Chester County Gun Charges

In Chester County, Pennsylvania, like most of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, gun charges are treated very severely in order to protect society. Guns are often seen as violent objects that often lead to more serious crimes. As a result, the courts tend to hand down significant sentences for firearms in the hands of convicted felons.

If you find yourself facing these charges, it is essential to reach out to a Chester County gun lawyer as soon as possible. Such a lawyer will be able to guide and advise you as you navigate the often complex legal system, fighting the charges and working to mitigate the damages.

The objective of the courts is to reduce the number of gun crimes committed by those unauthorized to have guns while at the same promoting individuals’ rights to carry or have a right to carry. Therefore, when dealing with individuals who should not be carrying guns, such as those individuals who do not have licenses, they treat those cases with the highest level of scrutiny and often sentence individuals convicted of such crimes to the highest extent of the law. For example, a first-time gun offense alone can carry as high as three and a half to seven years incarceration and a $15,000.00 fine.

Common Firearm Offenses

In Chester County, the most common gun offenses include but are not limited to:

  • Murder
  • Robbery
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Carjacking

Those are among the most severe crimes that a person often can be charged with in conjunction with the possession of an illegal firearm. When a felony is committed with a firearm, an individual faces much more severe penalties and additional incarceration and/or fines.

Aggravating Factors

When a crime is committed involving a firearm, an individual may also be charged with the underlying crime, such as robbery, and face more severe penalties because a firearm is being used.

In fact, Chester County like the rest of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has sentencing guidelines which become increasingly more severe in circumstances involving the use of a firearm. As a result, an individual who would already be facing already significant charges could be facing an additional 60 months of incarceration should they be convicted of possessing or using a firearm in the commission of a crime.

Local Ordinances

In Chester County, Pennsylvania, gun offenses have been consolidated with the rules that govern the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Thus, an individual seeking a gun carry permit in must follow the general regulations applicable to the entire state. These regulations require that, in order to even apply for a general license to carry, a person must:

  • Have no prior record
  • Have no mental health issues
  • Have no drug and alcohol issues
  • Take a firearms training permit class

While local ordinances exist, it is the statewide law that contains the most thorough explanation of the charges that firearms can carry. For instance, it is a crime for an individual without a license to carry a concealed firearm or a firearm within their vehicle without such license. The charge is enumerated under 61-06 or the Pennsylvania Crimes Code Act, and carries a maximum penalty of three and a half to seven years of  incarceration, as well as a $15,000.00 fine. In addition, the charge is categorized as a felony of the third degree.

Attain A Gun Lawyer

Due to the severity of the charges and potential outcomes, if a person is the subject of a police investigation that involves a firearm and such investigation becomes a criminal act and they do not have a license to carry, it is essential that they reach out and obtain the services of an experienced Chester County criminal defense lawyer. There are many legal benefits to attaining a gun lawyer. They can ensure your rights are being protected and advocated on your behalf.

Chester County has strict laws regarding firearm use. The penalties for gun offenses can be serious. It is imperative that you consult a local attorney who can mitigate on your behalf, review the evidence, and compile a strong defense.