a felony for possession or a misdemeanor for carrying without a permit, your next move matters. A Manassas gun crimes lawyer from Morrison Brown PLC can review your case, examine your options, and help you decide the right path forward in the Prince William County court system.
