Facing weapons charges in Tennessee can be daunting. These offenses often carry steep penalties, ranging from fines to serious prison sentences. If you’ve been accused of a weapons crime in Nashville, you need skilled and dependable defense in your corner. The Law Offices of Amanda J. Gentry understands the complexities of Tennessee’s weapons laws and is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for your freedom.
What Qualifies as a Weapons Offense in Tennessee?
Weapons offenses cover a wide range of criminal acts involving guns, knives, and other potentially dangerous tools. Tennessee law imposes strict regulations on how weapons can be carried, used, and owned. Violating these laws could lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Common types of weapons charges:
- Illegally carrying a concealed weapon
- Unlawfully selling or distributing firearms
- Discharging a weapon in public or near an occupied building
- Brandishing a firearm to threaten or intimidate
- Carrying a weapon into restricted areas like airports or schools
- Committing aggravated assault or battery with a deadly weapon
- Possessing firearms as a convicted felon
If you’ve been arrested for a weapons charge, securing legal representation as soon as possible is crucial. A skilled Nashville criminal defense attorney will be able to examine the specifics of your case while determining the best strategies to use at trial.
Prohibited Weapons Under Tennessee Law
Tennessee law prohibits the possession, manufacture, sale, or transport of certain weapons deemed excessively dangerous. Examples of prohibited weapons include:
- Explosives (e.g., grenades, bombs, or mines)
- Machine guns
- Short-barreled rifles and shotguns
- Switchblade knives or blades longer than four inches
- Brass knuckles
- Silencers
- Improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
Unlawful possession charges often occur when individuals knowingly carry firearms or other weapons in situations that violate state laws. Examples of unlawful possession include carrying a gun while consuming alcohol in a public setting or possessing a firearm despite being a convicted felon.
Penalties for unlawful possession in Nashville:
- Class A Misdemeanor: Possessing a firearm while consuming alcohol; up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
- Class E Felony: Reckless endangerment or unlawfully carrying a weapon with specific intent; punishable by 1-6 years in prison and up to $3,000 in fines.
- Class B Felony: Using or intending to use a firearm during the commission of another felony; punishable by 8-30 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
For convicted felons, simply possessing a firearm is a serious offense. Tennessee regards this as a Class C Felony, punishable by 3-15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Restrictions for Convicted Felons in Tennessee
State law bans individuals convicted of violent crimes or certain drug-related felonies from possessing firearms. A violation of these conditions escalates the severity of charges, often resulting in harsher sentencing.
Legal Defense Strategies for Felons Charged With Possession
When facing charges for unlawful possession, several defenses may apply. For example, you may have been acting in self-defense or protecting another person from harm. The Law Offices of Amanda J. Gentry will work to uncover facts that could serve as a defense or mitigate the charges against you. When facing weapons charges, it’s crucial to have an attorney ensure that your Fourth Amendment rights against unlawful search and seizure are not violated. Amanda Gentry will examine police protocols to determine if they acted legally during their investigation.
How a Nashville Weapons Offenses Attorney Can Help
Weapons charges are serious. Without strong legal representation, you risk losing not just your freedom but also your ability to own firearms in the future. The Law Offices of Amanda J. Gentry offers thorough legal guidance tailored to your case. We will:
- Analyze the facts to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Advocate for the dismissal or reduction of charges
- Represent you in negotiations or court proceedings
- Protect your constitutional rights throughout the process
Schedule a Consultation With Amanda J. Gentry Today
Whatever weapons offense you’re charged with, you don’t have to face it alone. Amanda Gentry is a dedicated Nashville weapons offenses attorney with the experience and determination to take on tough cases. Reach out to the Law Offices of Amanda J. Gentry today to schedule your consultation. Your future is too important to risk. Don’t wait. Take action to protect your rights now.
