Gun Laws and Felony Firearm Possession

Under Michigan law, gun charges fall into two main categories:

Possession of a Concealed Weapon

In Michigan, it is unlawful to carry a concealed firearm or other “dangerous weapon.” Specifically, Michigan law makes it illegal to carry a handgun “on or about one’s person,” or concealed, or in a vehicle without a license to carry a concealed pistol. This crime is commonly referred to as carrying a concealed weapon (CCW).

Felony Firearm Possession

Michigan law makes it a felony to possess a firearm at the time of committing a crime. This charge is commonly referred to as Felony Firearm. When a crime is committed in Michigan and the accused is in possession of a firearm, state guidelines call for a minimum two year prison sentence, adding to the penalties associated with the underlying crime.

Unfortunately, overzealous prosecutors will charge an individual with a felony firearm charge under circumstances where the firearm has nothing to do with the underlying felony charge. This occurs many times in drug cases where drugs are found in a home and a firearm is located somewhere else in the home or premises.

Attorneys for Felony Firearm Possession Charges in Michigan

If you face charges for carrying a concealed weapon or a felony firearm charge, you need the aggressive, highly experienced criminal defense team of attorneys at Grabel & Associates. Our team of dedicated lawyers are committed to one goal, to do whatever is necessary to help you avoid a conviction and jail-time. Our vast experience in dealing with a variety of weapons charges will ensure you achieve the very best case results on concealed weapon and/or felony related gun charges.

When is it Legal to Purchase and Carry a Gun?

Although many guns may be considered “firearms,” hunting rifles, antique guns and BB guns are not. This means you may be able to legally purchase certain rifles and shotguns and carry them without a license. Furthermore, under most circumstances it is legal to purchase a handgun if you have a license, have no felony convictions and pass certain other criteria.

Charges for Carrying a Dangerous Weapon

In addition to charges for carrying a gun, law enforcement may bring additional charges for carrying a “dangerous weapon.” While the definition of a dangerous weapon varies, it may be applied to any object carried for the purpose of using it as a weapon for defense. Such a broad definition means that in many situations police may seek to impose enhanced penalties. Fighting back by showing you had no intent of using the object as a weapon can lead to getting the weapons charges reduced or completely dismissed.

Extensive Background and Proven Results

In addition to “dangerous weapons,” Michigan has banned certain weapons altogether, making possession of these weapons illegal. Examples include:

• bombs
• machine guns
• short-barreled shotguns
• “bludgeons”

Legal Penalties for Carrying Weapons at Certain Locations

Even if you do have a legal permit, Michigan law prohibits carrying a firearm in certain locations pursuant to MCL 28.245o. A partial list of these locations include:

• churches
• daycares
• courts
• hospitals

Individuals found carrying firearms in one of these banned locations face potential fines and jail time.

Our Lawyers Approach to Defending Michigan Gun and Weapons Charges

Our firm is recognized as one of the leading criminal defense law firms representing clients in state and federal courts throughout Michigan. In many situations, law-abiding citizens legally carry weapons on their body or in their vehicle. Despite having the requisite permits, law enforcement may be quick to arrest and file weapons charges. We understand how to contest these charges and fight to ensure you stay out of jail.

Knowledge Of Key Weapons Defense Strategies To Keep You Out Of Jail And Avoid Criminal Penalties

With years of experience helping our clients avoid jail, our attorneys understand the best strategies and defenses to help you avoid criminal penalties. Many times, by pointing out the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, Michigan gun charges may be reduced or dismissed. We will put our talent to work to prepare a compelling defense for you, based on issues such as:

• whether the weapon was loaded
• whether the weapon was operable
• whether the weapon was used for hunting
• whether the gun was an antique
• what your intent was for carrying the weapon
• location of the weapon and whether you knew it was in your possession

We invite you to read our track record of proven results for criminal defense clients charged with all types of felony and misdemeanor crimes. Our lawyers fully support the NRA (National Rifle Association) and GOA (Gun Owners of America) and strongly believe in an individual's second amendment constitutional rights to bear arms.

Wherever you are in Michigan, call us toll free, 24 hours a day at 1-800-342-7896 or contact our offices by e-mail to arrange a free consultation with trial attorney Scott Grabel today. Our gun and weapons charge attorneys are ready to provide you crucial advice concerning Michigan gun laws and will aggressively fight to protect you if you are charged with any weapons violations.