Danville, Illinois Weapons Offenses Lawyer
Illinois has enacted numerous weapons laws to protect the public and keep guns and dangerous devices out of the hands of certain individuals. Unfortunately, with all the statutes on licensing, unlawful possession, gun-free zones, and others, there can be considerable confusion over what constitutes breaking the law. Even individuals who have never had an encounter with law enforcement could find themselves facing charges, and the penalties can be severe if you are convicted of weapons offenses.
These crimes are serious, but your situation may not seem so grim when you realize that defenses are available. Patel Law, PC will evaluate options and pursue them, and we can also assist with negotiations to resolve the charges by plea agreement. Please contact us today to speak to a Danville, Illinois weapons offenses lawyer about the specific legal concepts. We can schedule a consultation, and you may find that the below summary of the laws is also informative.
Summary of Illinois Weapons Crimes
The common usage of “weapon” incorporates almost any device or item that could be used to inflict bodily harm, and the definition under Illinois statutes is equally broad. A weapon could be a gun, knife, club, broken bottle, poison, or anything that could cause death.
Beyond clarifying what constitutes a weapon, the statutes also make certain acts unlawful:
- It is unlawful to own a firearm if you are a convicted felon, under a restraining order, a convicted domestic abuser, or otherwise prohibited.
- Possession of machine guns, short-barrel rifles or shotguns, spring guns, throwing stars, stiletto knives, and other designated dangerous weapons is illegal.
- You cannot possess a firearm or weapon in prohibited places, such as a school, government buildings, and secured areas of airports.
- It is a violation of the law to carry a concealed firearm unless you have obtained a concealed carry license.
- Discharging a firearm and brandishing a gun may constitute unlawful use of a weapon.
In addition, guns and other dangerous weapons are often implicated in other crimes, particularly aggravated offenses.
Legal Help With Weapons Charges
Some offenses are charged as misdemeanors, but subsequent convictions and certain circumstances could lead to felony charges. In some cases, you might face a Class X Felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
Patel Law, PC will assist with the criminal process from start to finish. Depending on your case, a Danville, Illinois weapons offenses attorney may focus on such strategies as:
- Contesting the prosecution’s evidence and preventing the government from proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt;
- Negotiating an agreement to resolve weapons charges through a plea agreement; and,
- Going to trial to defend the charges with evidence and witness testimony.
Reach out to a Danville, Illinois Weapons Offenses Lawyer for Details
Patel Law, PC is ready to support your rights throughout the legal process, but we are better able to serve your needs when we are involved as early on as possible. To get started on a defense strategy right away, please contact us to set up a consultation. An Illinois weapons offenses attorney can advise you on options after learning more about your case.
