Experienced La Porte Gun And Weapons Charges Defense Attorneys
Being charged with an illegal gun, firearm or weapons violation can have devastating consequences on your life. At Rodriguez Law Firm, Inc., our experienced criminal defense lawyers, Mladenka Rodriguez and Frank Rodriguez, provide aggressive representation to protect your rights and future when facing these serious allegations in Northwest Indiana.
Highlighted Case Result
Dismissed – FELONY – STATE V. A.D.
Aggravated Battery, as a Level 3 Felony; Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon, as a Level 5 Felony; Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun, as a Level 5 Felony
What’s At Stake With Gun/Firearms/Weapons Offenses
Indiana strictly prohibits the unlawful possession, sale, distribution or use of firearms, ammunition and other deadly weapons. Misdemeanor offenses can result in up to one year in jail, while felony charges carry potential prison sentences of six months to six years, depending on the circumstances. You may also face hefty fines, probation and a permanent criminal record.
The First Steps After A Gun Or Weapons Arrest
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a gun or weapons crime, the first crucial step is to invoke your right to legal counsel and avoid making any statements to law enforcement. Even seemingly innocuous comments can be misconstrued to incriminate you. If you call Rodriguez Law Firm, Inc., our defense team can step in from the very start to begin planning your criminal defense strategy.
Ensuring Lawful Weapons Searches And Evidence Collection
Law enforcement must follow strict protocols when searching properties, vehicles and individuals for weapons. Our attorneys will fight to protect your constitutional rights against unreasonable searches and seizures. We examine every aspect of how evidence was obtained and recovered to identify potential violations.
The Impact Of Your Criminal Record On Weapons Cases
Those with previous weapons convictions or other offenses – such as felonies or violent crimes – often face enhanced, harsher penalties. We advocate for having past records expunged or sealed when possible to mitigate future impacts. Our goal is to pursue the most favorable resolution.
Indiana Gun Charges FAQs
Below, we have answered the most commonly asked questions regarding gun and firearms charges.
What are the most common gun or weapon charges in Indiana?
In Indiana, common weapons-related charges include:
- Unlawful possession of a firearm, especially by felons or prohibited persons
- Carrying a firearm without a license prior to the permitless carry law
- Bringing a gun into a school or government building
- Possessing a weapon during the commission of a felony
- Improper transfer or sale of a firearm
Our firearm defense lawyer can review your case and explain your legal options.
How severe are the penalties for a gun or weapons violation in Indiana?
Penalties for gun and weapons offenses in Indiana depend on the nature of the charge, your criminal history and whether the violation falls under state or federal law.
- Unlawful possession by a felon is a Level 5 felony, punishable by one to six years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Carrying a handgun without a license before Indiana’s permitless carry law was charged as a Class A misdemeanor (up to one year in jail).
- Possessing a firearm on school property or in restricted areas can be a Level 6 felony, with up to 2.5 years in prison.
- Using a gun during a violent crime, like robbery or aggravated battery, can elevate the charge and sentence, often adding years to a prison term.
- Federal charges for gun trafficking, possession by certain prohibited individuals or crossing state lines with illegal weapons can lead to 10-plus years in federal prison.
Some offenses may qualify for expungement, but felonies involving violence or federal gun convictions are excluded.
Can I still be charged with a gun crime even if I have an Indiana handgun license?
Yes. Having an Indiana handgun license does not protect you from all charges. You can still face arrest if you violate gun laws, such as carrying in a restricted area, using the weapon unlawfully or being in possession while under the influence.
Even those who lawfully carry may be accused of a crime if law enforcement believes self-defense does not apply.
Let Former Prosecutors Handle Your Indiana Weapons Charge Defense
Don’t let gun or weapons charges derail your life. Contact the criminal defense lawyers at Rodriguez Law Firm, Inc. immediately by calling 219-444-4322 or sending us an email to arrange a confidential case evaluation. As former prosecutors in LaPorte County, we know how to counter the opposition’s tactics. We defend clients throughout Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties.
