Fort Lauderdale, FL Federal Weapons Crimes Attorney

Lawyer for Firearm Charges Prosecuted in Federal Courts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Despite the laws allowing people in the United States to possess and use firearms, there are many situations where people may face criminal prosecution for weapons charges. Some of these cases may involve federal charges due to alleged violations of federal laws or accusations that a person used a weapon while committing another federal offense. People who are convicted of federal firearm crimes may face mandatory minimum prison sentences and other penalties. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can provide effective representation in these cases, helping to defend against a conviction or determine how penalties may be reduced.

At The Hoffman Firm, our attorney defends people in Fort Lauderdale who are facing federal firearm and weapons-related offenses. With a strong understanding of the federal laws and sentencing guidelines that apply in these cases, as well as the constitutional defenses that may be available, he can provide the representation needed to protect clients' rights and help them achieve favorable outcomes in these high-stakes cases.

Federal Charges for Possession of Firearms by Prohibited Persons

Under federal law, certain people are not allowed to possess firearms or ammunition. Alleged violations of these restrictions may lead to criminal prosecution, and convictions can result in significant prison time, especially when combined with other charges.

A person may face federal firearm charges if they are found in possession of a firearm or ammunition and fall into one of the following prohibited categories:

• People who have been convicted of felonies at the state or federal level
• People who are fleeing from justice
• People who are addicted to controlled substances or who use drugs unlawfully
• People who have been committed to a mental institution or who have been found to be mentally ill by a court
• Immigrants who are undocumented or who have entered the United States without authorization
• People who are subject to restraining orders in domestic violence cases
• People who have been convicted of domestic violence offenses, including misdemeanors

Being found in possession of a firearm under any of these circumstances can result in a 15-year federal prison sentence. Criminal charges may also apply if a person is accused of selling a firearm to a prohibited person or otherwise allowing them to possess a gun. In these cases, a person could face a sentence of up to 10 years.

Federal Firearms Trafficking and Interstate Weapons Offenses

Federal law also addresses the illegal sale, transfer, and trafficking of firearms, especially when the conduct crosses state or international lines. Charges of weapons trafficking may apply in situations involving accusations of:

• Unlicensed dealing or distribution of firearms across state lines
• Straw purchasing (buying a gun for someone who is prohibited from owning one)
• Possession or sale of unregistered firearms or explosives
• International trafficking of weapons without proper licenses
• Shipping or transporting firearms across state lines with the intent to commit a felony

In most cases, convictions on federal gun trafficking charges may lead to prison sentences of up to 15 years. The penalties may increase if the weapons that were allegedly trafficked were intended to be used in other federal crimes.

Use of Firearms in Connection With Other Federal Crimes

Possessing or using a firearm during the commission of another federal offense can lead to sentence enhancements. When a person is accused of using or carrying a firearm during crimes such as drug trafficking, bank robbery, or violent crimes like assault or kidnapping, the penalties they may face can increase significantly.

In general, possessing a firearm while committing a federal drug crime or violent crime can lead to five years being added to a person's sentence. If a person allegedly brandished a firearm during this type of offense, their sentence may be increased by up to seven years. If a firearm was allegedly discharged, the sentence may increase by 10 years. Specific types of weapons, such as short-barreled shotguns or machine guns, can also lead to sentence enhancements.

Defense Strategies for Federal Firearms Charges

Our lawyer has the experience necessary to handle high-level federal criminal cases, including those involving firearms. He can provide a comprehensive defense from the initial investigation through trial or sentencing. He will work to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, challenge unconstitutional searches or seizures, and explore all legal avenues to seek dismissal, reduced charges, or favorable plea agreements.

Some potential defense strategies that may be used in federal weapons cases may include:

• Arguing that a person did not knowingly possess a firearm
• Demonstrating that the firearm did not meet the criteria for a prohibited weapon under federal law
• Demonstrating that a person was not prohibited from possessing firearms at the time of an alleged offense
• Contesting enhancements by demonstrating that a person's possession or trafficking of a firearm was unrelated to another crime
• Exposing flaws in the chain of custody or inconsistencies in testimony by witnesses

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Federal Firearms Charges Lawyer

When defending against federal weapons charges, your rights, freedom, and future are on the line. These offenses can lead to severe penalties, which is why legal representation from an experienced attorney is essential. At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer can provide the legal help you need in complex federal weapons cases, and he will fight to protect your rights and defend against a conviction. Contact our Fort Lauderdale, FL federal weapons charges defense attorney at 954-524-4474 to set up a free consultation and begin building your defense.