Firearm Charges Attorney in Springfield, Massachusetts 

In Massachusetts, a person may be facing firearm charges for possessing a firearm, shotgun, or rifle without a permit or license. If convicted, the defendant could be subject to hefty fines, lengthy imprisonment, a criminal record, loss of gun ownership rights, and other life-changing implications. If you’ve been arrested and charged with an offense involving a firearm, you need to retain a highly-skilled Massachusetts criminal defense attorney to help build your defense. 

At the Law Office of Joseph M Pacella, I have devoted my career to offering experienced legal services and representing clients who have been charged with firearm violations. As your legal counsel, I will work to understand the surrounding facts of your case and build a robust defense strategy. Furthermore, I will advocate for your gun rights and represent you aggressively in every step of the legal process. 

My firm — the Law Office of Joseph M Pacella — is proud to serve clients across Springfield, Massachusetts, as well as the surrounding areas throughout Western and Central Massachusetts, including Westfield, Northampton, Palmer, and Amherst. Reach out today to request a free case consultation. 

Common Gun/Firearm Charges in Massachusetts  

A person may be facing criminal charges for violating state or local laws that regulate the possession, purchase, concealment, sale, and use of firearms, explosives, guns, and other weapons.  

According to Massachusetts legislature, it is illegal to possess a shotgun, rifle, or firearm without a license or permit. Here are some common firearm charges in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: 

• Possession of a firearm without a license 

• Possession of a sawed-off shotgun 

• Possession of a machine gun 

• Carrying a gun in a prohibited place 

• Possession of a large-capacity weapon 

• Carrying a dangerous weapon 

• Carrying a loaded firearm while under the influence 

• Unlawful possession of a firearm or ammunition 

If you or someone you know has been arrested or indicted for firearm violations, you need to reach out to a practiced criminal defense lawyer straightaway. Your legal counsel can fully explain the nature and seriousness of your firearm charges and help determine your best defenses. 

What Qualifies as a “Firearm?”  

Under Massachusetts law, a firearm involves a stun gun, revolver, pistol, or other weapons of any description, whether unloaded or loaded, from which a shot or bullet can be discharged. Also, the length of the barrel must be less than 16 or 18 inches. 

Owning/Carrying a Gun in Massachusetts  

The following are the requirements to own or carry a gun in Massachusetts: 

• You must be at least 18 years to own a rifle or shotgun and at least 21 years to purchase a handgun. 

• You must undergo an interview at the local police department. 

• You must pass a comprehensive background check by local law enforcement and the FBI. 

• You must not be on the “prohibited person” list from Federal Law. 

Who Cannot Carry a Gun?  

According to state and federal laws, a person is generally prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or using a firearm if: 

• They have been convicted of certain criminal offenses. 

• They are subject to certain court orders in connection with a domestic violence case. 

• They have serious mental conditions. 

• They have been convicted of domestic violence crime. 

• They are an illegal user of controlled substances. 

• They are a fugitive from justice. 

• They were discharged from the armed forces under disreputable circumstances. 

• They are in the United States unlawfully. 

An experienced Massachusetts firearm defense attorney can enlighten you about the penalties and consequences of unlawful possession or carrying of a firearm. You can trust me to build your best defense strategy. 

Possible Penalties for Firearm Charges 

In Massachusetts, unlawfully possessing, selling, or using firearms may result in serious criminal charges. If convicted, the defendant may face any of these penalties and consequences: 

• Substantial fines and court fees. 

• Prison sentences (ranging from months, years, or decades) 

• Probation 

• Community service 

• A criminal record/history 

• Prohibited from obtaining a license to acquire or carry a firearm 

• Loss of the right to vote during elections 

• Increased difficulty in getting a new job, scholarship, and accommodation. 

• Increased difficulty in traveling abroad 

• Ineligible to own a legal handgun or shotgun 

• Ineligible to obtain certain financial loans 

• Increased difficulty in getting public benefits 

A dependable lawyer can step in quickly and take proactive actions to build your defense and help you avoid the devastating penalties and consequences of a firearm violation conviction. 

How Legal Counsel Can Help  

Defending your firearm violation charges without skilled representation could increase your risks of getting convicted and suffering the maximum penalties. Unfortunately, a criminal conviction or record could jeopardize your quality of life, reputation, career, and future. Therefore, when facing firearm charges, hiring a seasoned criminal defense attorney is paramount for detailed guidance and to help determine your best defenses. 

At the Law Office of Joseph M Pacella, I have the experience and knowledge to defend and represent clients in their firearm violation cases. As your attorney, I can investigate all of the facts of your unique situation and dispute the accusations against you with overwhelming facts and evidence. In addition, I will guide you through the Massachusetts criminal justice system, fight aggressively to uphold your rights, and strive to keep your record clean.