Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our Baltimore Lawyers Fight Your Weapons Charges
You have a constitutional right to bear arms, but those rights are subject to federal and state laws. Maryland has traditionally had some of the toughest regulations in the U.S. Maryland statutes govern such matters as the possession of guns, the issuance of handgun permits, the registration of firearms, and the purchase, manufacture and sale of assault rifles. In addition, Maryland laws increase penalties for possessing a firearm during commission of a crime.
Formed in 1980, LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton raises an effective criminal defense against all types of weapons charges. Our Maryland criminal defense lawyers protect your rights throughout the judicial process. We advise you on next steps and potential outcomes and take prompt action to secure the best possible results in your case.
Possession of a Firearm
Even if you have committed no other crime, possession without a permit is illegal. To obtain a permit, you must apply to the Maryland State Police and affirm that you:
- Are 18 years or older
- Do not have a felony conviction on your record
- Have not been convicted of a drug crime
- Do not suffer from drug or alcohol dependency
- Have a good and substantial reason to carry a handgun
If you are younger than 30, the licensing department considers your juvenile criminal record in rendering its permit decision.
Penalties When a Weapon is Used to Commit a Crime
Maryland courts are mandated to impose a sentence of incarceration for use of a handgun in the commission of a felony or violent crime. Just by having a firearm, you may have five to 20 years tacked onto your sentence for the felony or violent crime itself. Furthermore, you are not eligible for parole for five years, and the sentence is consecutive, not concurrent, meaning that you begin your prison term for the firearm violation after you have served your full sentence for the felony or violent crime. These harsh rules apply even if your gun was inoperable or unloaded.
Do Not Delay in Obtaining Experienced Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyers From LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton to Fight Your Weapons Charges
You cannot afford to wait in retaining aggressive attorneys to fight your weapons allegations. Call LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact our firm online for your free initial consultation with our dedicated Maryland criminal defense lawyers. From our Baltimore office, we effectively represent defendants in courts across Maryland.